Every bride dreams of looking perfect on her wedding day. Everything is planned with meticulous attention, from the venue to the dress and the flowers. However, accessories are the often-overlooked details that can take your bridal look from beautiful to breathtaking. In this extensive guide, we’ll reveal the 4 Key Accessories to Complement Your Wedding Dress, helping you make informed decisions that reflect your style and ensure you look nothing short of radiant on your big day.
The joy of finding the perfect wedding dress is incomparable, but the overwhelming options available might make the process daunting. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the world of simple wedding dresses. Simple doesn’t mean plain; it’s about exuding elegance, class, and understated beauty. So, if you’re searching for that perfect dress that blends subtlety and sophistication, read on!
There are many ways you can wear your hair on your wedding day. Irrespective of whether you let your hair secure or let it flow freely, hair accessories can enhance the impact of your bridal hairstyle. More importantly, they are the crowning glory that allows you to stand out in the wedding scene.
The veil has always been a traditional wedding hair accessory. However, there are more accessories that brides use to enhance their bridal look. Today, we will take a detailed look at these different accessories. But before that, let us discuss about the different factors to consider when choosing your bridal hair accessory.
Factors to consider when choosing your bridal hair accessory
The bridal hair accessory is just one component of your wedding day look. Nonetheless, it is important, as it determines how your overall look turns out. Hence, choose your bridal hair accessory with care.
Here are the different factors to consider when choosing it.
Your wedding dress: One rule to follow when you choose wedding accessories is that your dress and accessories should come together. You will find it easier to find accessories that match a wedding dress, than the other way around. So, start you search for the right hair accessory only after you buy your wedding dress. Then, choose accessories that complement your dress style for the best results.
Facial structure: The right choice of hair accessories will enhance and draw attention to your best assets. Choose the right headpiece that is suitable for your face shape. For instance, pointed tiaras look good on round faces while flat headbands look best on square and oval faces.
Length and color of hair: Your headpiece should be visible to onlookers. Choose the right metal and embellishments that stand out against your hair color. For dark hair, most hair accessories are suitable. However, if you have light-coloured hair, pick pieces that differ from the color of your hair. Different types of headbands are ideal for different hair lengths. While most accessories work for long hair, dainty accessories look good on hair of short or medium length.
Wedding day hairstyle: With the wide variety of hair accessories available in the market, you have ample choice. Depending on whether you plan to leave your hair down or secure it in an updo, pick accessories that draw attention to the details in your hairstyle. If you have short hair, you can choose hair accessories so they are the focal point of the hairstyle. In this case, this element can transform a basic hairstyle to one that instantly wows!
Wedding style: Certain accessories suit certain themes better than others. For instance, oversize floral crowns look better at casual weddings than at formal ceremonies. When you go shopping for wedding accessories, choose ones that will look good in the venue. It should also blend well with the theme. Only then will you look like a bride that belongs.
The rest of the wedding jewelry and embellishments: Your hair accessories should work well with your wedding dress and complement your jewelry. Keep the rest of your jewelry simple if your hair accessory is ornate and elaborate. However, if you pick statement jewelry pieces, choose dainty head pieces that will not clash with the rest of your jewelry.
Pay attention to these rules of accessorizing your hair, and you will dress in style with your hair accessory being the crowning glory of your look. And what are the different options available to you in the form of hair accessories? Let us find out now.
The different bridal hair accessories
Bridal tiaras
A bridal tiara is a stunning choice if your dress has crystal accents or is relatively simple. Tiaras with pearls or crystal details go well with most wedding dress styles. This hair accessory is a statement piece; there are a few other occasions when you can flaunt one.
A tiara is a formal piece of jewelry. Hence,it suits traditional and opulent wedding themes very well. When wearing a tiara, don’t add too many other pieces or you will end up with a cluttered look. Pair it with simple studs and a thin pendant or necklace that doesn’t compete with it.
Tiaras come in different shapes, sizes and styles. These include the wishbone, regal style, double band, bun wrap, headband and wreath. Please consider where and how you pin it to achieve the right effect. A tiara placed at the crown will look entirely different from one pinned above a bun. For more valuable advice on choosing and wearing a tiara for your special day, visit this article on Wedding Ideas Mag.
Headbands
The headband is one of the most versatile types of hair accessories. It works on most hair lengths and complements almost every face shape. You can pair it with most hairstyles; it has always been a trendy accessory.
Headbands come in various sizes and shapes. You will also find that they feature various embellishments, making it easy to find one that fits your wedding day style. Wedding headbands may contain rhinestones, crystals, metals, lace and even feathers.
