Blue Wedding Accessories For 2026 Brides
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4 weeks ago
Plus, the story behind one of the biggest bridal traditions in the world
While trends come and go, traditions remain – especially when it comes to weddings. And no tradition has stood the test of time as well as one very familiar rhyme: ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe.’ These are the core tenet brides past and present (and, most likely, future) have stood by when it comes to wedding planning. The result? Antiques, wedding day presents, family heirlooms and a slew of blue bridal accessories. (The sixpence, meanwhile, is slightly less popular these days.)
And when it comes to blue wedding accessories, there are plenty of options to try in 2026 – from garters and engagement rings to lingerie, bridal bags and bouquets. Shop our edit below for the best picks to shop now.
The Edit: Beautiful Blue Wedding Accessories
Blue Wedding Jewellery
Blue Wedding Shoes & Bags
Blue Brides: The History Behind The Tradition
The ‘something blue’ rhyme is one of those traditions that likely started by word of mouth, passed down from mother to daughter, sister to sister and friend to friend – which means that there isn’t really an exact written origin to go by.
The tradition itself is thought to date back to 19th century Lancashire, with the belief that if the bride carries each item listed in the Old English rhyme down the aisle, she will enjoy a long and happy marriage.
Superstition also plays a heavy role in the tradition’s origins; the list of necessary items was used to help the bride ward off the evil eye, which was believed to cause infertility. This is especially true of the colour blue, which has long been a colour associated with peace and, in relationships, love and fidelity. And historically, ‘something blue’ has been something hidden on the bride’s person – usually in the form of an undergarment – to help her avoid bad karma.
But, over the years, these traditions have softened and evolved with the times. While taken seriously by some, most brides now see the rhyme as another fun add-on for the whole wedding experience. And that something blue? You’ll find today’s brides using the colour as a means of self-expression, or even to showcase a personal memento.
Kate Middleton wore a blue ribbon that was sewn into the inside of her dress on her wedding day (c) Alamy
The British royal family, for example, have tapped into the tradition in playful ways over the years. For her wedding to Prince William, Kate Middleton wore a blue ribbon that was sewn into the inside of her dress (as well as Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring), while sister-in-law Meghan Markle wore several ‘something blues’ – including an aquamarine cocktail ring from Princess Diana, a pair of Aquazzura shoes with the soles painted baby blue and a piece of the blue dress she wore for her first date with Prince Harry (which was stitched into her gown).
Other celebrity brides have also taken up the ‘something blue’ challenge, with Nicola Peltz opting for a hidden message and an evil eye charm (both stitched into her Valentino gown with blue thread), Jerry Hall wearing a powder blue gown designed by Vivienne Westwood, and Beyoncé ditching the clothing element entirely for a cobalt blue manicure.
But if you’re a bride who is still looking for your something blue, fear not. We’ve rounded up some of the loveliest blue wedding accessories that will let you play with tradition in the best way.
Manolo Blahnik
The Bridal FAQs
What counts as ‘something blue’ for a wedding?
The beauty of ‘something blue’ is that ‘something’ can be pretty much anything, as long as it is indeed blue. It can be a pair of shoes, a hair accessory, a clutch bag, undergarments and more. There’s no rulebook here, which is exactly why the tradition has lasted: it flexes to fit whoever’s wearing it.
What are modern alternatives to a blue garter?
Brides have moved well beyond the garter in recent years. A blue-soled shoe, a sapphire or aquamarine ring, a manicure in a soft cornflower shade, even a note or charm sewn discreetly into the dress all serve the same purpose without feeling dated. It’s less about ticking a box and more about choosing something that means something.
Does the something blue have to be visible?
Not always – again, it’s up to the bride. Most like to keep it hidden for a more private nod to tradition rather than a styling statement.
How much should you spend on something blue?
There’s no set budget, and the tradition works just as well with a family heirloom as it does with a new purchase. Some brides spend nothing at all, repurposing jewellery or fabric they already own; others treat it as an excuse for one beautiful new piece (see our edit for ideas). Either way, sentiment tends to matter more than price.
