“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” You’ve most likely heard this wedding rhyme before. But what does the phrase actually mean, and where does it originate from? Western weddings are steeped in tradition, some dating back to ancient times, but not many of us truly understand the meaning and history behind these traditions. Let’s unpack this relatively contemporary tradition, its relevance and how you can put a modern twist on it.
What Is the History Behind the Rhyme?
The original rhyme dates back to 19th-century Old English and contains one more line than what we know today:
Something old,
something new,
something borrowed,
something blue,
and a sixpence in her shoe.
This poem originated during the Victorian Era and symbolized luck for a bride on her wedding day. The belief was that if the bride carried something from each of these categories – something old, borrowed, or blue, as well as a sixpence in her shoe – she would experience a happy and fulfilled marriage. Each “something” represents an item to be given to the lucky bride, often by bridesmaids and close family members, before she walks down the aisle to her groom.
In modern weddings, brides often use this tradition to involve cherished loved ones, meaningful objects, or a nod to a family member who is no longer with them. What’s truly special about this tradition is that the items each bride carries will be unique to her life and her love story.
Something Old
The “something old” represents the tie between the bride’s past and the continuity of her story. It can be anything related to the bride’s history, such as a locket with a picture of a loved one, or a small swatch of fabric from a relative’s wedding gown sewn into the bride’s dress. Historically, something old was believed to ward off the evil eye and protect the new couple’s future children.
How to Include Something Old
Today’s brides often see this item as a way to honor the special people in their lives. Many choose an item like a sentimental piece of jewelry, an heirloom veil, a gown from an older relative, or a hair clip from a childhood friend. Your “something old” could be as simple as a piece of lace, or something more extravagant such as a vintage car to ride to the ceremony.
Something New
The “something new” represents the new chapter in the bride’s life and the future she will spend with her spouse. It symbolizes happiness for a couple’s long future together. What you consider as your “something new” can be as straightforward as the wedding rings you exchange or could be a special purchase meant to fill this role.
How to Include Something New
Many couples find that the “something new” category is easy to check, as they are already buying a new wedding gown, veil, shoes, or jewelry. Another popular approach is for the couple to give one another a gift that serves as “something new,” such as an engraved watch, locket, perfume, cufflinks, or other sentimental item.
Something Borrowed
The “something borrowed” item usually comes from an already married family member or a friend of the bride. So the tradition goes, “The sense of happiness will transfer over to the bride and stay with the happy couple for years to come” (Brides 2023). It also reminds the couple that they can always seek support from her family and friends.
How to Include Something Borrowed
Adding an item that is borrowed for your wedding day is an ideal way to feel connected to loved ones. Many brides borrow jewelry, cake toppers, a tiara or veil, a cake knife, or a special fragrance from a friend.
Something Blue
Blue is the color of love, purity, faithfulness, and modesty. To keep with tradition, the bride can wear a piece of blue jewelry, or for a modern take write a small note in blue on the bottom of her shoes.
How to Include Something Blue
Sprinkle a pop of blue on your wedding day to check off this category. Incorporate blue flowers into your bouquet, wear a blue garter, a blue handkerchief around your bouquet, or blue cufflinks for the groom. Or, think outside the box and add blue touches to your decor such as blue flowers on your cake or a blue signature drink.
And a Sixpence in Her Shoe
Lastly, for the sometimes forgotten line, a sixpence was a coin in Victorian England. Nowadays, it symbolizes lasting wealth for the couple. Sixpence coins can often be found in wedding shops.
How to Include a Sixpence in Her Shoe
Mingling, dancing and celebrating with a coin in your shoe may be a challenge, so many brides choose to add it to their bouquet, hidden in their garter, or sewn into the lining of their dress. Still, other couples choose to place a special coin in the pillow of the ring bearer.
Trying to find a sixpence to use with some significance? Look for a penny minted in the year you and your significant other met!
Wedding traditions are best celebrated in gorgeous venues, surrounded by your loving family and friends. At Danversport on the North Shore of Massachusetts, we make sure that these traditions turn into lasting memories that are cherished for a lifetime. Please contact our office today to request more information or schedule an in-person venue tour.
