In the realm of wedding traditions, few have endured with the same romantic appeal as the Victorian rhyme "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue." While each element carries its own significance, it’s the "something blue" that often allows modern brides to express their personality through a splash of colour. Representing love, purity and fidelity, this azure addition need not be limited to a discreet ribbon or hidden accessory. Today’s celebrations are witnessing increasingly creative interpretations that honour tradition while embracing contemporary style.
Subtle Blue Touches for the Traditional Bride 🧵
For brides who prefer classic elegance with just a hint of tradition, subtle blue accents offer the perfect solution. Consider having your wedding date or a meaningful message embroidered in blue thread on the inside of your gown – a private touch that carries significance without altering your look. Delicate blue topaz or sapphire earrings provide both the "something blue" and a timeless accessory you'll treasure for years beyond your wedding day.
Another understated option gaining favour is the blue-soled shoe. Taking inspiration from designer Christian Louboutin’s signature red soles, having your wedding shoes customised with powder blue soles creates a playful surprise that remains largely hidden yet fully honours the tradition.
Statement Pieces for the Bold Bride 💎
For brides unafraid of making a statement, the "something blue" presents an opportunity for dramatic expression. Electric blue shoes peeking out beneath a traditional gown create a striking visual contrast, while a sapphire-hued veil adds ethereal drama to any bridal ensemble.
The bouquet offers another canvas for blue expression – from delicate hydrangeas and forget-me-nots to dramatic blue orchids and thistles. Many florists can even tint traditionally white flowers like roses in various blue shades to perfectly complement your colour scheme.
Beyond Accessories: Blue in Unexpected Places 💍
Today’s innovative brides are thinking beyond accessories to incorporate their "something blue" in unexpected ways. Consider an ombré wedding gown that gradually transforms from ivory to pale blue at the hem, or a traditional white dress with blue underskirt that provides glimpses of colour with movement.
For the truly adventurous, blue hair accessories or even subtle blue highlights offer a modern take that photographs beautifully. Some brides are even embracing blue nail polish – perhaps as an accent nail or in a french manicure style – for a contemporary twist.
Blue for the Contemporary Couple 🕺
The "something blue" need not be limited to the bride alone. Matching blue socks for the groom and groomsmen create a playful coordination, while blue cufflinks or tie pins offer elegant options. For couples wanting shared participation in the tradition, consider blue-tinted cocktails for your toast or blue detailing on your wedding cake.
Some couples even incorporate blue lighting for their first dance or during specific moments of the reception, creating an immersive experience that surrounds guests in the symbolic colour.
Lasting Memento: Blue Beyond the Wedding Day
Perhaps the most thoughtful approach to "something blue" comes in choosing an element that serves beyond the wedding itself. A blue photo album prepared for wedding photographs, blue-themed honeymoon accessories, or blue housewares for your new home together extend the tradition’s significance into your married life.
For a particularly meaningful touch, consider planting blue flowers together in your first home – a living reminder of your wedding traditions that will bloom year after year.
The beauty of the "something blue" tradition lies in its adaptability. Whether you're a traditionalist at heart or a fashion-forward trendsetter, there’s a blue element that can be seamlessly incorporated into your special day while honouring generations of brides who came before you 💙
See more of our wedding theme articles HERE
