We can thank Victorian brides from the 1800’s in Lancashire for the tradition of a bride including something old, new, borrowed and blue. Which all was symbolic for a wish for “good luck” in the new marriage.
The original poem included a last line, largely dropped today, of placing a coin in the bride’s shoe as a wish for luck with finances for the new couple.
Something old,
something new,
something borrowed,
something blue,
and a sixpence in her shoe.
The original idea was that the bride would carry her past into her marriage, embrace the new, carry the good luck of a friend or family member who loaned her what historically was an undergarment from a woman who had had a child and a blue item from a mother.
Today the Old, New, Borrowed and Blue are not about hopes for fertility, but about continuity of past, future friends and good luck. And the idea of any discomfort of storing money in the bride’s shoes has fallen by the wayside.
Here are a few ideas for each category:
Something old: This could be a family heirloom, such as a piece of jewelry or a handkerchief. It could also be an item that holds sentimental value to the bride, such as a piece of clothing or accessory that she has worn or used for a significant event in the past.
Something new: This could be anything that the bride will use on her wedding day that is new to her, such as her wedding dress or accessories.
Something borrowed: This could be something borrowed from a close friend or family member, such as a piece of jewelry or a handkerchief. The idea is that the borrowed item will bring good luck to the bride.
Something blue: This could be a blue item that the bride will wear or carry on her wedding day, such as a blue ribbon or a blue piece of jewelry. Blue is often associated with fidelity and loyalty, making it a popular choice for this category.
Remember, these items are optional and are included as a fun tradition for the bride to participate in if she wishes. The most important thing is for the bride to feel happy, confident, and comfortable on her special day.