You’ve found the perfect guy and the perfect dress. Now, it’s time to find the perfect jewelry to complement your wedding dress without stealing the show. We’re here to help. We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you find the right accessories to help you shine on your big day.
Do you have something sentimental that you know you want to include in your big day? Grandma’s brooch? The necklace mom wore when she and Dad tied the knot? If you know that there’s a piece that will certainly be a part of your ensemble, then you should use that as the foundation for all accompanying pieces. They should complement each other for a cohesive, intentional look. Also, you should never feel pressured into wearing something you’re not totally in love with. After all, this is your perfect day and should be all about you and what makes it that for you.
The first thing to consider when choosing jewelry for your big day is your style. Of course, it’s a formal affair, so you want to include statement pieces, but they don’t have to scream to make a statement. After all, they’re completing your look, so you want to be sure it’s a look that’s truly yours. While it’s fun to partake in what’s trending at the time, be sure it’s a trend that speaks to you. Trends come and go. Your wedding pictures are forever. Prioritize your personal style over what’s hot now, and wear what makes you feel confident yet comfortable.
The next thing you want to consider is the style of dress. If you’re wearing a high-neck dress, your focus should be on statement earrings and perhaps some arm candy in the form of a chunky bracelet or bracelet stack. If your dress touts a plunging neckline, your necklace should accentuate that. Strapless or off-the-should dresses allow you to play a little more with the necklace/earring combination and accentuate the silhouette of the dress.
Now that we have the foundation for what to look for, let’s delve into the details. Here we go from head to toe…
Earrings are a given for most brides. So considering the basics, we can find the perfect pair. If you are a more traditional bride, pearls and diamonds are the historical go-to for most brides. However, if you want something a little more dramatic or romantic, consider some floral designs for an outdoor wedding or a gemstone drop for an evening affair. Also, keep in mind that you can also switch things up as your special day evolves. If your veil keeps you from wearing your statement earrings, you can always put them on when the veil comes off. Changing into a new dress for the reception? Change up the accessories too for a smashing new look.
The general rule of thumb is to wear a necklace that follows the neckline of the dress. The necklace should always sit on your skin, not the dress. A pendant works well with V-neck dresses while chokers and statement necklaces complement strapless and sweetheart dresses. Another thing to consider is the style of the dress itself. Lacy or vintage-style dresses beg to have jewelry that drives that look home such as whimsical or floral designs, while simple straight satin dresses call for simple, streamlined jewelry.
While watches are not traditionally worn as part of your wedding ensemble, bracelets have become the center of controversy. If you feel naked without your daily bracelet stack, we recommend choosing a couple of simple gold and diamond bangles to accentuate your look without distracting from it. However, if you have a more bohemian bridal vibe, by all means, go all out! Other, more popular bridal choices are a diamond tennis bracelet or strand of pearls, depending on the gemstones dominant in the rest of your pieces. We have a little bit of everything to satisfy your sweet tooth (for some arm candy, that is)!
Again, you typically want your engagement ring and wedding band to be the focal point, so most brides shy away from additional rings. However, if you like the idea of additional finger bling, just be intentional in your choices and keep it simple. Your bridal set should be the star of that show.
Not something many brides wear, primarily because they would rarely even be seen, but anklets do have their place in some weddings. Again, if it’s something you wear every other day, that is part of your style and should be included in your big day. Also, outdoor weddings and barefoot beach weddings could certainly call for a sparkly bit around
your ankle, so have fun with it and wear what makes you feel cute and confident. Click here to see several options from Gabriel & Co.
For more helpful tips on accessorizing your big day, please see our article in the February issue of Gulf Coast Woman magazine.
Regardless of your jewelry choices for your big day, the bottom line is you should wear what makes you feel beautiful. If you need help deciding just what that is, we are here and eager to help! Visit us today in downtown Gulfport!