"Something blue" tradition

Did you ever wonder where the Bridal tradition
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a lucky sixpence for her shoe

came from?

Well, lots of people do. This cute poem is an old tradition dating back to the Victorian Age. Many of the Wedding traditions we embrace today, including the popularity of the Bridal trousseau, emerged in this very romantic Era. Each item mentioned in this poem is meant to be a good luck token for the Bride. And who doesn't want a little luck? If she carries them on her Wedding day then her marriage will be happy. The vast majority of my customers definitely follow this tradition and have quite a few options when selecting the "something blue" portion of this poem. I will explain what each line represents and then give a few good ideas for getting the "lucky" items you need. (Antique Victorian Bride photo courtesy of: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3249/2678307006_e54002eae0.jpg)

First let's start with the "Something old". These words symbolize CONTINUITY with the Bride's family and past. Some beautiful ideas for this include a cherished piece of jewelry from Grandma, a bonnet from the Bride's Christening day, a keepsake hankie from Mom's Wedding day or an antique piece of lace stitched into the hem of her gown.

"Something new" represents OPTIMISM and HOPE for the Bride's future and what lies ahead for her. Now speaking from a woman's point of view, aren't we always optimistic when buying something new? That is certainly true and can be easily achieved through the new purchase of a Wedding gown, a gorgeous pair of sparkly earrings and bracelet (pictured left, courtesy of A Beautiful Touch), fabulous high heels (courtesy of something old, something new blog) or something very sweet and sentimental. The list goes on and on...

The "something borrowed" portion of this poem is supposed to be obtained through a happily married relative or friend, whose good fortune in marriage hopefully will carry over to the Bride. Many of "my" Brides find this to be the most challenging aspect of this traditional poem, I think because of style differences or preferences. They often borrow a pretty purse, a small piece of antique jewelry or a sentimental item such as a small family heirloom that has emotional value to the Bride.

Now, as for the "something blue" item of this poem, the color blue has been connected to Weddings far before the Victorian Age. In ancient Rome, Brides wore blue to represent LOVE, FIDELITY and MODESTY. This calming hue has also been chosen by early Christians to dress the Virgin Mary. Therefore, PURITY, is also associated with this color. And this last fact, which I find very interesting, is that before the late 19th century, blue was a popular color for Wedding gowns. Think about this proverb, "Marry in blue, lover be true".

The modern Bride can be extremely creative with finding her "something blue". There are plenty of contemporary and trendy, as well as traditional items to choose from. We carry many personalized options, such as silk and cotton panties (pictured above and sold in our Boutique), embroidered lace hankies and


monogrammed "dress tags" that are stitched in blue thread and secured to the hem of the Bride's gown. Also, if you want to show your individuality, choose the blue crystal "i do" shoe appliques (pictured above and sold in our Boutique), or a blue stoned bracelet (pictured above left and sold in our Boutique), toe ring or ankle bracelet. Or possibly a blue Swarovski crystal pin that you can fasten to your dress or bouquet (we carry all of these items in our boutique). Additionally, you can select a beautiful lace garter and coordinating hankie that is embellished with a petite blue ribbon. The only thing that limits you is your imagination!!

And finally, a silver sixpence in the bride's shoe represents WEALTH and FINANCIAL SECURITY. A sixpence was a coin that was minted in Britain from 1551 to 1697. Back in Scottish custom, a groom put a silver coin under his foot for good luck. It should be in the LEFT shoe for the best possible luck! Today, a copper penny is sometimes substituted, although we do sell the sixpence.

So there you have it! The tradition of the cute little poem that we have all grown up to know and love but wondered what does it mean? Now you know, so you can start collecting your good luck tokens!!!