Adding A Touch Of Blue

Embracing Tradition: What Is “Something Blue” in a Wedding? History, Symbolism, and Modern Ways to Wear It

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.”

Chances are, you’ve heard this timeless English wedding tradition, but what does it actually mean? Historically, it was believed that if a bride incorporated all four elements into her wedding day, it would bring good luck, happiness, and a lasting marriage. Each piece symbolizes something meaningful, from continuity and optimism to loyalty and love. While all four hold significance, the meaning behind “something blue” runs deeper than most brides realize.

Before 1840, it was common for brides to wear blue wedding dresses rather than white. Blue was associated with wealth, purity, love, and fidelity—values deeply tied to marriage. The color also held strong religious meaning; in Catholic tradition, the Virgin Mary was often depicted wearing blue robes, making the color a symbol of devotion and protection. Brides chose blue not only for its symbolism, but also for practicality, as wedding dresses were often reworn for other special occasions. This tradition shifted dramatically when Queen Victoria popularized the white wedding dress, forever changing bridal fashion as we know it.

Today, “something blue” in weddings has evolved into a creative and personal expression. Some brides choose a loved one—like a sister, mother, or close friend—to represent their “something blue.” Others incorporate the color into accessories, wedding shoes, florals, décor, or jewelry. Blue has become a favorite accent in modern weddings, blending sentiment with style. And even when chosen simply because it’s a favorite color, many brides love knowing they’re honoring a meaningful wedding tradition at the same time.

At Lewis Jewelers, we proudly carry on this tradition through our bridal collection, Legacy by Lewis. Each Legacy engagement ring features a hidden blue sapphire set discreetly on the inside of the band. This thoughtful detail ensures that every bride has her “something blue,” even if it’s not visible to anyone else. The sapphire symbolizes loyalty, trust, and lasting love, making it a meaningful element you’ll carry with you long after the wedding day. It’s our little secret, shared only between you and your ring.

Whether you fully embrace the tradition or simply appreciate its symbolism, “something blue” remains a beautiful reminder of love, commitment, and good fortune. However you choose to incorporate it, we hope your wedding day—and every day after—is filled with joy, meaning, and a bright future together.

Frequently Asked Questions About “Something Blue”

What does “something blue” symbolize in a wedding?

“Something blue” represents love, purity, fidelity, and loyalty. Historically, the color blue was believed to protect against misfortune and bring good luck to a marriage, making it one of the most meaningful elements of traditional wedding customs.

Where did the “something blue” wedding tradition come from?

The tradition comes from an Old English rhyme dating back to the Victorian era. At the time, brides often wore blue dresses because the color symbolized faithfulness and devotion—long before white wedding gowns became popular.

Do brides still need a “something blue”?

While not required, many modern brides choose to include a “something blue” as a nod to tradition. Today, it can be incorporated in subtle, personal ways through accessories, flowers, embroidery, or even hidden details in jewelry.

What are modern ways to include “something blue” in a wedding?

Popular modern ideas include blue wedding shoes, sapphire jewelry, blue floral accents, embroidery inside a dress, or a hidden gemstone inside an engagement ring or wedding band.

What is a hidden sapphire in an engagement ring?

A hidden sapphire is a small blue sapphire set on the inside of an engagement ring band. It’s not visible from the outside, making it a private and sentimental way to include a bride’s “something blue” every day.

Why do engagement rings sometimes include a blue sapphire?

Blue sapphires symbolize loyalty, wisdom, and lasting love—values closely tied to marriage. Including a sapphire adds deeper meaning to the ring while honoring a long-standing wedding tradition.