Wedding Traditions Explained: Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue

Wedding Traditions Explained: Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue

We’ve all heard the saying “something old, something new, something borrowed & something blue” when referring to a bride’s wedding day attire. However, does anyone know where this saying came from and what the meaning behind it is? We have to say that we did not, and did a little research to find the meaning behind this classic wedding tradition.

Photo Credit: Jessica Cochran Photography

This wedding tradition dates back to England in 1898. The original saying actually went “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a silver sixpence in her shoe,” however the last part is more commonly dropped from the rhyme. A bride is supposed to wear something to represent each part of the rhyme to have good luck in her marriage. Something old is symbolic of a bride’s relationship with her family. Something new is a wish for a bride’s good fortune in her new life. Something borrowed is a reminder that family and friends will be there for the bride if she needs help. Something blue symbolizes loyalty in a bride’s new marriage. A silver sixpence in her shoe is meant to give the bride wealth in her new life.

Photo Credit: Skyryder Photography

Many brides today still honor this wedding tradition by wearing something to symbolize each portion of the rhyme. Something old might mean wearing a piece of jewelry from a family member or wearing her mother’s wedding veil. Something new is usually symbolized by the bride’s wedding dress or shoes as these are typically new to the bride. For something borrowed, many brides will borrow jewelry or a hair pin from friends or family members. Finding something blue can be tricky, but many bride’s complete this one by wearing a blue garter or having their seamstress sew their wedding date or a message in blue thread onto the inside of their wedding dress. For those following the complete tradition, a silver sixpence is exactly that, putting this coin inside a bride’s wedding shoe. If you are looking for a professional, reliable and affordable services on your jewelry to clients in the Brisbane CBD area, visit www.cbdwatchrepairs.com.au for more information.

Photo Credit: Sarah Janes Photography

We have insight on more wedding traditions. Take a look at our blog here!