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In truth, thegarter tossis probably only about 75 years old.

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Photo: Minnesota Historical Society / Getty Images

The double ring ceremony was also not a given until the 1940s.

So, without further ado, we present you with the real history of the garter toss.

What is a garter toss?

He either ducks under her dress or hikes it up the hem to reveal the garter shes wearing.

What is a garter made out of?

They may have intricate embellishments that incorporate pearls, rosettes, rouches, sparkles, or atouch of blue.

Where did the garter toss tradition come from?

However fun, the evidence for this particular origin story is virtually non-existent.

The visual struck a chord with the general public, and the garter toss was born.

By the1960s, though, it was already being described as a tradition in bridal magazines.

What does a garter symbolize?

The garter is said to signify the brides deflowering.

Historically, couples were expected to consummate their marriage immediately.

This act held not just personal significance but political weight.

Is the garter toss outdated today?

Both the garter toss and bouquet toss do contain some rather dated assumptions.

However, as with all wedding decisions, the choice is totally personal.

For anyone who loves all the classic wedding rituals, the garter toss can be a fun spectacle.

In the oppression of women, tradition has often been the last defense of the indefensible.

After all, if we have learned anything, it is that we must make our own traditions!

Take its burlesque origins and run with it!

(I did mine to Charli XCXs Girl, So Confusing.)

Call all the kids onto the floor and toss a toy.

Call animal lovers to the floor and toss a stuffed animal.

Call forth anyone with a sweet tooth and toss candy.