When preparing for your wedding day, choosing the perfect dress is a momentous occasion, but it’s only the first step in crafting your bridal look. Accessorising thoughtfully can elevate your appearance, allowing you to shine on your special day. However, the task can seem daunting with the many options available—from jewellery and shoes to veils and headpieces. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of accessorising your wedding attire, ensuring you make choices that complement your gown and reflect your style.
Summary
Accessorising for a wedding involves carefully selecting items that complement your dress, hairstyle, and personal style. Start by matching accessories with the gown’s colour and embellishments, and consider the neckline when choosing jewellery. Hairstyles influence the choice of earrings, while veils should align with the gown’s colour and style. Balance metal tones and avoid over-accessorising to maintain elegance. Choose comfortable, stylish shoes, and consider cover-ups for warmth or modesty. Belts or sashes can enhance your figure and personalise your look. Choose accessories that make you feel comfortable, confident, and true to yourself.
Understanding The Role Of The Wedding Gown
Your wedding dress is the centrepiece of your bridal look, and every accessory you choose should enhance its beauty without overpowering it. Your gown’s colour, cut, and embellishments will influence your choice of accessories. Here are some key considerations:
- Colour Matching: Certain metals pair better with specific gown colours. For instance, ivory and gold create a classic combination, with gold highlighting the warmth of the ivory. Silver, pearls, and rose gold are excellent choices for off-white gowns, while white dresses pair best with silver or platinum.
- Embellishments: If your gown has beading or intricate details, coordinate your jewellery to match the embellishments. For example, a dress with silver beading will look best with silver jewellery. Avoid mixing too many metals or colours, which can create a disjointed look.
Matching Accessories To Your Neckline
The neckline of your wedding dress plays a significant role in determining the type of jewellery and accessories that best complement your look.
- Sweetheart Neckline or Strapless: With these necklines, you can forgo a necklace and focus on statement earrings instead. Chandelier earrings or delicate crystal studs can add a touch of glamour. Alternatively, a simple necklace with a small pendant can accentuate the neckline without overwhelming it.
- V-Neck: This neckline is perfect for showcasing a pendant or choker. Pearls or a dainty chain with a small pendant can enhance the V-shape, drawing attention to your décolletage. Consider a statement necklace paired with drop earrings for a more dramatic look.
- Halter Neckline: With a halter neck, it’s best to skip the necklace and focus on your hair and earrings. A sleek updo can be complemented with a headband or crystal hairpins, while drop earrings can add a touch of elegance.
Choosing The Right Jewellery Based On Your Hairstyle
Your hairstyle is another crucial factor in selecting your accessories. Whether you opt for an updo, loose waves, or something in between, your jewellery should complement, not compete with, your hairstyle.
- Updos: If you’re wearing your hair up, consider earrings that will frame your face. Chandelier earrings or long drop earrings can add a touch of sophistication. If you’re adding a headpiece, such as a tiara or headband, ensure it doesn’t clash with your earrings.
- Loose Waves: For those wearing their hair down, opt for earrings that are visible but not overpowering. Small studs or delicate drop earrings work well, allowing your hair to take centre stage.
The Significance Of The Veil
Many brides wear a veil, a traditional accessory, but it is essential to select one that complements the dress rather than competing with it.
- Colour Matching: Your veil should match the exact colour of your gown. Even slight variations in shade can be noticeable, especially in photographs.
- Style Considerations: Your veil’s style should match your dress. A simple veil works best with a heavily embellished gown, while a veil with lace or beadwork can add interest to a simpler dress.
- Length and Proportion: Your height and dress length will also influence your veil choice. A long veil can elongate your silhouette, making it a good choice for shorter brides, while taller brides may prefer an elbow-length veil.
Balancing Metals In Your Accessories
When accessorising your wedding dress, it’s important to consider the metals used in your jewellery and how they complement the colour of your gown.
- Gold: Pairs beautifully with ivory or off-white dresses, as it enhances the warmth of these shades.
- Silver and Platinum: These are best suited for white dresses. They offer a clean, crisp contrast without overwhelming the gown.
- Rose Gold: A versatile choice that can complement ivory and white dresses, adding a touch of warmth without being too bold.
Less Is More: Avoid Over-Accessorising
While accessories can enhance your bridal look, striking the right balance is crucial. Over-accessorising can detract from the elegance of your dress, so choose your pieces carefully.
- Prioritise Key Pieces: Identify your dress’s most important features and select accessories highlighting these aspects. For instance, if your dress has an intricate neckline, opt for earrings instead of a necklace.
- Consider the Overall Look: Aim for a cohesive look where all your accessories harmonise. Avoid matching everything too precisely, as this can create a uniform look.
