Veil is one of the oldest wedding symbols. For all peoples of the world, the veil performed a protective function, protecting the bride from unkind and envious glances. In addition, the snow-white veil is a symbol of the bride's chastity.
The ancient meaning of veils
Veil as one of the most important wedding symbols appeared in the ancient world. However, it took a long time to acquire the traditional white color. In ancient Greece, brides wore a yellow veil, in ancient Rome - red. But the length of the veil in different countries was about the same - it almost covered the figure of the bride from head to toe. At the same time, it was believed that the longer the veil, the longer and happier the family life of young spouses will be.
At the end of the wedding ceremony, the veil was solemnly removed from the bride, which meant her transition from parental authority to her husband. However, there were also brides with an independent character who shed their veils themselves, thus demonstrating their desire for equality with their spouses.
Initially, the veil was sewn from a dense, opaque fabric so that it completely covered the bride's face not only from prying eyes, but also from the eyes of the groom. Only later they began to sew it from transparent fabrics and lace, so as not to hide, but to emphasize the beauty of the bride. Since the white color of the veil is a symbol of chastity, it is not recommended for a woman who is not getting married for the first time. The veil acquired its modern look by the middle of the eighteenth century and since then has undergone only minor changes.
Flowers in wedding symbols
Sometimes, instead of a veil, the bride's hairstyle is decorated with flowers. The main symbol of love among flowers, of course, is the rose. According to ancient Greek mythology, the rose appeared in the world together with the goddess of love Aphrodite. She was born from light snow-white foam, which was covered with the body of the goddess when she came ashore from the sea waters. The Olympian gods were enchanted by the beautiful flower and sprayed it with nectar, which gave the rose its wonderful scent.
Ancient Greek brides adorned their hairstyles with stalks of grass, symbolizing loyalty to their future spouse. If the bride chose an ivy wreath, it meant mad love for the groom. And, of course, the most traditional wedding flower is orange blossom. True, few people know that this tradition came from Spain, where orange blossom buds have been considered the personification of purity and innocence since ancient times.
Today, flowers in a wedding wreath and a light transparent veil no longer carry such a deep symbolic meaning as in past centuries. Rather, they are a spectacular addition to the wedding dress, highlighting the beauty and grace of the bride.
