The wedding dress is almost always the star of the show—but your entire wedding look wouldn’t be complete without glowing skin, a confident attitude, and, of course, some fabulous accessories! After all, it’s all these little details that create an incredible and memorable ensemble.
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The thing about accessories, however, is that there are a bewildering number of options for jewelry, shoes, and veils. It’s hard not to overdo it, but at the same time, you don’t want to look too plain!
Tips to Accessorize Your Wedding Dress
1. Go For Less
It’s okay not to pile on everything! You don’t have to wear a veil, tiara, earrings, necklace, and sash. While accessories give your wedding look a personal touch, wearing too many can be downright distracting!
Make a list of your wedding dress’ unique features before you start shopping for accessories, and then base your choices on them. For example, if your dress has an elaborate neckline, let it stand on its own and choose a set of drop earrings instead of a striking necklace. You can do the opposite if your dress has a simpler neckline. The more distinct your necklace, the better!
It would be best if you also considered your hairstyle when choosing jewelry. Small studs or drops work well if you plan to wear your hair down and over your ears. For updos, on the other hand, go for something dramatic! A pair of chandelier danglers will do the trick.
Lastly, avoid designs that mimic embellishments on your dress—you don’t want to look overly coordinated!
2. Consider Your Wedding Dress’s Neckline
Details matter! If you’re having a hard time figuring out what to pair with your wedding dress, check the details—especially the neckline.
Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, or even your earrings, they should all complement the neckline of your wedding dress. For example, chokers or shorter necklaces pair well with strapless or sweetheart necklines but not so much with V-necks.
For high-neck gowns, forget the necklace and opt for a gorgeous drop earring instead. As for off-the-shoulder dresses, go for a classic and timeless choice with a set of pearls.
3. Think About The Color of Your Gown
Wedding dresses don’t have a uniform white color! There are different shades of white; some brides even go for non-traditional colors like lavender, bright yellow, soft blue, champagne, or black.
Choose your accessories based on the color of your dress. For example, if you have a pure white bridal gown, go for jewelry with silver plating and cooler tones. On the other hand, for gowns in cream or warmer ivory, gold or rose gold accessories will work well to complete your bridal look.
4. Think Beyond Jewelry
When choosing accessories, your first thought might be necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. But don’t stop there!
Veil
Veils are iconic, but they can be a doozy since so many options exist! When selecting your veil, one of the first things you must consider is the color. It must be the exact shade of your gown, so leave the color blocking to your everyday look!
If your dress already has a lot going on, it would be better to wear a simple veil style that won’t steal the show. However, for dresses with stunning embroidery or beading at the back, you can still show them off with a gorgeous sheer veil.
Take your body type into account, too! For petite brides, longer waltzes or floor-length veils will elongate your frame. For taller brides, go for mid-length styles such as fingertip-length or elbow-length veils.
If you’re looking to add a fun, retro vibe to your wedding day look, short styles like a birdcage or bandeau work well for all shapes and sizes!
Hair Accessories
Not a fan of the veil? Why not try fascinators, hair combs, or flower crowns instead? Before choosing your accessories, decide on your hairstyle first. For instance, flower crowns look better with loose locks than any other hairstyle.
Don’t forget to take your hair type into account! Dainty accessories might be ideal for fine hair but won’t stand out as much in thick waves. But what’s even more important is that you have to make sure that anything you choose makes you feel secure while moving around.
Shoes
Your wedding day ensemble wouldn’t be complete without the perfect pair of shoes! Obviously, you’ll need a killer pair of shoes to complement that stunning dress, but that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice comfort. Remember: you’ll be standing for extended periods of time. The last thing you want is to start the dance floor writhing in agony!
Take into account the heel height (clearly, the higher the heel, the greater the possibility for pain), the type of straps, and the material. In order to prevent instability, your feet must be properly supported (consider ankle and toe straps over slip-ons).
Other Accessories
Looking for a quick and easy way to add personality to your dress? Add a belt or sash to help create the illusion of curves! It’s an great way to personalize your gown and change its look without having to make expensive alterations.
Another accessory you can consider is a cover-up, especially if you’re getting married during the cooler months. Your options are endless, including boleros, capelets, and fur stoles. The goal is to pick one that perfectly balances your gown.
5. Just Be True To Yourself
You might think your wedding day outfit is the perfect opportunity to try something new, go overboard, and accessorize differently than you usually would. But your wedding day is undoubtedly the most important day of your life! So, the best way to accessorize wedding dress is to wear what makes you feel most comfortable in your own skin.
If the only accessories you want to wear are your engagement ring and some simple yet meaningful earrings, then go for it! Despite the wedding hype, the bride glam, and everyone’s expectations and advice, always stay true to your own style and be yourself.
Look and Feel the Best on Your Wedding Day
While all the tips we’ve listed might add that extra oomph to your wedding dress, your wedding look is entirely up to you! Make sure that you look and feel your best from head to toe. Maintain proper eye care and wear the most comfortable shoes. What matters is that you’re comfortable and confident while creating memories with the people you love.
For more fashion and beauty tips, read more of our fun and insightful articles here at What It All Be Like.
