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The Olde English rhyme for brides is still one that couples repeat today. While considered an ancient tradition, the refrain— "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, a six pence in her shoe"—was first widely distributed in a British newspaper in the 1870s. Variations across the Empire were common, but the notion of brides including a blue hue was steadfast. Said to ward off the evil eye, the color (which flaunts nearly 20 shade variations) symbolizes purity and fidelity.
Traditionally, the blue hue was incorporated in the bride's dress. And notably generations of the British royal family sewed blue ribbons into their gowns (which, it must be stated, are white thanks to Queen Victoria, who is credited with popularizing the modern wedding dress, among other nuptial traditions). Of course, times change, and these days brides, including members of the aforementioned house of Windsor, have found innovative ways to infuse their something blue into their wedding day. All are accessible, all are individual, and all promise the same power of good fortune.
From shoes to jewels and decor and food ideas too, here are seven stellar ways to get the blues.
Creative Something Blue Wedding Ideas for Modern Couples
- 1. On Fingers and Toes
- 2. The Shoes Have It
- 3. Details that Dazzle
- 4. Bluebells and Cockle Shells
- 5. Scene Setting
- 6. Welcome Table
- 7. Singular and Signature
1. On Fingers and Toes
Princess Anne's daughter Zara Tindall made a splash when she flaunted an electric blue pedicure at her wedding with her husband, Mike. Dubbed the "modern" and the "most unexpected" by the British press, the move is an accessible and festive way to ward off the evil eye. Coordinate baby blue toes and powdered manicures with your bridesmaids for a cohesive beauty moment—it's prime for the socials.
2. The Shoes Have It
Calling all you Carrie Bradshaw stans: Crib a style move from the ultimate shoe lovah and walk down the aisle in a pair of striking blue shoes. Famously, the fictional shoe fanatic sported sky-high peacock pumps by Spanish designer Manolo Blahnik. Today's bridal shoe trends focus on metallic-infused tones and prioritize comfort. Consider an embellished pair of platform heels—a style that works well walking down sandy aisles—in Robin's egg, or embrace the full-on Gen Z vibe and select a sleek pair of azure sneakers. For guests, invite them to dance the night away and provide a basket filled with turquoise flip flops or packable flats in a festive Tiffany tone.
3. Details that Dazzle
Staying in the original lane of wearing the color, donning sapphire jewelry is a spectacular way to have "something blue." Favored by royals since Persian times, the hard stones are popular wedding jewels symbolizing loyalty and faithfulness, as well as wisdom and good fortune. In fact, Queen Victoria wore a sapphire brooch gifted to her by her husband Prince Albert on their wedding day.
4. Bluebells and Cockle Shells
Or hydrangeas and delphinium, forget-me-nots and anemone in winter—all these beautiful blue blooms are chic ways to personalize your bouquet. Bonus: Floral experts say sky-tinted foliage symbolizes love, trust, and openness. Princess Eugenie carried florals accented with blue thistle when she wed in 2018.
5. Scene Setting
The invitation suite defines the tone for your celebration. While delivering all the details and logistics, the invitations are a glimpse into the vision and vibe of your Big Day. Infusing your paper selects with tones of blue can signify a myriad styles. Cobalt navy scripting can indicate a formal affair, while powdered tones (think: cornflower and baby blue) can signal a more relaxed setting. Details such as envelope liners with abstract shapes in sky and turquoise may set the course for our favorite wedding day—a sun-splashed celebration set right by a clear-blue sea.
6. Welcome Table
Using elevated accents, bring blue into the spotlight with decor and singular wedding details that hint at the legacy symbolism of love and trust. Consider navy escort cards and table numbers; programs and menus inked in chic midnight tones, and splash cocktail napkins and signature cocktail signs in azurite. Setting the table with detailed Alice blue-latticed chargers, linens woven with sapphire threads, and even tinted glassware as one couple did in Jamaica—seen in these images—invites a romantic whimsy to your celebration. Or go full-on true blue with saturated tablecloths in peacock, cerulean or Majorelle, wedding arches draped in gauzy cobalts, or an aisle runner in periwinkle.
7. Singular and Signature
The art of the signature cocktail is a generous blend of the couple's preferences and tastes especially presented for this singular moment to be savored with guests. It's also a fantastic moment to get a little playful with the blues. Splash Blue Curaçao into a favorite shake or stir, such as the Cosmopolitan and the margarita. Or opt for tropical delight like the Blue Smurf—a refreshing blend of coconut rum, lemon-lime soda, pineapple juice and Blue Curaçao—the Blue Lagoon a quenching mix of vodka, lemonade, and Blue Curaçao. For a cocktail that's perfect for toasting, there's the exquisitely named Midnight Kiss, which has a champagne base, a splash of vodka and Blue Curaçao served in a sugar-rimmed flute.
Imagine exchanging vows beside turquoise waters, surrounded by beauty, joy, and the traditions that make your love story unique. When you're ready to begin planning, send us an inquire and let Sandals help you create a wedding day filled with romance and unforgettable moments.
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