How did the whole ‘matching dresses for bridesmaids’ tradition come about? Well, it dates back to ancient times in Rome and China when brides needed stunt doubles to confuse rival suitors or kidnappers who might see the wedding party as it traveled. Many thought that evil spirits were involved in these heinous acts and tried to baffle the perpetrators. In fact, it was most common for the bridesmaids to be identical to each other and the bride herself. It was even a protective law in Rome at one point.
These rules were also employed in the Victoria era, where bridesmaids wore matching white dresses just like the bride. Queen Victoria herself took part in this tradition.
These days, bridesmaids are rarely seen matching the bride, but still follow the rule of matching with one another. It makes for nice photos, and an ‘old habits die hard’ approach to that big day of matrimony for the masses.
Source: www.rd.com/culture/history-of-bridesmaids-weddings
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