26 Sweet Ideas for Your Something Blue: Practical ways to include blue on your wedding day

The phrase "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" is traced to a 19th-century English rhyme that originally added "a sixpence in your shoe." Historically, blue symbolised love, fidelity, and purity and was also believed to ward off the Evil Eye. Today most couples treat the custom as sentimental rather than superstitious — a simple, creative way to add personal meaning to the day.

Think about whether you want the blue to be visible in photos or private and sentimental. Visible choices create strong visual accents: shoes, bouquet ribbons, or bridesmaid pieces. Smaller items — a handkerchief, a ring box, or a bouquet charm — can be tucked away for personal value and still appear in detail shots.

Blue shoes work at every formality level. A soft, muted blue pairs with any white or ivory gown. A bolder blue gives a pop of colour that photographs well on stairs, carpeted aisles, or outdoor stone. Consider comfort and heel height as you would for any bridal shoe purchase.

Robes or pyjama sets in blue are useful, photogenic, and practical while getting ready. Choose fabrics that photograph well (satin or cotton blends) and consider matching tones for the whole party for cohesive prep photos.

A blue ring box is small but visually effective in close-up ring shots and becomes a keepsake afterwards. Choose a material and shade that complements your ring and dress fabric.

A delicate blue handkerchief is easy to carry or hide. Tuck it into your bouquet, a dress pocket, or a clutch. Personalise it with embroidery — initials, a date, or a small motif — to add sentiment without being large or flashy.

You can work blue into your flowers directly or keep the blooms neutral and add a blue ribbon tied around the stems. Ask your florist for blue flowers that fit your season and budget, or pick ribbon and trims that match your palette for an inexpensive, effective hint of blue.

Attach a brooch, locket, or small charm that belonged to a loved one. If the charm includes blue stones or ribbon, it both honours family and satisfies the tradition. It also creates a tangible keepsake you can store with other wedding mementos.

Practical tips for choosing and coordinating blue

• Match intensity: keep blues in similar tonal ranges if you want a cohesive look across different pieces. Contrasting blues can work too but plan the visual balance.

• Prioritise keepsakes: choose items you'll want after the day — a ring box, heirloom charm, or embroidered handkerchief will feel meaningful later.

"Something blue" is flexible and personal. Whether you choose a bold shoe, a discreet handkerchief, or a family charm in your bouquet, pick one or two items that fit your style and that you'll enjoy looking back on in photos and keepsakes.