A modern tradition to bring you luck

By Marion, 01/02/10 Before the wedding 0 comments

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe! Most people know the rhyme but few people know its significance…

This old Victorian poem originating from England, details the traditions that a bride should adhere to on her wedding day in order to have a long and prosperous married life.

Something old is seen to represent the continuity of the old friends and family who are hoped to remain in the new life of the married couple. This could be anything from a piece of antique jewellery to a scarf or piece of lace taken from the wedding dress of the bride’s grandmother.

Something new symbolizes hope and optimism for the life of the newlyweds. This can be anything that has been bought especially for the wedding; the bride’s wedding dress, the wedding ring or even a lace garter worn above the bride’s knee.

Something borrowed should be given to the bride by a happily married female family member or friend with the idea that the good luck will be passed on. The bride must however, remember to return the object afterwards. This item is most commonly a piece of jewellery; a necklace or pair of earrings that are of special significance to the close friend.

Something blue is seen to represent modesty, fidelity and love. The reference to the blue colour of the Virgin Mary’s dress in the bible also suggests that it is a symbol of purity. It was also a popular wedding dress colour in the early 19th century for this reason.

Finally, the silver sixpence in her shoe is the final token of luck believed to ensure wealth for the married couple. Nowadays, the sixpence is hard to find and instead has been replaced by a penny which is usually worn in the left shoe.

A modern tradition to bring you luck

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