Monday 29th February (otherwise known as a "leap day") is traditionally the one day that women can pop the question to their male suitors. Whilst many women wouldn't dream of proposing, this unconventional idea is becoming more socially accepted. Read on to find out more about the history behind this tradition and find out how many women are planning to pop the question on 29th February!
Why should women propose on this date?
This tradition supposedly stems from the 5th century when St. Brigid complained to St. Patrick about having to wait too long for men to propose. St. Patrick finally declared that women could pop the question on this one day during a leap year. But remember, if you are planning to pop the question - women are traditionally expected to either wear breeches or a scarlet petticoat whilst proposing.
But don't worry ladies, if your man turns you down then tradition dictates that he should pay a penalty. That's one new gown, money or 12 pairs of gloves coming directly your way (so tradition dictates!).
Are British women planning to propose on 29th February?
Q Hotels carried out an interesting survey about Leap Year proposals! In their survey they found that women proposing has become more socially accepted and 90% of men would say yes to such a proposal. However, only 0.5% of women were actually planning to propose on 29th Feb.
What do men think about leap day proposals?
- Only 1% of men deemed women popping the question as totally unacceptable.
- 10% said they would feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
- 80% of British men would say yes without hesitation to a leap day proposal.
- The majority of men seem to have accepted the modern idea of women proposing - after all, it saves them the stress of planning a perfect proposal!
- When it comes to popping the question, it was men who showed their romantic side. Their biggest concern was creating the right setting and occasion.
What do women think about leap day proposals?
- It was interesting to see that women were less comfortable with the idea of proposing than men.
- 67% of women thought it was completely acceptable for a woman to propose.
- A further 23% thought it was fine, but would never do it.
- Only 0.5% of women are planning to propose on 29th February 2016.
- When it comes to popping the question, the biggest concern for women was getting the right ring.
What do you think?
We'd love to know what you think of a leap day proposal and whether or not you'd pop the question. If you're already engaged - Would you have ever considered popping the question? What do you think your partner would have said? What would have been your biggest concern?
Let us know on Facebook or Twitter what you think!
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