Whilst your dress takes centre stage in creating your bridal look, it isn’t the only thing that can make you feel radiant. Accessories elevate your look by adding elements of your personality and individual style. You can also wear heirloom pieces, such as jewelry or a veil, to add sentimental value to your big day.
Like every aspect of the wedding, your options for accessories are endless, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when looking through the plethora of ideas online. Use our essential guide to bridal accessories to determine which pieces work best for you and your wedding theme.
Wear the Right Veil
The veil is a traditional bridal accessory with deep-rooted religious symbolism and emotional significance.
Nowadays, most of us see veils as a symbolic accessory that adds a touch of elegance, grace, and mystery to the wedding look. Some of the most popular veil options include the following:
- Birdcage: Offers a vintage charm and suits brides who favor a retro aesthetic
- Blusher: A short and delicate veil that covers the face, which the groom lifts for the first kiss.
- Cathedral: Popular for its dramatic length, usually reaching beyond the train of the wedding dress.
- Mantilla: This Spanish, lace-trimmed, circular veil drapes over the head and shoulders, creating a romantic and regal effect.
Compare the style and length of the veil with your gown to determine what looks best, as you evaluate your options. Most bridal salons sell veils, so once you find your dress, try different options to see which veil best complements the gown.
Select Dazzling Jewelry
Most brides agree that jewelry is one of the most important accessories after the veil. The right selection complements your gown and the theme of your big day. A formal wedding may require more traditional, elegant designs, while a laid-back ceremony allows for creative, relaxed pieces.
As you decide on what jewelry you’ll wear, evaluate the different options.
Silver Tones
Silver, platinum, and white gold are perfect for brides who prefer cooler-colored metals. Plus, this silver-colored jewelry looks incredible on cool and neutral skin tones since it doesn’t clash with their undertones.
Gold Tones
Gold is the way to go for brides with warmer skin tones. The warm yellow hue of gold jewelry complements olive, golden, or deep skin tones. Gold is a perfect choice for brides who want a classic, elegant, and timeless look on their big day.
Rose Gold
Over the last few years, rose gold has grown in popularity due to its romantic and modern appearance. This blush-toned metal is a great option for brides who want to add a touch of femininity and sophistication to their bridal look. Rose gold also pairs well with warm and neutral skin tones, enhancing the natural warmth in the complexion.
Pearls or Crystal
Pearls or crystals may be the perfect choice for your bridal jewelry if you love everything elegant and vintage. These classic materials have been used in bridal accessories for centuries and are still popular. Pearls add a sophisticated touch and grace, while crystals add sparkle and glamour to any bridal look. You can incorporate various pieces of jewelry into your look, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and hair accessories.
Consider Hair Accessories
While hair accessories aren’t essential, they can enhance your look and harmonize with your dress and veil. Consider your hair’s style and length, and how you want it styled for the big day, to select the best option. A decorative comb or hairpin can add a touch of elegance if you love updos or the look of a half-up, half-down.
Pick the Right Shoes
Your wedding day is a long one, and you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet between photos, the ceremony, and the reception. Look for stylish heels that’ll still feel comfortable even after several hours of wear.
As you shop for shoes, consider what would look best with your dress. You may want to select plain shoes to ensure they don’t distract from the dress. On the other hand, you can spice up your look with sparkly statement shoes if you have a simple and elegant gown.
Don’t Forget the Extras
Additional bridal accessories go beyond jewelry and footwear to add unique elements to your style. Shawls and capes provide practical warmth during cooler weather, while statement capes introduce a bold modern element to a bridal outfit. Other bonus accessories you could add to your bridal look include the following:
- Clutch or small purse
- Belt or sash around your waist
- Wrist or elbow-length gloves
- Garter for a touch of tradition
The extras you wear, if any, are your choice. Some brides may prefer a more minimalistic look, while others may want to add as many accessories as possible. Whatever you choose, make sure it reflects your style and complements your bridal ensemble.
Decide How You’ll Get Each Accessory
We associate numerous traditions with weddings, including the old one of wearing “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.” It’s best to plan each accessory accordingly if you want to follow this tradition.
For instance, a family heirloom wedding gown is your “something old.” “Something borrowed” could be your best friend’s earrings, and “something blue” could be a piece of jewelry or your shoes. That only leaves the need to buy something new! Shop for bridal gown accessories that will be something new for you, like a beautiful veil, a detachable train, or removable sleeves.
Tips for Picking What You’ll Wear
Now that we’ve discussed your options, the next step in our guide to essential bridal accessories is to select what you want to wear. It’s all about finding pieces that complement your dress and highlight your style. With a few thoughtful choices, you can create a look that’s uniquely yours and unforgettable.
Complement Your Dress
Your accessories should enhance your wedding dress, not overpower it. Consider the neckline, fabric, and embellishments when making your choices. For example, you may wear a pendant necklace if your dress has a sweetheart neckline, but a layered necklace if your gown has a V-neckline.
Celebrate Your Style
The most important aspect of selecting bridal accessories is ensuring they reflect your unique personality and vision. Search for pieces that reflect your style preferences; a vintage lover may wear pearls and a lace veil, while a more modern bride may opt for statement earrings and a sleek headpiece. These small yet significant details can tell your story, making your wedding look unique while creating memories to last a lifetime.
Justin Alexander designs stunning bridal accessories that will elevate your look on the big day. Each piece blends style with timeless elegance, ensuring every bride feels her best as she walks down the aisle. Browse our collection today to curate your favorite accessories to try at your nearest Justin Alexander bridal salon. Your perfect finishing touch awaits.
