Something Borrowed, Something New

"Something Borrowed, Something New" is a reality TV show produced by TLC that first hit screens in February 2013. At its core, the show explores the fascinating dynamics and dilemmas faced by brides in the run-up to their weddings, particularly regarding the crucial decision of what they should wear. The series presents brides with the unique challenge of choosing between a traditional, borrowed and refurbished gown or a brand-new designer dress.

Each episode of the show revolves around a bride-to-be who is torn between two dress possibilities. On one hand, they have the option of wearing a "borrowed" dress, typically a family heirloom or a vintage outfit re-envisioned and custom-fit by the show's resident fashion designer, Kelly Nishimoto. The borrowed gown often holds a deep sentimental value, often have been worn by their mothers or grandmothers, and therefore comes with its own unique story and emotional baggage.

On the other hand, the brides have the option of selecting a fresh "new" designer dress picked and styled by the show's other half, bridal stylist Sam Saboura. He utilizes his extensive experience and knowledge to help the brides find a brand-new, fashionable and high-stakes alternative from a bridal salon.

The show's format puts the brides in the heartbreaking and exciting position of choosing between a dress that's steeped in history and sentiment and a dress that's stylishly modern and trendsetting, which reflects their personal style. It brings out the charm and challenge of tying the knot, placing emphasis on the importance of the dress not merely as an outfit, but as a symbol of identity, tradition, and personality.

"Something Borrowed, Something New" subtly delves into the deeper construct of bridal tradition versus personal style, serving as a metaphor for the values they want to carry into their marriage. It also gives insight into the transformational journey of the brides as they grapple with choosing their wedding dresses, balancing their traditions and aspirations.

Kelly Nishimoto, the show's resident designer, flaunts her creative skills by taking vintage gowns and updating them, while preserving the charm and sentimental elements of the original dress. Offering the old dress a new life, she manipulates laces, satins, silks and added embellishments to create a contemporary design that could potentially match or surpass the allure of a brand-new dress. This gives the brides-to-be the chance to uphold tradition, while still looking chic and sophisticated on their big day.

In contrast, Sam Saboura adopts an entirely different approach. As the advocate for the 'new' gown, he works off the premise that every bride deserves to have a brand new, one-of-a-kind dress for the most special day of her life. Saboura spends time understanding the bride's unique personality and her vision for her ideal wedding. Using his expertise, he presents brides with trendy, stylish, and glamorous dresses that showcase their individuality and make them feel like a princess on their big day.

In every episode, viewers are taken on an emotional and transformative journey. From the revealing of the reimagined borrowed gown and the breathtaking new alternative, till the final reveal where the bride unveils her chosen dress to her loved ones - the show is packed with anticipation, excitement, and heartfelt moments.

More than just a reality TV series about bridal fashion, "Something Borrowed, Something New" magnifies the nuances of human emotion, family dynamics, and the personal growth of the brides as they make one of the most significant decisions of their lives. The show is heartwarming, passionate and offers an intimate look into individual stories, ribbon-tied with the common thread of love, tradition, and bridal couture.

In all, "Something Borrowed, Something New" is a captivating show which brings out the thrill, joy, stress, and sentiment tied to preparing for a wedding. It beautifully documents the personal journey of each bride mixing tradition and modernity, as they step into the most beautiful chapter of their life. This show is a must-watch for those intrigued by fashion, familial ties, tradition, and the quest for individuality, all under the exciting setting of wedding preparation.