Selecting Comfortable Footwear
Your wedding shoes are not just about style—they must also be comfortable enough to last the entire day.
- Heel Height: If you need to get used to wearing high heels, consider opting for a lower heel or flats. The key is to find a balance between comfort and style.
- Strap Style: Shoes with straps, such as ankle or T-straps, provide more support and are less likely to slip off during the day.
- Material Choice: Choose shoes made from high-quality, more comfortable, durable materials. Leather and satin are popular choices for wedding shoes.
- Break Them In: Wear your shoes around the house before the big day to avoid discomfort or blisters.
Exploring Cover-Up Options
Depending on the season and location of your wedding, you may need a cover-up to keep warm or to meet venue requirements.
- Boleros and Capes: These can add a touch of elegance to your dress, especially if embellished with beading or lace. Choose a style that complements the overall design of your gown.
- Fur Stoles and Wraps: These accessories keep you warm for winter weddings and add a luxurious feel to your ensemble.
- Chiffon Shawls: a lightweight option for spring or summer weddings, offering a delicate and airy addition to your look.
Completing The Look With A Belt Or Sash
Adding a belt or sash to your wedding dress can enhance your figure and add a personal touch to your outfit.
- Belt Style: Choose a belt that complements your body shape. Narrow belts are flattering on shorter torsos, while wider belts work well on longer torsos.
- Material and Embellishments: Satin, leather, or beaded belts can add texture and detail to your dress. A beaded belt, for example, can accentuate your waist and add sparkle.
- Colour Coordination: Ensure that the colour of your belt or sash complements the rest of your accessories and doesn’t clash with the dress.
Staying True To Yourself
Your wedding day celebrates your love story, and your bridal look should reflect who you are. While going out with accessories is tempting, remember that less is often more.
- Personal Style: If you don’t usually wear much jewellery, there’s no need to overdo it on your wedding day. Choose pieces that feel natural to you.
- Comfort and Confidence: Wear accessories that make you feel comfortable and confident. Your goal is to feel like the best version of yourself.
Accessorising For Different Necklines
Different necklines call for different types of accessories. Here’s how to approach accessorising for three popular bridal necklines:
The Boat Neck
- Jewellery: The boat neck is a classic style that sits close to the collarbone, making it ideal for showcasing drop earrings or statement studs. Avoid necklaces, as they can clutter the look.
- Hair Accessories: A simple hair comb or pins can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the neckline.
Strapless Sweetheart Neckline
- Jewellery: The strapless sweetheart neckline offers plenty of opportunities for accessorising. Consider a statement necklace that follows the neckline curve or a delicate pendant for a more understated look.
- Earrings: Drop earrings or chandelier styles can frame your face beautifully, especially if you’re wearing your hair up.
V-Neck
- Jewellery: A V-neckline is perfect for showcasing a pendant or Y-shaped necklace that complements the plunge of the neckline. Layered necklaces can also add interest.
- Earrings: Simple studs or small hoops work well if you opt for a statement necklace. If you’re keeping the necklace simple, consider more dramatic earrings.
Conclusion
Accessorising your wedding dress is a personal journey that allows you to infuse your style into your bridal look. By paying attention to the details—like matching metals, considering your gown’s neckline, and prioritising comfort—you can create a cohesive and stunning ensemble that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your wedding day. Remember, the key is to enhance your natural beauty and let your personality shine through every accessory choice.
FAQs About Wedding Dress Accessories
What Can You Do to Make Your Wedding Dress More Exciting?
To achieve a sophisticated aesthetic, experiment with different necklines like sweetheart, square, sleeveless, or a high neckline and add embellishments and lace appliqués. Beads, sequins, and lace in elaborate necklines are another option; these embellishments will shine on any wedding dress.
What Do Brides Wear on Their Wrist?
Although many brides wear coordinated jewellery sets, a bracelet can stand independently without drawing attention away from your other jewellery. There should be something for you whether you choose a low-key or attention-grabbing style.
Should a Bride Wear a Watch on Her Wedding Day?
When it comes to the big day, does it matter if the bride wears a watch? A watch is a classy and adaptable accessory that can be worn by the bride and groom instead of a bracelet.
What Sort of Jewellery Goes Well With a Floral Wedding Gown?
To draw attention to your neckline without detracting from the dress’s lovely floral pattern, try adding a simple, delicate gold or silver chain. You can’t go wrong with a classic and timeless combination like a fit-and-flare flowery dress with multiple strands of pearl necklaces.
How Do You Wear Jewelry With a Formal Dress?
Wear jewellery that complements the hues of your formal dress or suit. For example, if you’re wearing a black-and-gold evening gown, try on diamond-studded stud earrings and a ruby choker.
