Wedding Traditions: Old, New, Borrowed, Blue, and a Sixpence

Many couples follow the popular rhyme "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe" to bring good luck on their wedding day. But what does all of this mean for a happy marriage? Let's look at the history of this rhyme, what each section represents, and some creative ways to incorporate these traditions into your special day.

The History of the Rhyme

This rhyme dates back to Victorian England and represents both continuity and new beginnings for weddings. Wedding planner Jeannette Tavares explains its significance, citing a tradition from Lancashire, England, that dates back to the late 1800s, with the first written reference found in an 1871 issue of St. James Magazine.

Tavares often hears from couples looking for meaningful ways to take on this tradition without looking antique or cliched. Here, we'll go over each section of the rhyme and offer both modern and classic options for your wedding day. A helpful tip: You can check off many superstitions at once, such as wearing a friend's newly purchased blue shoes.

The Meaning of "Something Old" & "Ideas”

"Something Old" attracts over the happy moments a couple shared before marriage into their new life together. Family-heirloom jewelry, like a necklace or ring from the bride's mother, grandmother, or aunt, is often included in this tradition. "Our wedding rings are very special because they were given to us by our family," said a bride who loves to add unique touches to her wedding. My partner wears his grandfather's ring, which my grandmother gave him, while I wear my mother's old ring." In this way, on their specific day, they maintain their family history.

“Something Old Ideas”

Vintage Rings: Choose engagement ring or wedding bands with vintage look like Old European Round Cut Diamond Engagement Ring.

Heirloom Accessories: Wear a family heirloom like a brooch, pin, or watch.

Old Fabric: Add a piece of an old family dress or veil to your wedding outfit.

Locket with Photos: Wear a locket with photos of family members who can't be there. 

The Meaning of "Something New" & “Ideas”

The meaning of "Something New" is simple: it symbolizes hope and looking ahead to the future. It makes sense for a couple to start something new on their wedding day, as they start on a new chapter of their lives together. This new thing can be anything simple like the wedding dress, a veil, wedding jewelry, or shoes. Many times, engaged couples plan their wedding before without even being knowing of this tradition. Whether you want this new item to be something you buy for yourself or something you received as a gift is fully up to you. And never forget that if you want to indulge yourself a little more, you can get more than one new thing.

"Something New Ideas”

Wedding Rings: Choose brand-new rings to symbolize your new life together.

Tattoos: Consider getting matching tattoos to represent your commitment.

Lingerie: For a hint of luxury on your wedding day, choose unique lingerie.

Bow Ties: To add flair to your wedding clothes, buy a new bow tie.

Cufflinks: Put in some new cufflinks to give your outfit a new look. 

The Meaning of "Something Borrowed" & “Ideas”

A bride can think about borrowing a special item from an important woman in her life, such as earrings from her grandmother or a necklace that her mother wore on her wedding day. She could borrow the veil from a bridesmaid who is already married in order to save money. The bride may decide to choose the same first dance music that her parents or grandparents used at their wedding, going beyond just what you can wear. These gifts from dear ones will add even more emotion to her wedding day."

"Something Borrowed Ideas”

Wedding Outfit: Take a dress or suit that's been in your family.

heirloom jewelry: Use jewelry like necklaces, or earrings, if they come from your family.

Perfume: Choose a scent that's special to a family member for your big day.

The Meaning of "Something Blue" & “Ideas”

The idea of 'something blue' comes from an old belief that the color blue could protect with the evil eye. Blue symbolizes love, purity, and fidelity—three important qualities for a lasting marriage according to Old English traditions. Brides used to often wear blue garters underneath their gowns in the past. You can still respect this tradition today in a lot of unique ways. Think of adding blue accents to your bouquet, your wedding asks tied with blue ribbons, a powder-blue bow tie, or an attractive pair of blue shoes. Choosing a blue wedding dress is also a great option for individuals who want to make a fantastic choice.

"Something Blue Ideas”

Sapphire Jewelry: Add a necklace or a pair of sapphire earrings to add beauty.

Blue Flowers: Use blue flowers or a blue ribbon to adorn your bouquet.

Blue Shoes: Simply write a specific message in blue on the bottom or wear blue shoes.

Blue Hair Accents: Give your hair a blue highlight or streak.

Blue Manicure: Choose blue nail polish for a fun pop of color.

The Meaning of "Sixpence in Your Shoe” & “Ideas”

The sixpence is a traditional symbol of wealth and good fortune for newlyweds. Many couples still use sixpence or penny in their wedding, even though they haven't been in use in the UK since 1980. If you are unable to locate a sixpence, you can try burying a penny under your clothing or putting it in your shoe for good fortune.

Just before the bride comes down the aisle, her father typically gives her the penny or sixpence as a blessing for wealth. Some brides select a penny from a special year, such as the year of their marriage or birth. A attractive tradition that gives personality to your wedding is to include something borrowed, blue, old, new, and old. Enjoy adding these touches as you get ready for your big day.

"Sixpence in Your Shoe Ideas”

Classic Sixpence: For good luck, put a traditional sixpence penny in your shoe.

Significant Penny: Use a penny from a meaningful year, like when you met or got engaged.

Custom Coin: To put in your shoe, have a coin created with your initials or wedding date.

Travel Coin: Choose a coin from a country you love or that means something special to you both. 

Conclusion: Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue, and Sixpence

Using traditions like "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe" adds personal touches to your wedding day. Each of these pieces represents love, hope, and continuity, enabling you to celebrate your shared history, present, and future. Whether you select classic or creative ways for including these things, they will improve your celebration by connecting your special day to long-held traditions. As you plan your wedding, know that these traditions are more than simply good luck charms; they are a celebration of your unique journey and the exciting new chapter you're about to start on.