A wedding dress is the centerpiece of a bride's ensemble, but it's the accessories that can really elevate the look to the next level. Whether you're going for a classic or contemporary vibe, the right accessories can make all the difference. Here are some tips on how to accessorize a wedding dress.
1. Consider Your Dress Style
Before you start shopping for accessories, take a closer look at your wedding dress. The style of your dress will have a significant impact on the accessories you choose. For example, if you're wearing a vintage-inspired gown, you might opt for an art deco-inspired headpiece or drop earrings. If your dress is modern and minimalist, a sleek pair of studs or a simple bracelet might be the perfect complement.
2. Don't Overdo It
It's important to remember that less is often more when it comes to wedding dress accessories. A few carefully chosen pieces can be much more effective than a cluttered look. Choose one or two statement pieces to really make an impact, like a bold necklace or a striking pair of earrings, and then keep the rest of your accessories simple.
3. Think About Your Hairstyle
Your hairstyle can also play a role in the accessories you choose. If you're wearing your hair down, consider a pair of sparkly earrings or a statement headband. If you're wearing an updo, you might opt for a delicate hairpin or a floral crown. Be sure to talk to your hairstylist about the accessories you plan to wear so they can incorporate them into your overall look.
Photo by DARYA GRYAZEVA
4. Don't Forget About Your Shoes
Your shoes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about wedding dress accessories, but they can be a great way to add some personality to your look. Whether you opt for a classic pair of pumps or something a little more playful, your shoes can be a subtle nod to your personal style.
5. Consider Your Wedding Theme
If you're planning a themed wedding, your accessories can be a great way to tie everything together. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, consider a pair of shell-inspired earrings or a starfish headband. If you're having a rustic wedding, a pair of wooden earrings or a leather belt might be the perfect finishing touch.
6. Remember Your Something Borrowed and Something Blue
If you're following the age-old wedding tradition of "something borrowed, something blue," your accessories can be a great way to incorporate these elements into your look. Consider borrowing a family heirloom, like a necklace or bracelet, or wearing blue shoes or a blue sash.
7. Do Take Your Time.
Remember to take your time when choosing your wedding dress accessories. Don't feel like you have to rush to make a decision. Take the time to try on different pieces and see how they work with your dress. And remember, the most important thing is to choose accessories that make you feel confident and beautiful on your big day.
8. Do coordinate with Your Bridal Party
If you have a bridal party, consider coordinating your accessories with theirs. This can create a cohesive look and tie everything together. For example, if your bridesmaids are wearing silver jewelry, you might opt for silver accessories as well. Or, if your bridal party is wearing a specific color, you might choose accessories that complement that hue.
9. Play with Textures and Materials
Mixing different textures and materials can create an interesting and dynamic look. For example, if your dress is made of lace, you might pair it with a sparkly beaded necklace. Or, if your dress is sleek and modern, you might add a soft, romantic touch with a chiffon wrap or shawl.
10. Embrace Color
While traditional bridal accessories tend to be white or metallic, there's no rule saying you can't embrace color. Adding a pop of color can make your wedding day look feel fresh and modern. Consider adding a colorful sash, wearing shoes in a bright hue, or choosing jewelry with colorful gemstones.
11. Don’t Forget To Think About Your Venue
Your wedding venue can also play a role in your accessory choices. If you're getting married outdoors, you might opt for natural, bohemian-inspired accessories, like a flower crown or wooden earrings. If you're getting married in a grand ballroom, you might choose more formal, elegant accessories, like chandelier earrings or a statement necklace.
Photo by Spora Weddings.
12. Be Mindful of Your Neckline
The neckline of your dress can impact the accessories you choose. If you're wearing a high-necked dress, you might opt for statement earrings instead of a necklace. If your dress has a plunging neckline, you might choose a delicate pendant necklace or nothing at all. Be sure to consider your dress's neckline when choosing your accessories.
13. Balance Your Accessories
When accessorizing your wedding dress, it's important to create a balanced look. This means choosing accessories that complement each other and don't overwhelm your dress. For example, if you're wearing a statement necklace, you might choose smaller earrings and skip the bracelet. Or, if you're wearing statement earrings, you might choose a simple necklace and bracelet.
14. Don't Be Afraid to Mix and Match
Mixing and matching accessories can create a unique and personal look. For example, you might choose a vintage-inspired headpiece with a modern pair of earrings. Or, you might mix metals, like wearing gold and silver bracelets together. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect look.
15. Consider Your Wedding Time
The time of day that you're getting married can also impact your accessory choices. For example, if you're having an evening wedding, you might opt for more glamorous and dramatic accessories, like a statement necklace or bold cuff bracelet. If you're having a daytime wedding, you might choose more delicate and understated accessories, like a simple pendant necklace or dainty earrings.In conclusion, accessorising your wedding dress can be a fun and exciting part of wedding planning. By considering your dress style, hair, shoes, wedding theme, venue, and personal style, you can choose accessories that perfectly complement your look. And don't forget to have fun and experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect accessories for your big day.
MORE GREAT WEDDING PLANNING TIPS!
Wedding Suppliers We Think You’ll Love!
Wedding Fayres We Think You’ll Love!






