The Bridal Closet

For some reason, I find traditions intriguing. Often I catch myself wondering how things got started, what made them stick, where they originate, etc. Especially during the most traditional time of the year for many, it's fun to start thinking of where bridal customs came from and how far they've deviated from the original. The centuries old ritual of 'Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue' has made an appearance in countless weddings around the country, but what does it really mean?

When you add something old to your outfit for the day, it is meant to express a desire to remain connected with your family after that trip down the aisle. Brides have used lockets, handkerchiefs, or family heirlooms. Some modern ideas could be to use a movie ticket from your first date with the groom, a napkin from your favorite restaurant as a couple or a newspaper clipping of your parents marriage announcement. Things can always be tied into your bouquet, attached to your lining, or carried in your hand.

When you add something new it symbolizes the union between you and your lucky groom, that will last through the burnt spaghetti dinners and endless Monday night football. Jewelry sent from the groom on the morning of the wedding is a perfect example of a great “new” addition. Of course, your dress is most definitely a possibility, as well as shoes and garters.

Bringing in something borrowed represents your love and admiration for the person you borrowed it from. Borrowed items are said to come from dear friends, or relatives. A mother's wedding ring or a friend's signature piece of jewelry are fabulous ideas to incorporate this classic touch.

The famous something blue addition stands for the couple's ongoing fidelity to each other. It made it's appearance in Ancient Rome and began as a symbol for love and modesty. Although it might seem the hardest to incorporate, brides with all different themes and all different looks have found clever ways of bringing it into their special day. A necklace with a blue stone, blue stones in a comb or headdress, or embroidery on the lining with your new name or the anniversary date, are all updated ideas that can add a modern touch to this time-honored tradition.

At the end of the tiny poem there is a line that has gotten lost throughout the years but is extremely important because of it's significance. “...and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” It is said to have started in Scotland as a custom to bring luck and a comfortable financial life for the couple.

So the next time you want to buy those blue-soled Louboutin's or the sapphire Manolo Blahnik's like Carrie in Sex and the City, you'll know they're wrought with tradition and a modern touch on an age old custom.

Let us know your ideas!

- Mollye, Winter Park Salon