“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.”
Have you ever wondered about the origin of these time-honored good luck charms? Here at Jodi Raphael Events, we conducted a bit of internet research; this is what we discovered. It was first a Victorian-era rhyme from the English county of Lancashire and later became a Puritan marriage custom. The saying describes objects a bride should have with her on her wedding day. If she has these objects, she will bring good luck or fortune to her marriage.
In Victorian times, “something old” represented continuity between the bride’s family and her past. “Something new” was a symbol of hope for the bride and groom’s future. “Something borrowed” was preferably the undergarment of a woman who already had children. Legend has it that wearing this would confuse the Evil Eye into thinking the bride was already fertile, thwarting any curse to the contrary. “Something blue”, originated in ancient Israel, was a blue bow in the bride’s hair to represent fidelity. It was later when “blue” became the color of the garter, another protection from the Evil Eye. In Victorian times, people were very superstitious. A curse passed through a malicious glare was believed to cause infertility!
| Ever wonder why brides stand on the left at weddings?
Today, these unique charms symbolize good wishes and remain important to brides on their special day. According to more recent traditions, “something old” stands for continuity; “something new” shows optimism for the future; “something borrowed” symbolizes borrowed happiness; and “something blue” represents purity, love, and fidelity. If you are so lucky as to find a sixpence in your shoe, that means prosperity will come your way.
For Those Creating Their Own Traditions
Should you choose to fashion these traditions in your own style, you may like this blue ribbon to lace your sneakers. Maybe you will opt to borrow small tokens of love from family or friends. And don’t forget the groom! Groomsmen can sport blue ties, wear blue argyle socks, or borrow Dad’s blue cuff links.
For a comprehensive list of “something old, new, borrowed and blue” – The Knot has done the research.
Connect with Jodi Raphael and let’s discuss how we can help with every detail of your wedding day, including the old, the new, the borrowed and the blue!
