So there she was, five days before her wedding, knee-deep in seating charts, favor bags, and a DIY disaster involving hot glue and burlap when it hit her. She texted me. “I forgot ‘Something Blue’. The wedding is THIS WEEKEND.“
Cue the internal scream. You know that tradition, right? Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue (and yep, that Sixpence)? My friend had everything but the blue. I mean, she’d heard about it a million times, but in the chaos of wedding planning, it slipped through the cracks right between “put together wedding favors” and “wedding hair trial”. But don’t worry, I had just the thing to quickly remedy the situation. If you forgot, no biggie. The good news? There are plenty of easy, meaningful ways to sneak in something blue even at the very last minute. And I’ve got all the best ideas so you won’t be the bride who shows up blue-less. Let’s get started!
Does the Bride Really Need Something Blue?
The whole “something blue” tradition dates back to Victorian era. Blue was a symbol of love, purity, and loyalty, all great qualities when it comes to marriage. And while this blue tradition isn’t a legal requirement or even mandatory, many brides still like to include it for a little bit of fun and a nod to good luck. Some just feel like it’s one of those “bridal things you’re supposed to do”. So, even if blue slipped your mind, don’t worry: here is just the thing to add something blue to your last-minute packing list.
Smart Last‑Minute “Something Blue” Ideas
These are ideas that are quick, doable, low-stress, and don’t require months of planning. These easy last minute something blue for bride ship fast OR are easily accessible near you, so that’s a major bonus.
- Blue ribbon or thread inside your dress — tuck a small piece of blue satin, ribbon, or embroidery thread into the lining or hem. Hard to spot but counts.
- Blue ribbon garter or toss garter — many bridal accessory shops sell stretch lace garters with blue accents or bows.
- Attach a charm or pin to your bouquet — a small blue charm, ribbon, or pendant tied into the bouquet wrap can be your blue. You can order this online with fast shipping. or find them at a nearby craft store.
- Blue jewelry or earrings — a sapphire stud, blue resin earring, or simple blue crystal drop will do the trick.
- Blue stitched handkerchief — this one is adorable and affordable.
- Blue topaz ring wear this ring (under $25 on sale now) on your right hand. It ships fast and looks beautiful. You’ll be able to wear this one again!
- Paint your toenails or fingernails blue — bonus if you can match to your wedding palette. This is subtle and very doable last minute.
- Carry a blue clutch — you can even add a custom photo in the lining.
- Ask someone to be your “Something Blue” — ask a friend or family member to wear a blue outfit to your wedding.
- Wear blue underwear with light blue stitching, hosiery, or socks — entirely hidden, but meaningful to you.
- Shoe insoles – place them in your heels for a secret nod to the tradition that will keep your feet comfy all day.
- I Do blue shoe decals – stick these on the bottoms of your shoes for a subtle nod to the tradition.
- Blue hairpin, comb, or veil detail — slip a small blue accent into your hair or veil where no one might notice except you.
- Velvet Blue Heels — if you haven’t selected wedding shoes yet, these make a lovely bridal blue.
- Blue stitching, monogram, or embroidery — if your seamstress is still working on your dress, ask her to add a tiny blue stitch or initial inside the bodice or waistband. Or get this dress patch and ask them to sew it in for you.
- Blue undereye patch – in a pinch? Add this to your morning routine on the day-of. Plus, you won’t have puffy eyes. Bonus :)
Where to Get Something Blue Quickly (When Time Is Ticking)
Depending on how last‑minute you are (same day? day before? week before?), here are places and tactics to source your blue piece fast. (Wondering where to buy in Metro Detroit last minute? Michael’s craft stores, Hobby Lobby, or Meijer will have these items, no prob.) Or shop from your couch online for express shipping.
- Bridal boutiques and accessory shops — ask just for blue bridal accessories: garters, sashes, hairpieces. Many carry small blue accent items or know local vendors.
- Craft stores / fabric shops — think ribbon, trims, charms, small blue beads or crystals. You can DIY a charm or add ribbon to something you already own.
- Jewelry stores or gemstone retailers — a quick pair of sapphire or blue crystal studs might already be in stock.
- Nail salons / beauty supply stores — for a blue polish or gel manicure, just ask for something bridal blue or a muted blue tint.
- Online express shipping or local same‑day delivery — use services like Amazon Prime, Etsy (filter for fast shipping), or bridal accessory shops that offer expedited delivery.
- Florists — purchase blue ribbon, blue flowers, or blue floral tape you can attach to the bouquet wrap.
- Wedding emergency kit / niche bridal shops — some shops specialize in day‑of must haves including tiny touches like charms, pins, or patches that count as blue.
Pro Tips to Make It Seamless (So You Don’t Feel Like It’s an Afterthought)
- Blend it in. The best something blue is one that feels natural and part of your look, not a random shoe you don’t like.
- Keep it light. You don’t need a statement piece — subtlety is charming.
- Match tone. Stick to pastel, dusty blue, or whichever shade matches your accent colors so nothing looks out of place.
- Tie it to sentiment. Use something meaningful like blue beads from a family heirloom.
- Confirm with your photographer. Let them know your blue is subtle (like inside a dress or on a charm) so they can capture it.
Now you’re all set!
You absolutely can pull off your something blue even at the last minute and in a way that feels thoughtful, not forced. Whether it’s a blue stitch, a ribbon in your bouquet, or a sapphire earring, it doesn’t need to be dramatic. As long as YOU know it’s there, the tradition is honored.
Now pick your favorite idea and enjoy your big day!
Oh, and P.S. my friend went with the blue ribbon bridal garter. It was perfect. :)
In a pickle? Can’t help deciding? Email me if you need help choosing. I’ll swoop in to help!
Happy Planning!
xo
Emma
