What 4 Things Does a Bride Traditionally Wear for Good Luck on Her Wedding Day?

On your wedding day, you want everything to be just right, especially when it comes to luck and love. Tradition says that a bride should wear “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue” to bring good fortune. Each of these items carries its own special meaning that connects you to your past and your future.

Wearing something old symbolizes continuity and the support of your family. Something new represents hope and optimism for your married life ahead. Borrowing an item is a sweet gesture that links you to a loved one’s happiness, while something blue signifies fidelity and love. By incorporating these traditions, you not only honor your heritage but also add a personal touch to your special day.

Embracing these four items can make your wedding even more meaningful. As you prepare for your big day, think about how each piece can reflect your unique story and aspirations.

The Tradition Explained

On your wedding day, wearing four special items can bring you good luck. These items carry deep meanings and have a rich history that connects to love and tradition.

History of the Adage

The saying “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” has roots tracing back to the Victorian era. It reflects the customs of brides seeking blessings for their future.

Each item symbolizes different aspects of life. The something old represents continuity and a connection to your past. It could be a family heirloom or any item that carries sentimental value.

The something new symbolizes optimism for the future and the new life you are beginning.

The something borrowed is often lent by a happily married friend or family member to bring wishes of good fortune and fertility.

Finally, the something blue represents love, fidelity, and purity, tying back to old traditions where blue was often a wedding color.

Meaning Behind the Items

Each part of this tradition holds its purpose.

• Something Old: This symbolizes continuity, reminding you of your roots and family history.

• Something New: Think of this as a reflection of your hope for a bright future and happiness.

• Something Borrowed: This item usually brings with it the blessing of a successful marriage. It reminds you of the support from loved ones.

• Something Blue: This color is steeped in tradition, representing loyalty and fidelity.

Many brides also add a sixpence in their shoe to bring wealth and prosperity, connecting back to old customs. Each of these items helps ward off the evil eye and can bring joy and good wishes to your special day.

Choosing Your Items

Selecting meaningful items for your wedding day can enhance the experience while also bringing good luck. Each traditional item holds significance and can reflect your personal story. Here’s a look at the four essential items plus a special addition for good fortune.

Something Old

Choosing something old symbolizes continuity and your connection to the past. This could be a family heirloom, like a jewelry piece or part of your wedding gown. It represents your heritage and the love that has come before you.

Consider using your grandmother’s locket or a vintage ring. These items not only bring good luck but also create a bond with your family’s history. You can wear a family member’s old wedding shoes or display a picture in a gold engraved compact mirror that has been passed down.

Something New

Your “something new” represents optimism for your future together. This is your chance to invest in something that makes you feel special. A beautiful wedding gown, custom jewelry, or stylish cufflinks are great options.

Think about selecting a dress that reflects your unique style and brings you joy. You might also find a special item that symbolizes your love, like a personalized gift from your partner. This item can be practical, like your wedding shoes, adding style on your big day.

Something Borrowed

Borrowing something significant from a happily married friend or family member symbolizes borrowed happiness and good fortune in marriage. You can choose items that represent their lasting relationship, bringing blessings to yours.

Consider asking to borrow a bracelet or a piece of jewelry that has sentimental value. Or perhaps a lovely veil that has special memories attached. This practice usually wishes you fertility and prosperity. Returning these items after the wedding further strengthens the bond of friendship and family.

Something Blue

The blue aspect of this tradition signifies fidelity and love. You can incorporate blue in various ways, from garters to accessories like flowers or jewelry.

A small blue stone in your ring or a blue ribbon tied around your bouquet can fulfill this requirement beautifully. Some brides may even choose a unique shade of blue for their wedding shoes. This adds a touch of personality while still honoring tradition.

Sixpence in Your Shoe

Carrying a sixpence in your shoe is a lovely way to invite financial prosperity and good fortune into your marriage. While this may feel less common, it’s a fun and memorable addition.

You can find a vintage sixpence or a replica to tuck inside your shoe. This practice is meant to bring happiness and create a solid foundation for your life together. Every time you walk, remember that you are stepping into a life of shared joy and abundance.

Incorporating Good Luck Charms

On your wedding day, you can enhance your good luck traditions by incorporating special charms. These items can carry sentimental value and connect you to family traditions, making your day even more meaningful.

Garters and Jewelry

One way to incorporate good luck charms is through your garter and jewelry. The blue wedding garter is a classic symbol of fidelity and good fortune. Many brides choose to wear it as part of their wedding outfit, hidden beneath the wedding dress. Wearing a garter that has been passed down can also add sentimental value, creating a connection to previous generations.

Additionally, jewelry can serve as a great good luck charm. Consider wearing a piece that belonged to a beloved family member, such as a gold engraved compact mirror or a special necklace. These items can remind you of family love and support, adding deeper meaning to your special day.

Heirlooms and Keepsakes

Incorporating heirlooms and keepsakes into your wedding day can help connect you with your heritage. Items that hold sentimental value, like your mother or grandmother’s wedding dress, can be a beautiful way to honor family traditions. If you can’t wear the dress, consider altering it or using parts as accessories.

You might also want to carry a small keepsake in your bouquet or pocket. Items like a charm given by a family member can provide comfort and remind you of their well-wishes. Creating your own unique wedding day emergency kit with waterproof mascara and these cherished items can ensure you stay prepared and connected to tradition all day long.