As The World Weds: Global Wedding Traditions

But although Marriage be Common to all the Nations in the World, yet it is not regulated by the same Laws, nor celebrated in the same Forms and Ceremonies, they varying according to the diversity of Religions and Nations. (p 3) -- Louis de Gaya. . London, 1685.Nuptial rites, Or the Several Marriage Ceremonies Practiced amongst all the Nations in the World

Over 300 years ago Louis de Gaya noted the variety in wedding customs around the world, a diversity which has continued ever since. Many of these traditions focus around clothing and textiles. The concept of tradition suggests timeliness and resistance to change, but the rituals and practices surrounding weddings have changed over time as much as they have differed across space. The practice of the bride wearing a white dress exclusively worn for the wedding ceremony has its origins in Europe in the nineteenth century. By the twentieth century…