Headbands are the ideal choice to keep your hair away from your face. They also add an exciting touch of sophistication and sparkle to simple, open hairstyles. You will find classic, modern, Bohoand even colourful headbands.
Hair combs
If you plan to lock your tresses in a bun or similar hairstyle, hair combs are an excellent accessory to enhance your hairstyle. These accessories come with embellishments on the top of a comb, and are inserted into a portion of the hair. They will stay in place, and also keep the hair pinned down.
Hair combs may have simple details or elaborate embellishments. Although most bridal combs are embellished with sparkling details, there are also those with feathers, flowers and other dainty details. Hair combs look best when paired with braided hairstyles or updos, since these hairstyles make the details on these accessories more pronounced.
Clips and pins
Hair clips and pins are smaller hair accessories that add sparkle to a hairstyle. The benefit of using these hair accessories is that they can be paired with any hairstyle, however complex or straightforward. They add a romantic, feminine touch and are very pleasing to the eye.
Hair clips use a clasping mechanism and hold the hair in place. They may have a jaw between which they secure the hair strands. Hair pins are pushed into position, with the lower half concealed within the strands of hair while the upper portion is visible.
Choose hair clips or pins that match the embellishments in your dress by picking out flowers, stars or similar motifs that repeat on your dress. You can also add a dash of color to your hairstyle by using hair pins with colourful embellishments. These are small enough to add just a subtle dose of colour without overwhelming presence.
Fascinators
Fascinators are bold and beautiful accents to fancy hairstyles. They add a lively flourish of details to your hair. These accessories also draw attention to your facial features. Most fascinators are impressive with attractive embellishments like feathers, flowers, net, lace and faux flowers.
Ideally suited for Boho, retro and vintage style wedding themes, you will not need any other accessory to complete your look when you wear a fascinator. Fascinators are suitable for most hair lengths. Choose one that works well with the proportions of your face, and enjoy a unique look that will help you stand out from the crowd.
Floral crowns
Big or small, floral crowns are a wonderful accessory to enhance your bridal look manifold. They are very easy-to-wear accessories that instantly add a punch to any style. This article on the Brides website suggests that it can be used as a statement accessory. Moreover, flower crowns and veils are a match made in heaven. You do not have to give one up for the sake of the other.
Although floral crowns look best at outdoor weddings in spring and summer, they are also suitable for the cooler season. Delicate blooms like baby breath and daisies add a soft, romantic touch, while large floral crowns add a Bohemian touch.
Trust your florist to fashion a floral crown that goes well with your wedding theme, bridal bouquet and bridal dress. Alternatively, you can also make it yourself if you are crafty. Ensure you choose hardy blooms that will not wilt easily so your floral crown stays fresh for longer. Alternately, have one made from fabric or paper flowers. Such a crown will not become shabby or wilt over time. You can also save it as a valuable keepsake.
Flowers
Fresh flowers are a refreshing and attractive addition to any bridal hairstyle. Flowers in your hair are perfect for a romantic, dreamy wedding day look.
There are many ways in which you can wear flowers in your hair. You can position it in different locations to achieve the intended effect. The size, color and quality of blooms will determine the impact of your hairstyle. From simply pinning flowers into your hairdo to weaving it into a braid, there are several ways in which you can add flowers to your hair.
A few flowers tucked into the hair look classic. You can also wrap garlands around your hair or use individual blooms to substitute hairpins. For more ideas on using flowers as your hair accessory, visit this article on the Knot website.
Hair vines
Bridal hair vines are whimsical, adding subtle glamour to any hairstyle. They create a dramatic effect and look amazing when paired with braided hairstyles. Hair vines can easily be inserted into your tresses, adding a hint of sparkle to a simple hairstyle.
Hair vines are usually made with Swarovski crystals, enamel details, faux silk flowers or similar embellishments. These accessories have a natural effect that isn’t overpowering. It is suitable for both formal and informal wedding styles and you can wear it at any position on your head.
Veils
Although veils are short pieces of fabric, they create a bridal look instantly. Hence, this traditional and classic wedding hair accessory is closely associated with the bridal trousseau. They come in various lengths and can be made of different materials.
The fabric, length and style determine the impact of the veil. Some veils are better suited for formal weddings than informal wedding styles. Veils also have the power to transform your overall bridal look and tie it to the theme. For instance, a birdcage veil suits a vintage wedding, whereas a long cathedral veil looks amazing at a church wedding.
