something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a sixpence in your shoe

the 'old' came from a happily married woman so that her happiness was transferred to the bride. It also symbolises consistency. the 'new' is associated with your new start. the 'borrowed' was usually gold jewellery, which was said to guarantee wealth and fortune in the future. the 'something blue' was said to bring good luck and is often the garter. the 'sixpence' was traditionally placed in the left shoe to ensure prosperity.