Who Gives a Bride Something Blue? Traditional Roles and Modern Takes

In the tapestry of wedding traditions, the adage “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” has been interwoven into the fabric of many cultures. This familiar Old English rhyme not only brings a touch of heritage to the nuptials but also is believed to offer the bride good fortune and prosperity in her marriage. Particularly, the ‘something blue’ signifies love, purity, and fidelity—qualities esteemed in a lasting union.

Traditionally, the role of gifting ‘something blue’ to a bride was often fulfilled by close family members or friends who themselves have led a successful married life. The nature of this token is imbued with personal significance and has evolved from simple ribbons to more elaborate heirloom pieces. How you choose to incorporate the ‘something blue’ into your wedding day can be a unique expression that honors tradition while still making it your own.

Key Takeaways

• The ‘something blue’ is a wedding tradition promising good luck and happiness.
• Friends or family members often provide the ‘something blue’ as a symbol of fidelity and love.
• Personalization of the ‘something blue’ allows brides to creatively honor an enduring custom.

The Significance of ‘Something Blue’

When you’re planning your wedding, the tradition of incorporating ‘something blue’ is a charming and meaningful element that symbolizes love and fidelity. Delving into its symbolism and historical origins can enrich your appreciation for this quaint bridal custom.

Symbolism and Meaning

Something blue is a deeply entrenched symbol of purity, love, and fidelity. This color has long been associated with weddings to represent these key elements of a successful union. The tradition suggests that by including an item of this color on your wedding day, you are warding off the evil eye, which is thought to bring bad luck and harm. It’s a way to usher in prosperity and fertility into your marriage.

Historical Origins

The custom of ‘something blue’ finds its roots in an Old English rhyme, which lists several tokens of good luck a bride should include in her wedding ensemble. Originating from the Victorian era, these tokens included something old, new, borrowed, and blue. While traditions evolve over time, this particular one has been a constant, with many opting to continue it for its message of continuity and hope for the future. The color blue in the past was also a popular choice for brides before the white wedding dress became the norm, engrained in the tradition of symbolizing constancy and loyalty.

Incorporating ‘Something Blue’

Traditionally, incorporating ‘something blue’ into your wedding attire represents purity, love, and fidelity. This charming custom allows you to infuse your special day with a personal touch, whether through a discreet accessory or a visible statement piece.

Creative Ideas for ‘Something Blue’

• Jewelry: A piece of jewelry with blue gemstones, like sapphire earrings or a turquoise bracelet, can add a subtle or bold touch of blue.
• Accessories: Opt for blue shoes to peek out from under your gown or a blue ribbon in your hair for a playful addition.
• Flowers: Incorporate blue blooms into your bouquet or use a blue ribbon to wrap the stems.
• Blue Garter: A blue garter is a classic and intimate way to keep the tradition close.

Heirlooms and Gifts

• Gift from Family: A gift from a loved one, like a piece of jewelry from your mother or grandmother, can serve as a cherished heirloom and your ‘something blue.’
• Accessories from Friends: Accessories or jewelry borrowed from a friend can serve as both a gift and a symbol of lasting friendship.

Personal Touches and Superstitions

Incorporating something blue into your wedding ensemble is a charming tradition embraced for luck and to ward off the evil eye. It represents love, purity, and fidelity — all vital ingredients for a lasting marriage.

Modern Interpretations

Today, modern brides are finding creative ways to include something blue in their special day. You might opt for blue nail polish or choose a stunning piece of jewelry — perhaps a sapphire necklace or aquamarine earrings — as your something blue. These elements serve not only to continue traditions but also to express your personal style and add a unique touch to your wedding attire. Some brides even include blue in their decor or photo backdrops, making a statement and possibly creating a new tradition to be passed on to family and friends.

Borrowed Traditions

The idea of something blue can also connect you with your loved ones. You might borrow a cherished accessory from a happily married friend or relative, infusing it with the sentiment of continuity and cherished family bonds. Whether it’s a vintage handkerchief or a piece of jewelry, adding this element provides both a superstitious charm and a heartwarming connection to your loved ones on your big day.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find answers to common queries about integrating ‘something blue’ into your wedding, ensuring that tradition remains a touching element of your special day.

What are some creative ideas for incorporating ‘something blue’ into a bride’s attire?

Consider a blue ribbon tied around your bouquet or a delicate blue hairpin. Shoes, jewelry, or even stitching your wedding date in blue thread on the inside of your dress are creative ways to include this hue.

How can brides include ‘something blue’ in their wedding while keeping the tradition meaningful?

To keep the tradition meaningful, you might choose an item of sentimental value, such as a piece of blue jewelry passed down from a loved one. For more inspirations, The Knot offers insight into the significance of this tradition.

What’s the significance of a bride wearing ‘something blue’ on her wedding day?

The color blue symbolizes love, purity, and fidelity. Incorporating ‘something blue’ is a nod to these virtues and a time-honored custom rooted in warding off the evil eye. You can discover more about this tradition’s history on Brides.

Can ‘something blue’ be a wedding gift, and if so, what are some thoughtful options?

Yes, ‘something blue’ can certainly be a wedding gift. Thoughtful options might include a personalized blue handkerchief, a bespoke piece of blue jewelry, or an artistic blue garter. Check out The Bridal Tip for guidance on who might present this gift.

Are there any modern twists on the ‘something blue’ tradition for contemporary weddings?

Modern brides often put a contemporary twist on ‘something blue’ by including it in less traditional ways, such as a signature blue cocktail or vibrant blue lighting at the reception. For unique ideas, explore suggestions on Fun in the Sun Weddings.

In addition to ‘something blue,’ what are some interpretations of the other parts of the traditional wedding rhyme?

The other parts of the wedding rhyme—”something old, something new, something borrowed”—represent continuity, optimism for the future, and borrowed happiness, respectively. Each element has its own special meaning, contributing to the overall charm of the tradition. To understand these elements further, you might read A Personal Wedding‘s take on the tradition.