Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue: The Why's and How-to's of this Timeless Tradition

Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue: 
The Why's and How-to's of this Timeless Tradition

Where did this tradition come from?

This tradition originated with an Old English rhyme.  The rhyme goes something like, "Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in your Shoe."  Hence-forth, these four objects that the bride adds to her wedding outfit or carries with her on the big day have just been considered to be good luck charms.  Something old is representative of continuity, or the link between the bride and her family.  Something new is considered optimism for the future and is representative of the new union the bride and groom are creating together.  Something borrowed is meant to symbolize happiness borrowed, or the support that family and friends will lend to the new couple.  Something blue is reminiscent of purity, fidelity and utmost love.  And lastly, and most often omitted, the sixpence in your shoe means a wish for good fortune; however, this tends to remain a British custom.
What can I use for something old?
-A locket with family pictures
-A vintage garter
-An old poetry book or Bible
-A vintage car
What can I use for something new?
-Lingerie—This could be an opportunity to take advantage of and treat yourself with something you would not usually buy.
-A "new name"—Have you initials embroidered on your gown.
-Your dress—You do not have to over think when thinking of your something new item.  It really can be as simple as your new wedding dress in itself.
What can I use for something borrowed?
-WordsIf there's a passage that really speaks to your relationship and circumstances, "borrow" a portion of these words for your own ceremony
-A cake knife
-Rent a luxury bag—The website that was made famous by the Sex and the City's first feature film could set you up in style for your "Something Borrowed" needs.  Follow this link to shop: Bag Borrow or Steal!
-Jewelry—Jewelry is always a wonderful go to for something borrowed as well!  Ask family members from both sides, as well as close friends!
What can I use for something blue?
-Pale blue nail polish—This can be beautiful when kept simple; you don't want to take away from the rest of your ensemble.  
-Blue embroidery—Kill 2 birds with one stone and have the stitching be your "new name".
-Blue bridesmaids' dresses
-Blue flowers—You could incorporate these in your hair or in your bouquet.
-"Something Blue" perfume by Oscar De La Renta