Finding your wedding dress is the first step to getting your wedding day look together. The dress is everything, but you know what might be even more? The wedding accessories! They are a way to express your style and individuality, making that designer dress (and therefore look) totally your own. With so many wedding accessories to choose from we could go on forever — a cape, sash, belt, or how about shoes? Jewelry, veils, tiara, and need we remind you about garters?! Indeed, the options are endless! And there are few rules when it comes to combining accessories. . . . You could don a tiara and a veil for the ultimate princess look, or maybe you want to rock a jacket and a clutch for more of a chill girl vibe. At the end of the day, it’s all about decisions. Luckily for you, we’re here to help!
Choosing Your Wedding Accessories
When it comes right down to it the choices you make when picking your wedding accessories have to come from you. They have to speak to your style, your vision for your wedding day. As with your dress, no one can tell you what to wear because only you know what you will feel most yourself in. Feeling yourself — that’s all that matters. You may want to feel sexy or bold, or casual, and that’s okay, but it has to feel you at the end of the day to give you the most genuine version of yourself. Then and only then will you truly shine. So choose your wedding accessories with intention. What pieces add to or enhance your desired look? What pieces coordinate with your dress or overall look? And conversely, ask yourself, what pieces clash with it?
Pro Tip: Accessorizing can be fun, but be careful not to over-accessorize. You want to make sure you steal the show, not all your accessories. So before your trip down the aisle, lay all your picks out and pair them with your dress to make sure you aren’t over accessorizing. And don’t be afraid to put something back — Coco Chanel said it best when she said: “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.”
And for those of you looking for specific styling advice, if you’re going for a sexy look, then you’re in luck — we have styling advice from Galia Lahav’s head designer, Sharon Sever, where he talks plenty about accessorizing! Spoiler alert: Statement pieces are a winning option for a sexy look.
Bridal Accessories A to Z
Lovies, your bridal accessory options are endless, but we’ve put together this list of little touches to help guide you in your quest for creating your perfect wedding day look from head-to-toe. YW. ;)
Hair Accessories
In the hair accessories category you’ve got your obvious (read: traditional) picks — veils and tiaras. Your veils range from face-framing, or something classic like a birdcage style, to short, mid-length or long (cathedral style including a trailing, train-length veil). Another option is to have a blusher veil, hiding your face until you reach your S.O. at the alter. Tiaras (or headpieces) can be gemstone- or crystal-filled, or more understated.
And if all that glitz and glam isn’t your style, you may want to consider a flower crown. Or perhaps forgoing all sorts of headpieces and opt for decorative hair combs, clips or pins. Another playful option is a headband.
Pro Tip: Consult with your hair stylist to make sure whatever you opt for will play nicely with your desired hairstyle, be it an updo or down-styling.
Some of Our Favorite Hair Accessories
Esther Veil by Galia Lahav
Photo by Galia Lahav
The vintage lace on the trimming of this long veil makes it truly beautiful, and the ivory tulle is unmatched. This veil would look exquisite with any dress silhouette, but for a mermaid gown the result would be stunning.
Cathedral Tulle Veil by Berta
Style: 20-009
Photo by Berta
What made this specific veil stand out to us? The delicate lace trimming, and it’s also why it’s our favorite. It looks like a veil that came straight out of Princess Diaries.
Chapel Drape Veil by Canvas Bridal
Photo by Canvas Bridal
For the bold and unique bride, this ombré veil is 95” of soft Italian tulle. Select any base and ombré color you want and your veil can be one-of-a-kind.
Swarovski Wedding Headpiece with Micro Zirconia from Ellee Couture Boutique
Photo by Ellee Couture Boutique
This luxurious headband (more like tiara) screams modern elegance. The crystals and flowers are truly magnificent, and the grand design is bound to make any bride who wears it feel like a Princess.
