What is the meaning of the wedding tradition

“something old, something new,

something borrowed and something blue?”

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue

This wedding tradition comes from an old English rhyme “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.” It describes the four items the bride adds to her wedding outfit or carries on her wedding day as tokens of good luck.  You shouldn’t stress too much about them — they are the little tokens of love your mother, sister, other relatives, and your bride tribe will give you as the wedding approaches. However, don’t be afraid to provide any or all of the items yourself.  Here’s a quick breakdown of what each means:

Something Old

represents continuity

Something Old Something New Wedding Tradition

photo credit: Andy Delisle

consider adding a charm or locket containing a photo of loved ones to your bouquet

Something New

offers optimism for the future

Something Old Something New Wedding Tradition

photo credit: Etsy

many brides opt to have their engagement and/or wedding ring symbolize something new

Something Borrowed

symbolizes borrowed happiness

Something Old Something New Wedding Tradition

photo credit: Walker Goldsmiths

your something borrowed may be a family heirloom such as jewelry 

Something Blue

stands for purity, love, and fidelity

Something Old Something New Wedding Tradition

To purchase Etsy:

you can get creative with this one – from jewelry to shoes to garters – the options are endless

Sixpence in Your Shoe

is a wish for good fortune and prosperity

 (largely a British custom; American’s use a penny)

Something Old Something New Wedding Tradition

photo credit: White Tree Photography