Something Old, Something New…

You may have heard the old rhyme; Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in Your Shoe. (Props to you, if you’ve heard the last part)! This rhyme has inspired one of the most popular wedding traditions for ages! Many couples who don’t decide to follow many other traditions make an effort to add their ‘somethings’ to the wedding attire. It’s one of my favorite traditions I see brides take part in every year.

But where does it all come from? 

The rhyme came about in the Victorian era in England. Most of the ingredients in the rhyme are meant to ward off the evil eye, which, according to Reader’s Digest, was “a curse passed through a malicious glare that could make a bride infertile.” Each ‘something’ represents a different ingredient needed for good marriage.

Something Old: Including this is a sure way to ward off the evil eye and protect any future children the couple might have. But on a more general note, something old represents continuity.

Something New: Something new brings optimism for the future.

Something Borrowed: Including something borrowed brings the couple good luck. By borrowing something from a happily married friend or relative, the bride or couple ensures a little of their good fortune rubs off on them.

Something Blue: This something was also meant to deflect that pesky evil eye, the blue stands for love, purity and fidelity—what the Old English considered were three key qualities for a solid marriage. Traditionally, a blue garter was worn. 

A sixpence in your shoe: The often forgotten sixpence is the final ingredient in the old rhyme. This British coin represents prosperity for couples as they start their lives together. You can also use a penny for this, as the sixpence was decommissioned in 1980. 

Please don’t stress about this rhyme though! These ‘somethings’ should not dictate your attire choices (unless you want them to)! They are usually small tokens of love that your mother, sister or other guests will give you at the eleventh hour. And grooms, you can get in on the fun too! Whether you want to include a special pair of cuff links or socks that mean something to you, go for it! I personally love when people add some blue to their shoes, or even use the color on their nails! 

xo,

Becca