The tradition of “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” for a bride on her wedding day is a tradition that dates back a long time. However, not many of us even know where it originated and why we do it. The tradition is kept up as it is said to bring luck and prosperity to the married couple with the bride wearing something old, new, borrowed and blue, with a sixpence in her shoe.
Whilst most brides like to incorporate the tradition somewhere in their wedding outfit, it’s not something to get stressed about. It’s best to happen upon items that fit the bill rather than go hunting for the ‘perfect’ things. They are supposed to be little tokens of affection given to you by a mother, sister, grandmother or any other relative as the wedding day approaches.
Recent twists on the tradition also include grooms getting in on the act by donning blue ties or borrowing an item, like their father’s cufflinks for example. Bridesmaids can also choose to wear something blue and act as personification of the ‘something blue’. There really is no limit to your imagination on this one. The something old could be a family photograph displayed at the reception in your Hotel Wedding Venue in Gloucester. The something new could be a shiny, posh car to collect after the ceremony. Don’t feel you have to be limited by what you incorporate into your outfit.
Here’s is an explanation for what they different items symbolise:
Something Old
In the past, wearing something old was seen as a way of warding off the Evil Eye and receive protection for future children of the couple. The Evil Eye was said to affect the fertility of the bride. In more recent times, the old item represents continuity and family generations. It’s an opportunity to wear an heirloom, a piece of jewellery or clothing from an older relative.
Something New
Having something new on your person represents the excitement and optimism for the future as the couple enter a new phase of life together. Don’t try too hard, as the new thing can be literally anything, such as your wedding dress, shoes, lipstick or even underwear! It can be bought by you for yourself or a gift. It could even be the decorations on display at your chosen Wedding Venue.
Something Borrowed
The idea of having something borrowed is meant to bring good luck. Ideally, the borrowed item should be from a happily married relative or friend in the hope that the good luck rubs off on the newly married couple. In the past, the superstition encouraged the bride to borrow the underwear of a happily married relative or friend with healthy children. Thankfully, we don’t share undies anymore and the tradition is more about honouring a loved one by wearing something of sentimental value.
Something Blue
This was originally another item designed to keep the Evil Eye away. Blue represents purity, fidelity and love – which are said to be the three most important qualities in a marriage. Most brides choose to wear a garter under their dress that contains a touch of blue, but you can incorporate this colour in any way you want. Why not sprinkle a touch of delicate blue flowers into your bridal bouquet for example?
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