The words “something new,” “something old,” “something borrowed” and “something blue” are not just clichés when it comes to bridal traditions. A bride will want one of each on her wedding day, for good luck and in the hope that her marriage will be a long and happy one. They also have their origins in the British Victorian era. Something old symbolises continuity within the bride's family and the past; something new represents her excitement about her new future; something borrowed is usually an item lent by a married family member or friend whose good fortune in marriage can be passed on to the bride; and something blue symbolises the bride's love, modesty, fidelity and purity towards her groom. It is still a tradition that a bride should wear or carry all of these four elements as a part of her wedding attire. Here are a few ideas for a bride to personalise these sayings for her wedding day: Something old: - An old piece of jewellery that the bride's family has kept for a number of years and has sentimental value to them, or a piece of newly purchased vintage jewellery - A small piece of your mum's wedding dress sewn into the inside of your dress - Passing down the wedding ring or the bridal veil from one generation to the next is a family tradition that can be continued for many years - A tiara from a friend or relative - Holding the wedding at an historical venue Something new: - Wedding dress - Wedding shoes - Veil - A new bracelet, broach, earrings, necklace or tiara - A new lipstick in your favourite wedding-day shade Something borrowed: - The wedding dance that was played at your parents' nuptials, played as you walk down the aisle or when you have your first dance as a newly married woman - A piece of jewellery belonging to your mother or grandmother - A handkerchief from your parents or grandparents - The son or daughter of one of your friends to act as a page boy or flower girl - Wear a garter lent by a friend or family member Something blue: - Sapphire jewellery - A hairpin - Blue underwear - Blue nail polish - A blue bracelet
