The custom of including “something blue” in a wedding comes from an old English rhyme: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” Each item was meant to bring luck and protection to the bride, with the colour blue symbolising love, purity, and fidelity.

The origins of this tradition stretch back to ancient times. In Ancient Rome, brides wore blue to represent modesty and faithfulness. Later, in early Christian art, the Virgin Mary was often shown in blue robes, strengthening the colour’s link with purity and devotion. During the Middle Ages, blue became a popular colour for wedding gowns long before white took over in the Victorian era. Brides believed that wearing blue would ensure loyalty and lasting love in marriage.

As fashions changed, brides began to wear white dresses but kept the “something blue” tradition alive in smaller ways — perhaps a blue garter, ribbon, or piece of jewellery. Today, the blue token can be subtle or creative: a sapphire ring, blue stitching hidden inside a dress, or even blue shoes or flowers.

Though it may seem like a simple custom, “something blue” remains a powerful connection to the past. It ties modern weddings to centuries of tradition, reminding brides that love, faithfulness, and hope have always been at the heart of marriage.