Look at this previous article for a comprehensive guide to the different types of veils available, and find out what is best suited to your needs.
Hats
A wedding hat is a unique accessory that not all brides are bold enough to try. However, this is a definite option if you are searching for something original. Hats are practical and functional for outdoor weddings. You may even find hats the right choice for cowboy and retro wedding themes. While a hat is a statement accessory like a fascinator, miniature versions pair well with birdcage veils for a stunning combination.
Now tell us, which of these is your preferred choice? At Best for Bride, we have a wide range of bridal hair accessories to add the finishing touches to your bridal look. Visit us in-store or at our gallery here to discover the different options and pick your favourite.
Jewelry and accessories play an essential role in your bridal look. It is thus vital that you plan your shopping well, so they enhance your overall bridal look. For only then will all the elements come together cohesively and enable you to look gorgeous.
Although jewelry and accessories are an important part of the bridal outfit, most brides consider them an afterthought. This is one of the first mistakes to avoid. Plan your look well instead of just going shopping and picking up something that you think will work well with your dress. Think of the different options to enhance your features, show off your dress and complement the theme. This will help you narrow down your jewelry and accessories choices better.
Here are some clever tips to help you understand how to choose the right wedding jewelry.
Always buy your jewelry and accessories after the dress
It isn’t uncommon for brides to end up buying a dress that is totally different from what they envisioned. In fact, we have lost count of the number of times a bride comes shopping with a definite idea of what she wants and walks out with a dress that she never imagined she would buy. This is why we suggest you shortlist the features you want to see in your dress. You can then look at dresses that satisfy most of your preferences if not all. Remember that you may end up going on an unending search to find a dress that satisfies every one of your requirements unless you have it tailored. Hence we suggest you first pick the dress, and then move on to looking at jewelry.
Let your dress be the guide when picking jewelry and accessories
The right type of jewelry and accessories work with the wedding dress, not against it! Brides who strike the right balance between the dress and the accessories look amazing. So, as a general rule of thumb, choose simple accessories if your dress is opulent. Heavy and flashy accessories are suitable if your dress is simple with few features that stand out. Look at the neckline, sleeves, how heavy the skirt is and work in the bodice to decide what would look appropriate to balance out your look.
Look online before you go to the shops
Most jewellers and accessories vendors list their inventory online. You can also find plenty of inspiration on the internet, on Pinterest and on bridal websites. It is a good idea to browse through the different available designs and identify the options you like most. Since you may not be used to wearing elaborate head pieces, veils and tiaras before, gathering information on what would suit your style, facial features and taste is a good idea. An online search will help you understand what is available. Visit various jewelry websites to use offers and discounts that will help you get a better deal for the money you spend on your accessories.
Choose your outfit properly when you go wedding shopping
The neckline of your dress is a significant factor to consider when picking jewelry. The entire effect will be ruined if your accessories clash with the neckline. To avoid this, wear a dress or top with the same neckline as your wedding dress when shopping. This way, you can understand how the necklace, earrings and veil will look with the wedding dress neckline. Also choose a light or white coloured top, to get the actual picture of how the jewelry will look against your dress. If you wear a colourful dress, the colour of the stones will show up differently than it would against white.
You needn’t buy if you would rather rent
Just like wedding dresses, wedding jewelry isn’t cheap. If you are a person who loves jewelry and will most likely use your wedding gems after your wedding day, it is a worthwhile investment. However, if you don’t usually wear jewelry, renting is a better idea. Many wedding dress rental shops also rent out wedding jewelry. You should be able to find accessories that match your wedding dress with this option. The shop you rent from may ask you to put down a deposit when you take the jewelry away. However, it is the easiest way to look great on your special day, at minimum cost.
Match the stones and metals
What we mean by this is that you should keep the effect cohesive. When you shop for wedding jewelry you will have various options like rhinestones, pearls, colored gemstones and more. Try to achieve a cohesive effect by choosing the same type of stones for each of your accessories. Similarly, be careful about mixing different metals as it can look cluttered. Don’t mix and match too much or you will ruin the overall effect. Even if the pieces look good on their own, they will not contribute to your look if they are all too different.
Know the best combinations for the white of your gown
Wedding gowns come in different shades of white. There’s bright white, champagne white, ivory, candlelight and ecru. Other metals look good with the different whites mentioned here. Pearls and metals with silver finishes are best with pure or bright white. Off-white colors like ivory and candlelight work well with gold and silver. Champagne looks good with rose-gold embellishments and jewelry. Ivory and ecru have yellow undertones and are good with yellow gold. You can also look at the embellishments in your gown, as a guide. If your gown has crystal and silver embroidery, choose the same colors in your jewelry. Similarly, if it features gold or pearls, following the same in your gown for a cohesive effect is best.
