No matter how modern a wedding you’re planning, we’re sure there’s one tradition you’ll be adhering to:
Something old, something new, Something borrowed, something blue And a sixpence in her shoe.
Even though the English lyric originated in Victorian times, its instruction had been followed for centuries beforehand.
Each of the poem’s five components are said to be lucky and legend has it that by carrying them, the bride will have a happy marriage. Today most brides tend to skip the sixpence but still carry something old, new, borrowed and blue. This is a fun tradition that every bride can partake in regardless of their beliefs or superstitions. Something old represents a link of continuity from the bride’s past, especially her family, as she becomes a wife. Normally the bride is given something to wear by her mother or grandmother – a family heirloom such as a locket or brooch fits the bill perfectly.
Hope and optimism for the new union is signified by something new. A large part of a bride’s outfit tends to be new, especially the gown. Typically brides obtain their something borrowed from a happily married female relative or friend, the idea being that their happiness will passed on to the new bride. Raiding your best friend’s jewellery box for a timeless piece to wear for the day. Since ancient Rome, the blue hue has been linked to weddings as a symbol of love and loyalty. The possibilities for incorporating something blue into your outfit are endless, as are the different shades you can choose from.