When people think
about ivory, they may think about pure and kind, which is also the represent
for the image of a flower girl. In the middle ages, many people were poor and
did not practice good hygiene. Many people only bathed once a year, and the use
of floral sachets to cover body odor was routine. During a special occasion
like a wedding, the young girls would spread the fragrant petals of roses,
lilac and other strongly scented flowers on the ground. As the petals were
crushed by people walking upon them, they would release their powerful aroma,
leaving behind a pleasant scent that was far more preferable to the natural
odors of the guests and participants.
The Victorian era
ushered in many changes that you will still see today. With an emphasis on
romance, the Victorians began dressing the flower girls in gowns to match the
bride. The use of garlands of flowers encircling their hair became fashionable
during this time, as well as the use more ornamental flowers throughout the
ceremony. Satin sashes and sweet romantic touches adorned the flower girl, who
in turn brought good luck and joy to the bride and groom. This tradition
remains today.
Most cultures have
incorporated the use of flower girls in one way or another. Many traditions
call for the flower girl to wear a white dress as a beacon of purity and
innocence. Some cultures prefer
brighter, more robust prints as a sign of growth and bright, new beginnings.
The one common factor is they all carry or wear flowers. In the western
culture, we have become accustomed to the ritual of tossing flower petals on
the path of the bride. Elsewhere, the flower girl may wear a ring of flowers in
her hair or as a garland around her neck.
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