Married in white, you've chosen all right

Married in grey, you'll go far away

Married in black, you'll wish yourself back

This traditional rhyme from New England reminds us that there are many superstitions surrounding the bridal gown, but in fact the floor-length wedding dress is a comparatively new tradition developed mainly in the 20th century.

In the 19th century and before, the bride wore the best she or her father could afford, and the gown was then expected to do as Sunday best.

In the 18th century, it was fashionable among the more wealthy members of society to wear gowns of ivory, cream or gold, but white was considered an unflattering shade to the majority of women's complexions.

The veil has an impressive history. It dates back to Roman times when a huge, all-enveloping veil of bright yellow was thrown over the bride to symbolise both mystery and modesty.

In fact it was probably designed to hide the uglier brides from the view of their future husbands who probably had not seen the object of a generally arranged marriage who might otherwise and turned tail and run from the ceremony.

Today the veil is merely another traditional appendage. The fabric choice is just as fraught with dangers.

Satin is supposed to be unlucky, white velvet promises poverty, cotton, wool and synthetics are neutral and acceptable and silk is thought to bring great fortune.

The gown should not be completely finished until the day of the wedding, usually a tiny length of hem is left unsewn until the wedding morning.

It is also a tradition for the maker of the dress to sew a single hair from her head into the hem. This is thought to bring luck to the wearer and maker.

A bride should not make her own gown. She should never try on the complete bridal outfit before the wedding day.

Seeing herself fully dressed in a mirror is considered bad luck, and she should never be seen in her gown by the groom until he meets her at the ceremony. To spill blood on a wedding gown is thought to be the worst luck of all.

Wearing something old, new, borrowed and blue is one of those customs that has long been obeyed. It is rich in symbolism. The something old indicates the continuance of the family line - in other words a fruitful union!

Something borrowed means the bride will never be without friends to call upon in times of trouble.

And the something new promises good fortune and sufficient wealth for the happy couple to be always able to afford what they need.