Despite having multiple focal points throughout the day, from the dress and color scheme to the location and menu, many brides underestimate the power of accessories and risk the dangers of getting it wrong.
Below are some things you should know before picking wedding accessories.
- Upstaging the dress
No matter what jewelry theme or style you go for, remember to never upstage the dress. In years to come, the question on people's lips will be "what was your dress like?" not "what was your jewelry like?" so make sure the jewels play a supporting role to the dress and don't take center stage.
- Buying accessories before the dress
Buying the jewelry before the dress is a risky business. For many brides, the dress they end up choosing is often completely different from the one they thought they'd wear, so buying accessories – whether shoes, tiaras or jewelry – before you know the style of your dress could leave you with an overall image that looks incomplete.
- Not considering colored accessories
Don't rule out colored accessories. Adding a pop of color with jewelry is a subtle way to liven up a classic neutral color scheme. Alternatively, if you have a themed wedding, accessories are the surest way to perfect that theme throughout.
- Forgetting about what suits your skin tone
Different skin tones go beautifully with either gold or silver jewelry and if you're not sure, then ask for some advice. The same rule applies if opting for a colored stone, depending if you have a fair complexion or chocolate skin for example, find out which colors suit you best and stick to them.
- Buying trendy accessories
The wedding album will always be pulled out in future. With this in mind, you want to make sure that your choices aren't too trendy or your photos will look outdated really quickly. Opt for timeless classy pieces instead and your bridal style will always look fashionable and glamorous in years to come.
- Having everything matching
Not everything has to match – the key thing to remember is that this is your day and you need to bring your own style. Brides often get given jewelry by family members to wear for their big day and this should be embraced but finding accessories to match can be difficult particularly if it is an old family heirloom.
- Forgetting that sometimes less is more
Sometimes less is more and it isn't always necessary to have a tiara, veil, necklace, earrings, bracelets – not to mention the must-have flowers, dress, shoes and ring! Pick the right amount of accessories and don't go overboard. Be sure to try them all on together before the big day and don't be afraid to bend a bit.
- Getting carried away with the price tag
Buying accessories that will break the bank just isn't necessary. Shop around before you make your final decision and you're bound to find something in your price range. There is sometimes little difference between what jewelers call "wedding jeweler" and their other items, apart from the price so don't feel pressured into buying wedding collections; the normal jewelry sets can be just as glamorous.
- Not thinking beyond the wedding day
Let's face it, you are unlikely to wear your wedding dress or shoes after the big day, but why not choose jewelry that will look just as good when worn with any other outfit afterwards? Choosing jewelry that is versatile will ensure that you use it again and make the most of your budget.