Something Old, Something New: The Meaning Behind Classic Wedding Traditions
Weddings are rich with symbolism, weaving together the past, present, and future in ways that make every celebration feel truly magical. One of the most enduring and beloved wedding traditions is the old English rhyme:
"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue — and a silver sixpence in her shoe."
But where did these customs come from, and what do they really mean for today’s brides and grooms?
Let’s explore the fascinating origins of these traditions, why they remain important, and how you can creatively incorporate them into your own wedding day for extra good luck, joy, and sentimental meaning.
The Origins of the "Something Old, Something New" Tradition
The famous rhyme first appeared in Victorian England, a time when wedding superstitions and symbolism played a huge role in ceremonies. Each element of the saying was believed to bring luck, happiness, and prosperity to the couple's new life together.
Over the centuries, these good luck charms have stood the test of time, inspiring modern brides across the world to weave sentimental touches into their wedding day attire and accessories.
The Meaning Behind Each Element
Something Old
Symbolises: Continuity, family heritage, and connection to the past.
Examples: Wearing a family heirloom, such as your grandmother's brooch or your mother's veil. Some brides even stitch a piece of a loved one’s wedding dress into the lining of their own gown.
Modern Twist: Create a locket with old family photos and tie it onto your bouquet.
Incorporating "something old" is a heartfelt way to honour family traditions while carrying your loved ones' blessings with you into the future.
Something New
Symbolises: Hope, optimism, and the exciting journey into married life.
Examples: A brand-new wedding dress, a special piece of jewellery, or even a newly purchased perfume for the big day.
Modern Twist: Commission a custom-made gown or wear a bespoke piece of jewellery created just for you.
"Something new" represents the fresh chapter you’re about to begin, making it a perfect way to celebrate the future.
Something Borrowed
Symbolises: Borrowed happiness and shared good fortune from a happily married loved one.
Examples: Wearing your sister’s veil, your best friend's earrings, or even borrowing a meaningful family handkerchief.
Modern Twist: Borrow a line of poetry or a favourite song from someone you admire for your vows or ceremony.
Choosing "something borrowed" links your marriage to a source of love and happiness, giving you an extra boost of luck on your big day.
Something Blue
Symbolises: Loyalty, purity, love, and fidelity.
Examples: Blue ribbons sewn into your dress, blue shoes, a sapphire ring, or even delicate embroidery on your gown.
Modern Twist: Paint a secret blue heart onto the soles of your wedding shoes or have your wedding date embroidered in blue thread inside your dress.
The colour blue has been associated with weddings since ancient times — think of the Virgin Mary’s blue robes symbolising purity and faithfulness.
A Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe
Symbolises: Wealth, financial prosperity, and good fortune in married life.
Examples: Although not as common today, some brides slip a coin into their shoe or carry one in their clutch for tradition’s sake.
Modern Twist: Incorporate the sixpence into your bouquet wrap, or have it embedded into your wedding jewellery.
Adding a silver sixpence may be a charming nod to this often-forgotten part of the tradition — a lovely touch for history lovers.
Creative Ideas to Personalise the Tradition
Looking to update these traditions with a modern touch? Here are a few fun, personalised ideas:
Memory Charms: Attach small charms to your bouquet representing each element.
Hidden Messages: Embroider your wedding date, a loved one’s initials, or a meaningful quote in blue thread inside your dress or jacket.