Pearl Hair Pins by Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
Style: Ashton
Photo by Blair Nadeau
So maybe you had hair pins in your hair for your prom, but this is not the same. Okay, maybe it’s similar, but not the same. These round glass pearls are the perfect subtle and elegant hair accessory, especially if you’re opting for no veil. The pearl hair pins will speak for themselves.
Jewelry
Wedding jewelry can give you that extra little sparkle or pizazz you might be looking for — be it a necklace, bracelet, earrings, or (engagement) ring.
As with hair accessories, we suggest you don’t make any decisions regarding your earrings until you know the hairstyle you’re going with. That could make the difference between a pair of chandelier earrings, huggies, or studs.
Now, let’s talk necklaces. This all relates back to the neckline of your wedding dress. Sometimes, it even correlates with your hair style. Would a long necklace or chocker work better? How about a string necklace or a single pendant?
Some of Our Favorite Jewelry Pieces
Sustainably Lab-created Oval Diamond Stud Earrings by Lisa Robin
Photo by Lisa Robin
Diamond studs are a simple and classic beauty. But there’s nothing “simple” about these 14k gold earrings. With a choice between yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold, these lab-created studs can also come in your preferred diamond size.
Pearl 14k Gold Hoops by Lisa Robin
Photo by Lisa Robin
Pearls are the epitome of elegant (thank you, Coco Chanel), and these pearls happen to be freshwater cultured pearls… sign us up! For a more modern approach and look, the pearls are paired with 14k gold hoops. Modern elegance.
Diamond Tennis Bracelet by Lisa Robin Jewelry
Photo by Lisa Robin
The diamonds? Lab-grown. The cut? Round brilliant. The metal? Sustainably sourced 14k gold. As is typical with lab-grown diamonds, you get to select the carat weight you want for your diamonds. It’s clearly no ordinary tennis bracelet.
Crystal Lace Bridal Bracelet by Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
Style: Bella
Photo by Blair Nadeau
There is just something about chokers that we can’t get enough of. They are literally appropriate for every ensemble. From hanging with your besties in jeans and a tank top to date night in a black cocktail dress to your wedding day, chokers look fabulous. They add to the beauty of your outfit without stealing the show but yet still leave an impression. And this hand-beaded lace one is out of this world. If you look closely you’ll see it’s beaded with rhinestones, pearls, and glass beads.
Falling in love? Wait until you see the back. The lace is connected to a lobster claw and drop chain that features a beautiful teardrop crystal rhinestone. So from the front or the back, you’re necklace will be a show-stopper.
Photo by Blair Nadeau
Single Vintage Pearl Choker by Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
Style: Camille
Photo by Blair Nadeau
We’re a total sucker for pearls (as you might’ve been able to tell) and the delicate beauty of this necklace made this one of our favorites. It doesn’t need to be a choker if you don’t want either, you can add an extender to it and make it as long as you want. Very classy, very elegant. Is it just us or is it fit for royalty?!
Tiny Pearl Fringe Necklace by Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
Style: Spencer
Photo by Blair Nadeau
Okay, so funny enough… not only is this our favorite, but it’s also Blair’s. Yep, you can say it… we have great taste. TY! Anywayyy, back to this pearl fringe necklace. Y necklaces are perfect for a deep V-neck or low cut wedding dress. Plus, those freshwater pearls are everything (just sayin’!).
Pnina Tornai Diamond Engagement Ring 2-1/3 ct tw Heart/Round 14K Rose Gold
Photo by Jared
Marilyn Monroe was so right when she said “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” They really are. Also, who doesn’t love a heart-cut diamond?
Fun fact about Pnina Tornai’s collection: The diamonds are independently certified by Gemological Science International.
Pnina Tornai Diamond Engagement Ring 2-3/4 ct tw Pear/Round 14K White Gold
Photo by Jared
This pear-cut diamond is a fashion-statement, to say the least. In addition, the round diamonds that adorn work seamlessly with the tapered-shank band.
Teardrop Crystal and Pearl Back Necklace by Blair Nadeau Bridal Adornments
Style: Sadie
Photo by Blair Nadeau
Crystals and pearls galore! Just imagine this beautiful accessory with an open back dress. Dreamy, to say the least.
