Something Old, Something New…

…Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and a Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe

I’ve always wondered about what this well-known phrase actually means. After doing some research, I thought I’d share with you what I learned.
 
Historically, this phrase likely began in the Victorian era. Each item represents a good-luck token for the bride to carry with her on her wedding day.
 
‘Something Old’ – is symbolic of continuity with the bride’s family and their past. It could be something like carrying an heirloom handkerchief, wearing your grandmother’s pearls, or carrying a silk flower bouquet that has been carried by brides in your family for generations.
 
‘Something New’ – symbolizes hope and optimism for a good future. You could buy new shoes, a new dress, new jewelry, a beautiful new hair clip…I think you get the picture.
 
‘Something Borrowed’ – is an item borrowed from a happily married family member or friend, and represents good fortune being passed along to you. It also is representative of the bond between the bride and her family and friends. Items you could borrow are numerous, but could include your mother’s wedding gown, your best friend’s diamond stud earrings, or even your sister’s strappy glam shoes.
 
‘Something Blue’ – signifies love, modesty, fidelity and purity. Ideas of something blue could be a blue garter, a blue sash on your dress, blue lacy panties or even painting your toenails a light blue color.
 
‘Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe’ – represents wealth and financial security. Sixpence coins are made of silver and are worth six pennies – originally minted in Britain from 1551 to 1967. Modern day tradition is to use a dime or copper penny, although you can find keepsake sixpences for weddings online.