Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue… This English wedding tradition began in the Victorian era. Each item in this poem represents a good-luck token for the bride. If she carries all of them on her wedding day, her marriage is said to be happy and long.
“Something old” symbolizes the connection to the bride’s family and the past, along with the family’s traditions. A special piece of jewelry, like a ring or a locket, which can be worn or attached to the bouquet, are lovely. Also, an old handkerchief to be carried around the stems of the bouquet, or even the bride’s mother’s wedding dress are other ways to incorporate “old” on the wedding day.
“Something new” symbolizes hope and success for the bride’s new life ahead. New items are plentiful for weddings! Often, the bride will consider her gown as her “something new,” but the list can be quite long, so pick anything!
“Something borrowed” is usually an item from a happily married friend or family member, whose good fortune in marriage is supposed to carry over to the new bride. The borrowed item also reminds the bride that she can depend on her friends and family. This is a great way to include special touches while allowing family and friends to help with your wedding day. Borrowing a pettiskirt, veil, hairclip or earrings are some suggestions for ways to share.
“Something blue” symbolizes faithfulness, fidelity and love. Blue has been connected to weddings for centuries., from ancient Rome to modern times. Before the late 19th century, blue was even a popular color for wedding gowns. You can a have a lot of fun with using blue: undergarments, garter, shoes, jewelry, handkerchief, flowers, or even toenail polish!
“And a silver sixpence in her shoe” represents wealth and financial security. For optimum fortune, the sixpence should be in the left shoe. These days, a dime or a copper penny is sometimes substituted, and many companies sell keepsake sixpences for weddings.
The most important part of this, or any, tradition is to personalize it and AND FUN!