Wedding tradition: something new, something old, something borrowed, something blue

You’ve probably heard the famous saying: Something new, something old, something borrowed, something blue. It’s one of the most popular wedding traditions, especially for the bride.

This wedding tradition dates back to the Victorian era, and says that the bride has to wear something new, something old, something borrowed, something blue the day of the wedding and symbolizes the bride’s connection to her future, her past, her love, and her happiness, bringing good luck on her special day.

It’s a beautiful tradition, and many brides still honor it, each adding their own unique personal touch. Let’s explore the meaning of each element and some ideas for incorporating them:

Something new, something old, something borrowed, something blue

Something new

This is the easiest to fulfill, as the dress, shoes, jewelry, or accessories are usually new. So, you’re probably already covered!

Carrying something new symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter filled with love and happiness.

Ideas for “something new” include:

• Wedding dress
• Cape or veil
• Jacket, coat, or shawl
• Shoes
• Jewelry or accessories
• Hairpiece or headband

The wedding dress is the most common “something new.” Don’t miss our blog article How to choose the perfect wedding dress for tips on selecting your ideal gown.

Something old

This element represents the bride’s connection to her past and origins, symbolizing the continuity of marriage. “Something old” is often a piece of jewelry, especially a family heirloom or an item with sentimental value.

Ideas for “Something Old” include:

• Heirloom jewelry
• Brooch
• Hairpiece or tiara
• Decorative comb

While it’s possible, it’s generally not recommended for the dress or shoes to be the“something old” because older fabrics may be delicate or worn out over time.

Something borrowed

Traditionally, “something borrowed” was something from someone in a happy marriage to pass on good fortune to the bride. Today, a close family member or friend (mother, mother-in-law, aunt, best friend) lends the bride an accessory or keepsake for good luck. This can be a piece of jewelry or even a handkerchief.

Ideas for “something norrowed” include:

• Jewelry
• Accessories: belt, hairpiece, brooch
• Handkerchief
• Cape or veil
• Jacket, coat, or shawl

The person lending the item can present it to the bride on the wedding day, making for a lovely photo opportunity, or it can be given beforehand.

Something blue

Originally, blue symbolized fidelity. Today, it still signifies loyalty but also represents love and commitment.

This is often the most playful element. Traditionally, brides wear a blue garter, but you can include the color in other ways, like jewelry, shoes, dress details, flowers, or even nail polish. It doesn’t need to be visible—you can hide it under the dress!

Ideas for “something blue” include:

• Garter
• Jewelry (earrings, necklace, or bracelet)
• Shoes (for the bold!)
• Bridal bouquet
• Belt or embellishment on the dress (a ribbon or stitching inside the gown)
• Hair accessory or headpiece
• Nail polish

Are you ready to embrace the wedding tradition of something new, something old, something borrowed, and something blue? It’s one of the loveliest and most fun wedding traditions to follow.

We hope this has answered your questions about this wedding tradition and provided plenty of ideas for each element.

Cover image by Trannà Estudi Creatiu