Something Blue

"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue." The traditional wedding expression that we all know and practice. I have never really given it much thought, but where does that come from? Well after virtually no research, I found it. The expression originated in England in the late Victorian era, some say, and the original rhyme includes the final phrase of "and a silver sixpence in her shoe." It is meant to indicate a collection of lucky tokens, or good luck charms, a bride should bring to her wedding. If she does, it will mean a lasting, happy marriage.

So what does it represent? I'm getting there.

Something old represents a bride's connection to her family and its history. Something new is hope for and success with the future. Something borrowed symbolizes a bride's connection to, and ability to depend on, her family and friends. It is better to borrow from a happily married woman, as the good fortune is said to pass on to the new bride in her own marriage. Something blue represents purity, loyalty and faithfulness.

So there you have it! Now that great mystery is solved for all of us.