Something old, something new… A popular wedding tradition

Something old something new something borrowed something blue…

One wedding tradition that the majority of brides seem happy to keep with on their big day. Apparently it’s a tradition that dates back to Victorian times, and it’s a little bit fun. Not being terribly superstitious myself, I’m quite sure that nothing terrible will happen to you if you don’t do it, but it is a great way of incorporating memories into your wedding day look, as well as something a bit different or perhaps even a surprise for hubby to be…

Something old

Apparently this is supposed to represent the bride’s family and the family of the past, particularly on the maternal side. Brides often choose to wear some family jewellery like earrings or even their mum’s tiara or veil. A great opportunity to bring that all-important vintage twist. Nicola Harvey on our facebook page is wearing a pair of earrings that her late dad bought her mum before he passed away.

Something new

As well as representing good luck (and who doesn’t need a bit of that in life?), the something new is intended to give the bride a bright future and hope in her new married life. Of course your dress would be the most obvious choice – in fact, this is probably the easiest thing to get right, but how about being a bit innovative like making something new from something old – like a vintage button or jewellery bouquet? Debbie Carlisle is one of our favourite jewellery bouquet artists.

Something borrowed

Representing those who are close to you, the people who are there for you now and always, the borrowed bit is best coming from a happily married friend or relative (the meaning being that they are ‘lending’ you some of her happiness). The bit you might not know, although it’s all in the title, is that this item should be returned to that person afterwards. Jewellery is the popular choice here, though brides like Kimberley Schofield on facebook who will borrow her friend’s underskirt and sash. @weddinginsurrey on twitter borrowed her tiara and @jemimaowen also borrowed her mum’s lace parasol… If you have friends that are getting married close to you, it’s lovely to form a ‘lending’ group, so that one item is passed around from one happy occasion to the next.

Something blue

In times of old, this was a symbol of purity, loyalty and faithfulness – all of which make the basis of a sound marriage. The obvious choices (and popular among our facebook friends) are garters, blue ‘I Do’ shoe stickers, shoes and a ribbon sewn into the lining of the bride’s dress. Blue bridesmaids are always popular, too. It might even be a single blue flower in your bouquet, blue nail varnish or a tattoo. Your wedding dress shop or designer would be more than happy to sew a dainty blue bow or ribbon into your dress. It’s a really nice touch. We approve!

I’m sad that I can’t remember what these items were at either of my weddings, although I’m certain that it’s a tradition I followed. I may not be superstitious, but I’m a traditionalist by nature. And one of the things I really love about weddings is the whole tradition surrounding them. Read about another of my favourite traditions in my blog about proposals…

We wouldn’t have the name we have if we didn’t deliver heaps of wedding ideas in the magazine, on our site and on this blog, but more often than not our inspiration comes from you. Please share with us your ideas for old, new, borrowed and blue. We look forward to hearing from you below and you may, in turn inspire some other brides to be.

Rachel x