Tips + Planning

Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue: A Guide to Wedding Day Accessories Every Bride Needs

something old something new something borrowed something blue

Are you familiar with the famous wedding rhyme, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”? If not, this tradition represents good luck charms for the bride. In this article, we’ll show you have to incorporate each part of the rhyme to your wedding outfit.

something old something new something borrowed something blue

How to Incorporate Something “Old” 

To incorporate something “old” means adding something to your attire that you or someone else has previously owned. It represents your lives before when they became intertwined.  Here are some great ways to incorporate something “old.”

  • Incorporate a Family Heirloom: An heirloom could be a piece of your grandmother’s or mother’s wedding dress, an old bouquet wrap, or vintage jewelry.
  • Add Something That Holds Special Memories: If you want to honor your family in another way, adding an antique brooch or hairpiece is another great option. 
  • Reflect on Childhood Mementos: Perhaps there is an item that carries emotional significance from your younger years, like a charm bracelet. Add that to your outfit.

If you appreciate literature, you could include meaningful passages from memorable books in your wedding speech or vows.

something old something new something borrowed something blue
something old something new something borrowed something blue

How to Incorporate Something “New” 

To incorporate something “new” means purchasing something that you intend to use in your wedding attire. It symbolizes your future, shared life together, and newfound commitment. Here are some great ways to incorporate something “new.”

  • Buy a Perfume for the Special Day: Attend a workshop with your partner or work closely with an experienced perfumer to develop a unique scent inspired by both of you.
  • Purchase Lab-Created Diamonds: Incorporate lab-created diamond accessories, like rings or necklaces. You’ll look stunning and support sustainability all at the same time.
  • Design a Custom Veil or Hairpiece: Collaborate with a skilled designer to craft something that showcases your individuality while still complimenting your bridal style.

Remember, regardless of what ‘new’ element you add; it should speak to you and improve your outfit. Also, consider if you want it to have some utility after the wedding.

something old something new something borrowed something blue

How to Incorporate Something “Borrowed” 

To incorporate something “borrowed” includes adding something in your outfit that you borrowed from a friend or family member. It represents the good luck they want to bring to your marriage. Here are some great ways to incorporate something “borrowed.”

  • Borrow a Veil: This meaningful accessory not only demonstrates your connection with them but also adds an intriguing layer of history and sentimental value to your look.
  • Borrow Special Jewelry: Whether it be elegant earrings, a statement necklace, or a delicate bracelet, these borrowed treasures will tie together both tradition and style.
  • Add Quotes from a Playlist:  Instead of borrowing from friends or family, you could borrow quotes from musical artists and sew them to your outfit or bouquet. 

No matter what item or element you choose to borrow, remember that this gesture serves as a heartfelt connection between friends and family.

something old something new something borrowed something blue
something old something new something borrowed something blue

How to Incorporate Something “Blue” 

To incorporate something “blue” literally means including something blue in your wedding dress or tuxedo. The blue color symbolizes fidelity and purity, and it can be any shade of blue.  Here are some great ways to incorporate something “blue.”

  • Wear Blue Accessories: A subtle yet stylish approach is to wear blue accessories, such as a dainty sapphire necklace or earrings, as your ‘blue’ component.
  • Sew Blue Fabric on Your Outfit: If you prefer keeping the touch of blue more discreet, consider sewing a small piece of blue fabric onto the inside of your outfit.
  • Add Blue to Your Bouquet: Want to make a bolder statement? Consider incorporating something blue into your bridal bouquet by adding some cornflowers or hydrangeas. 

Alternatively, you could surprise everyone with a pair of striking blue shoes that peek out during specific moments throughout the celebration.