Something Old, Something New

Brides have a thousand details to remember as their wedding day approaches, but it’s four (sometimes five) little items that seem to stand the test of time—based on an Old English rhyme meant to gird the happy couple with good fortune.

+ The first four are popular tokens a bride may add to her wedding outfit or carry on her big day. “These symbolic traditions are good-luck charms, including the ‘sixpence in your shoe,’ ” says Andrea Erickson, owner of Andrea’s Vintage Bridal in Hopkins.

+ Something old—often a piece of heirloom jewelry or even grandma’s gown—represents continuity and family, Erickson says. Something new (perhaps that dream gown or fabulous pair of shoes) expresses hope for the future, while something borrowed symbolizes the ability to rely on friends and family.

+ Something blue? That takes a bit more thought. Brides often incorporate this symbol of purity, love, and fidelity with jewelry or a handkerchief. “Brides borrow [blue] pearls or a locket, and cover the ‘something borrowed’ and ‘something blue’ at the same time,” Erickson says.

+ The sixpence in the shoe—in the States, a penny—is still primarily a British custom and represents prosperity.