Wedding Ideas for "Something Blue"
"Something blue" is a popular and Western wedding tradition that dates back to ancient times, and is still followed by brides today. It is part of the old English rhyme, "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" which is meant to bring good luck to the bride on her wedding day.
"Something blue" symbolizes fidelity, protection, love, and purity. and it is believed that wearing or incorporating something blue into the wedding attire will bring happiness and blessings to the marriage. Brides often incorporate "something blue" in various creative ways. Blue wedding attire, blue accessories, jewelry such as sapphires, aquamarines, or blue topaz. Adding blue ribbons to the bridal bouquet is a delicate and meaningful touch. Brides may also wear blue nail polish, blue embroideries, or have blue decorations. The possibilities are endless. The tradition of "something blue" is a charming way for brides to add a personal touch to their wedding, while honoring an age-old custom that symbolizes love, purity, and fidelity in their new journey as a married couple.
Remember, "something blue" doesn't have to be bold or overwhelming; it can be incorporated in subtle and elegant ways to complement your overall wedding theme. Whether you choose to go all out with blue décor or add small blue touches, it's a meaningful tradition that adds a touch of magic to your wedding day.
Where does "something blue" even come from?
The symbolism of blue dates back to ancient times, and can be seen in the “evil eye” charms such as the nazar, or in Christian depictions of Mary, dating before the formation of the Catholic church. A symbol of purity and innocence, as well as royalty. Mary is revered as the Virgin Mother, chosen to give birth to Jesus Christ without any stain of sin. The color blue symbolizes her purity and immaculate nature. Blue was considered a rare color in nature, and anything that can be made to make blue clothing was reserved for the richest buyers, mainly kings and emperors.
Over the centuries, a specific shade of blue became known as "Marian Blue" or "Mary's Blue”. It emerged as a popular choice for representing Mary. This color is a deep and rich blue, which further emphasizes her significance and holiness.
Early Christian artists and painters often used blue to represent the divine and heavenly qualities. Depicting Mary in blue became a visual way to highlight her sacred and exalted role as the Mother of God. The Byzantines, the originators of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, used iconography that heavily influenced Christian art. The Virgin Mary was often portrayed in a blue shawl. This tradition of depicting Mary in blue spread to Western Christian art as well.
Blue is also associated with the sky and heaven. By dressing Mary in blue, artists sought to connect her with the divine and suggest her closeness to heaven. The symbolism and influence of ”something blue” has been practiced for thousands of years, and is an enduring reminder of the importance of a happy and prosperous marriage. It’s also a fun tradition that allows brides to express their unique personality and hopes for their future.
Ultimately, the symbolism of blue in marriage varies across different beliefs and cultural practices. However, the overarching themes of fidelity, trust, stability, love, and hope make blue a meaningful and cherished color in the context of weddings and marital unions.
