“Something old, something new, Something borrowed, Something blue, And a silver sixpence in your shoe”.
This well known little rhyme originated during Victorian times and is still commonly practiced for good luck. In America, this is a very commonly upheld tradition.
Traditionally, the “old” would have been the garter of a happily married woman, with the thought being that her good fortune would be passed down along with it.
Of course today, there are so many sources for garters, be a simple one you caught at someone else’s wedding, or having it custom made to match your colors. Speaking of which, there is a fantastic garter maker who hand makes special garters for brides around the country. Julianna Smith makes premade garters or any custom garter to suit your needs. Be they your sweethearts college school colors, your wedding colors, or just a special surprise for your sweetie when he’s searching, Julianna’s got a garter for you!
The “new” stood for the couple’s new bright and happy future together.
What is traditionally new? Of course your dress is new, jewelry is often new, and undergarments . . . those are almost always new! Sexy or practical, always the question of the day! While sexy always makes you feel amazing, knowing you have a naughty little secret awaiting your groom under your gown of purity, structure to hold you in place could prevent any wardrobe malfunctions during the day.
Angelica
- a 100% silk garter with ivory silk ribbon and bow. £19 from Myla Lingerie; Love
- a cream coloured frilly lace garter with blue silk ribbon and bow £25 from Agent Provocateur; Alborea
- a luxury lace garter with satin trim and adjustable side-ties. Embellished with a Swarovski crystal and blue satin bow. £19 from Valisere Lingerie; Betsy
- silk satin knickers and matching garter with a lace ruffle and opulent bow. £49 from Myla Lingerie
“Something borrowed” was usually a much valued item from the bride’s family. It symbolized prosperity within the new union, but would bring that good fortune only if it was returned to the family.
Clearly something borrowed can come from anyone, but it means the most when it comes from those closest to you.
“Something blue” came from an ancient tradition in which the bride would wear a blue ribbon in her hair as a symbol for fidelity.
Placing a silver sixpence in the bride’s shoe was to ensure wealth in the couple’s life. Today brides often slip a penny inside their shoe before the ceremony in place of the difficult to acquire silver sixpence. As such, the rhyme is often adapted to “…And a lucky penny in your shoe”
Looking for a way to hold on to that penny you lugged around in your shoe all day, check out Belle Merce’s Soulmate necklace. They can stamp the date of your wedding into the penny and create a special necklace to cherish, and possibly pass down in the future!