Re-purpose traditional jewelry for a contemporary look
If you have heirloom jewelry that doesn’t entirely appeal to your taste, accept it saying it doesn’t fit your style. Nonetheless, don’t wear it as it is if you aren’t fond of it. Instead, consider whether you can re-purpose it to suit your modern taste. Many jewelry shops offer this service. So, you can transform your family heirloom into a modern design with their assistance. Decide what you want the heirloom piece to be transformed into. Don’t limit yourself to making small changes. Brides have changed necklaces into earrings and bracelets, and strings of pearls into hair accessories. Ultimately, the important factor remains that the sentiment is still there, while you can wear jewelry that is more your style on your special day.
You don’t have to wear one of every accessory
The last thing you want to do is look cluttered with gems. Too many accessories and jewelry will make you look too busy. The different things you wear will then drown in sparkle and not be visible. The better option is to wear just the pieces that are actually necessary. It is a good idea to have one focal piece of jewelry and one or two more pieces to complement it. If your wedding dress is simple, make your focal piece big and bright for more sparkle. If it is an ornate gown, keep your jewelry simple and light to get the look right.
Please think of how photogenic your gems will be when you choose them
Although your accessories may look fabulous to your eye, it isn’t necessary that they will photograph equally well. Specific stones may have a dull finish with an old and faded look in photos. And intricate finishes may not show up in pictures. So, pay attention to how your jewelry and accessories will reflect on the camera. We suggest that you take some pictures to test how they look when clicked and only then make your final decision.
Be bold, go for color
Although there are many options, not all brides are comfortable in anything but a white wedding gown. If you aren’t sure but love colour, explore the variety of colourful gems to add that pop of color to your outfit. Take a chance with color, and you may be pleasantly surprised. Colored gemstones accentuate the beauty of any outfit. They are a perfect choice for the bride, especially if your wedding has a color theme. Colored gems allow you to incorporate the color theme into your wedding attire. Choose sparkling stones like sapphires, emeralds and rubies for a radiant effect and gems like jade, turquoise and coral for a casual wedding theme.
Don’t forget to check how you look from every angle
Don’t focus entirely on how you look from the front when choosing accessories! Remember that you will be facing away from your guests during the ceremony. So, use this opportunity to show off some extra style. Use dainty hair accessories that pack a punch from the back, or include a sash that has a beautiful tie-back that will impress. Additional accessories can help you look good from all angles. So, choose wisely.
Avoid extreme trends
Your wedding photos are images that will be frozen for eternity. Your generation and future generations will never forget you by how you looked on your wedding day. Don’t appear dated in them by choosing jewelry that is too trendy and will go out of fashion in no time. Classic styles are always fashionable and, hence, a safe choice. However, if you want to try out contemporary designs, do so by all means. Just ensure that they aren’t entirely new styles on the wedding fashion scene.
Make the most of package deals
The bridal ensemble takes up a huge chunk of the overall wedding budget. One way to make your money go further is to opt for package deals that give you more value for the money you spend. For example, bridal shops often have big discounts on jewelry and accessories if you buy it along with your dress. This will allow you to find the accessories for your big day without breaking the bank. At Best for Bride, we often have deals on accessories purchased with the wedding dress. The alternative is to have a flat percentage off the dress price. When you compare both options, you will realize that buying accessories as part of the package will help you save more.
Everything depends on your personality
We mentioned a number of rules here. However, no rule is set in stone and everything finally boils down to what you like. If you want to bring on the bling, do so! Or if you aren’t satisfied with the just one statement piece, wear all that you like and plan the rest of your outfit to balance it out. If you don’t favor jewelry, keep it simple and find basic pieces that suit your taste. You should be comfortable with the choices you make, as this is what will reflect on your wedding day. As long as you love what you see, you won’t regret your choices later.
So, tell us how you have planned your wedding day look? What are the accessories you chose and what did you base your decision on?
At Best for Bride, you can find amazing wedding gowns as well as superb accessories to enhance them. Everything from the veil and tiara, to jewelry and shoes are available in-house and online, so you can pick your choice easily. Check out our website to learn more about what we have for brides like you. Additionally, you can also find out about the special package offer we have on accessories that are purchased with the wedding dress. For more wedding tips and advice for brides, stay tuned to our blog page.
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