Something Blue

Something old,

something new,

something borrowed,

something blue.

The proclaimed origins of this rhyme are varied, but the reason usually boils down to good fortune with the marriage, particularly in bearing children. I'm all about having a good marriage and all about the color blue, so I like the idea of following this rhyme for my wedding (at least the "something blue" part!).

Here are a few ideas that strike me as easiest to implement, and also really pretty.

1. Flowers

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One of the first things I thought about when devising plans was the flowers. I am a big fan of soft, puffy looking flowers: hydrangeas, peonies, carnations and large roses. My mom had white and light green hydrangeas for her wedding bouquet, so when I found out you can get blue hydrangeas they were instantly added to the list for that sentimental connection and the fact that they could match my color scheme. If you decide on blue flowers, I would recommend either going bright and bold (a big bouquet of only one flower) or soft and varied (light blue flower of choice mixed with other flowers and garnishes). If blue flowers are too unnatural for your taste, a blue ribbon tied around the stems of your flowers will add the color nicely.

2. Bridesmaids

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Dressing your maids has many pros: blue is flattering in some shade on every skin tone, it can be classic or vibrantly whimsical and chances are it is the favorite color of your maids (blue is the favorite color of 40% of people worldwide). For a timeless and consistent look, have your bridesmaids wear the same shade and cut.  If you want to be a bit more fun, try various shades. You could also do a neutral shade dress with a blue shawl (or vice versa).

3. Accessories: Shoes

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Adding blue can be as major as an entire dress or as subtle as an accessory. In the case of shoes, they are often hidden by the dress until you reveal the surprise, which makes it a really fun way to add happy blues to your day. I particularly like the latter pair of shoes for bridesmaids. If you're a perfectionist, match shoe accessories with other details: flower clips of the same type as your bouquet, a chevron patterned pair of flats with printed napkins, glittery pumps with shimmering jewelry.

4. Accessories: Hair

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I like the addition of a hair comb because it is functional and elegant. I do quite like the combs with shining gems at the end, but this latter flower one has a rustic and old time feel. I also just really love the idea of being able to take my hair out with piece (if you style your hair with only the comb). So simple. If hair clips aren't your thing, try a blue flower arrangement, birdcage hairpiece or even a blue veil.

Feeling more daring? One of my friends wore a blue dress, instead of white, for her wedding. She was married on a Saturday, days which are always devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, so it was a good nod to her faith. Have any special family heirlooms? What better a time to wear them?

Do you have the blues too? Leave your recommendations in the comments below!

Hairstyles: Up-Dos

It's never too early to think about your hair style the day of. Here are some of my favorite up-dos that could grace the scene on the big day....

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I like this look because it looks simple to achieve. That is a very important factor for all of these hairstyles because I will likely be doing my hair myself.

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This is a lovely way to have your bangs feature in your hairstyle, instead of pinning them back out of the way. This works best for side swept, longish bangs, but would probably work for bangs cut straight across or shorter like a pixie cut.

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Braided styles are very romantic and this one looks really complicated without being too difficult: side fishtails are braided together and curled up into a bun.

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This look is accomplished with a diagonal fishtail braid down the back of your head, then the braid continues to the end. Secure it at the bottom and curl it up into a bun at the base of your neck.

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Possibly the simplest of the ones in this post, this hairstyle is achieved by making a low, loose ponytail. split the hair before the ponytail (between the elastic and your head) in two then pull the ponytail through the hole made two or three times before pinning it to your head. Accessorize with cloth or fresh flowers.

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Flowers in your hair lend a fresh, Victorian look to your wedding and are perfect for Spring or Summer.

To come: Down and Half-Up Hairstyles.