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If you're planning a wedding, or even just dreaming about your own, you've probably heard this little phrase that sounds like it came straight from an old fairy matchmaker's tome:
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.”
Yes, this English tradition has crossed borders, centuries, and probably a few family wars over the seating plan. But what does it really mean? And more importantly, why respect it? Spoiler alert: it's not just to please Aunt Jacqueline.
Hang up your veil, we'll explain everything. And we promise, it's stress-free!
Ah, old. Just hearing the word makes you imagine yellowed lace, an old wedding dress , or a slightly faded piece of jewelry from Grandma's drawer. But in reality, this "old" is much more symbolic (and stylish) than it seems.
The "old" is the past. It's who you were before you became the rock star in a white dress you are today. It symbolizes continuity, roots, family. It's like saying, "Thank you to everything that built me, I'm taking it with me into this new chapter."
You don't need to scour flea markets to find a 19th-century candlestick. Here are some easy and touching ideas:
A piece of jewelry passed down from your grandmother (a vintage brooch always has its effect).
A lace handkerchief hand-sewn decades ago.
A piece of fabric from an old wedding dress, sewn into yours. Guaranteed to be an emotional effect.
An old photo slipped into your bouquet or pocket.
Don't panic. It just needs to have a story. Even a backless wedding dress worn during a significant moment in your life counts. The key is to put your heart into it. It doesn't have to be museum-worthy.
Let's move on to the "new." There, it's not too difficult. In a marriage, new things are rather easy to find (and let's admit it, often rather tempting).
The new is novelty, renewal, and the future. It symbolizes optimism, new beginnings, and all the projects you'll build together. Basically, you turn a page, you write the next chapter.
Okay, let's be honest: half your outfit is new. The dress, the shoes, the lipstick... you're spoiled for choice. But here are a few smart options:
Your underwear (new, comfortable and pretty = winning combo).
A personalized accessory, like a hair comb with your initials.
The necklace you just bought to go with your sweetheart neckline.
A piece sewn into your dress with the wedding date. Ultra symbolic.
No need to make something new out of something new. You can also create something new: a bracelet you make yourself, a wish list you write by hand, a piece of handcrafted jewelry commissioned from a local designer. The idea is that it's yours , and that it represents the future. No need to break the bank.
Now, be careful, we're entering the "contributing friends" category. Borrowing isn't a bank loan (even if that's often planned for after the wedding...), it's a nod to those around you - like that flowing wedding dress your best friend lends you for the big day.
Symbolically, the borrowed object is supposed to bring luck and marital happiness. But above all, it's a nice way to show that you're not alone in this adventure. Love is also celebrated with those who have always loved you.
Absolutely anything, as long as it makes sense. Here are some ideas that hit the mark:
The veil of your sister or a close friend.
A piece of jewelry your best friend wore to her wedding.
A belt, a bag, a shawl.
A loaner lipstick just for the big day (as long as it's waterproof, of course).
Ideally, the item should have belonged to a happily married woman. Yes, it's a little superstitious, but it's sweet. You can also ask a friend who has always supported you, or someone who inspires you in their relationship. Above all, it's a moment of exchange, a sign of trust, a bond between you.
And finally, the latest addition: blue. So no, it's not about transforming yourself into Smurfette, or wearing a turquoise dress (unless that's your thing, in which case, go for it), but rather adding a subtle touch, for example with an Empire Wedding Dress with blue details.
Traditionally, blue symbolizes purity, fidelity, and eternal love. Not a bad trio, right? It's a subtle touch, but it says a lot. Plus, it can be fun to slip into your outfit.
Blue lends itself to all fantasies, even the most invisible. Some ideas to steal:
A garter with a blue ribbon (classic but effective).
Pastel blue nail polish on the toes.
Blue embroidery inside your dress.
A small ribbon sewn inside your shoes.
Sapphire earrings, for those who want great style.
We can hear you from here: "But blue is NOT AT ALL in my theme!" No worries. It can be tiny. The idea isn't to distort your look, but to add a gentle symbolism, a little wink that only you (and your photographer) know.
It's THE question everyone asks (often quietly, so as not to offend the tradition team). And the answer is simple: no, it's not mandatory.
This little quartet comes from a 19th-century English tradition, and if it's still popular today, it's mainly because it's charming, a little magical, and it invites you to connect with different facets of your life: your past, your future, your surroundings, your romantic side. But you won't be cursed if you forget a blue ribbon.
You can follow it to the letter, or adapt it completely. Why not invent your own symbols? Something gentle, something strong, something free, something bold? Whether it's through a gesture, a word, or even the choice of a Wedding Dress for Plus-Size Women that suits you, the most important thing is that it speaks to you. And if it also makes you smile or moves you on the big day, you've won.
Sometimes you just want to tick all the boxes without spending hours shopping or calling the whole family. Here are some clever and creative combos for a savvy bride.
Why not combine all four elements in one object? An antique piece of jewelry (old), lent by a friend (borrowed), with a blue stone (blue), bought for the occasion (new). Bingo!
Prepare a small bag or pouch with all four items and give it to your bridesmaid. It's practical, and it's cute too.
You can slip an embroidery inside your dress with a phrase that sums up the four things: "Love from yesterday, light from tomorrow, a little help, and a lot of blue."
Basically, this tradition is like a little ritual to feel grounded, supported, and confident. It's a way of saying to life: "I'm ready, I'm loved, I have a past that has shaped me and a future to invent." And if we can do that with a lace handkerchief and a blue ribbon, why deprive ourselves?
The four pieces you wear can become precious keepsakes. Frame them, slip them into a box, or give one to your own daughter or niece later. It's a sweet, simple, yet emotionally charged heirloom.
Why not start a "four-item club" among friends? At every wedding, each one lends something to the next bride. It's a lovely bond that develops, and a great excuse to dig out that famous pair of earrings that you only wear on special occasions.
By the way, if the subject intrigues you, you can read more about it here .
Ultimately, this tradition of four objects isn't mandatory, but it has a certain charm. It's a moment of complicity, symbolism, and sometimes some lovely laughs. You can follow it to the letter, adapt it, or even completely twist it. As long as it suits you, it's perfect.
So, ready to slip a little blue ribbon into your pumps? 💍