Pnina Tornai Men's Diamond Wedding Ring 1/2 ct tw Round 14K White Gold
Photo by Jared
We added a men’s diamond wedding ring because why not?! Your S.O. deserves *fabulous* bling, too! Which is why this extraordinary black rope trimmed wedding band with round black diamonds is a handsome and bold choice. The intensity of the color black makes your union stand out on their hand for eternity.
Handbags
Handbags, or better yet clutches, are an important accessory often forgotten by brides. They should be small though, something just big enough to hold tissues, makeup (especially your lipstick), mints, and maybe your phone. Everything else should be given to those around you to carry — i.e., your room key for the night can easily slip in your S.O.’s pocket and your bridesmaids can handle the rest. You may opt to have something personalized with your new married name, or go with something classic from a coveted brand (can you say Jimmy Choo?!)
Some of Our Favorite Bridal Handbags or Clutches
White Suede Clutch Bag with All-Over Pearl Embellishment by Jimmy Choo
Style: Micro Cloud
Photo by Jimmy Choo
The all-over pearls make this a timeless clutch that can be used even after the wedding day. In addition to the pearls, the clasp on the clutch is made of crystals adding another element of elegance to the bag.
Latte Leather Clutch Bag with Crystal-Embellished Gold JC Emblem by Jimmy Choo
Style: Avenue Clutch
Photo by Jimmy Choo
The crystal embellishments and gold touches are seriously working. Moreover, this clutch features a fold-over design that never goes out of style, and to make matters even better, it consists of a gold chain strap that is detachable so you can wear it anyway you want now.
Envelope Flap Pouch by Yves Saint Laurent
Photo by Yves Saint Laurent
So if you didn’t already pick up on it, we’re sorta obsessed with anything with a detachable element. Why? Two looks in one! Regardless, we’re talking about this beautiful Yves Saint Laurent pouch right now. This cotton-lined pouch has a detachable wristlet component so you can wear it around your wrist or under your arm (or have your S.O. carry it for you…who knows…😉).
Flower Strass Buckle Clutch in Fabrics by Roger Vivier
Photo by Roger Vivier
It was the Maison’s Buckle that caught our attention, but it was the crystal flowers that made us stay. Oh, and the glitter is an undeniable win.
Happily Ever After Beaded Clutch Purse by Twine and Love
Photo by Twine and Love
This shoulder or clutch purse (depending on whether you keep the gold chain) features hand-sewn beads. Of course, it’s the wording “Happily Ever After” that makes this the perfect purse for your wedding.
Underwear
This should really read: Under-wear, because we’re talking all things that go under your wedding dress. That means shapewear, a bra or lingerie, hosiery, or even a garter. This is an excellent way to incorporate a little tradition, like your something blue or something borrowed (garters only for a something borrowed, please !). You can also play with textures here — no one has to know you’re sporting a little lace number. ;) Ultimately, this category of wedding accessories is all about self-confidence and self-love. Find what works for you and what makes you feel your best.
And if you need a little inspiration to get started in this category, we’ve got a clip of the most epic garter toss. But first, a word about bras: Finding a bra that works with a wedding dress can be challenging, frustrating even, but it’s possible (yes, even if you have a plunging neckline or backless dress). And remember a bra with an underwire is your best bet if you don’t have an open back wedding dress or a built-in bodice. Why? It’s all about the cleavage, lovies, it also gives the most form-flattering silhouette for any style of wedding dress.
Some of Our Favorite Underwear
Classic Bridal Garter Set from Ella Winston Co.
Photo by Kristen Kay Photography
This satin garter is totally customizable — garter set color, ribbon color, even bow size!
Design Your Own Embroidered Bridal Garter Set from Ella Winston Co.
Photo by Ella Winston Co.
Say it loud, say it proud! You’re married! You can personalize each side of the bow to resemble a memory. For instance, one side can have your new married name and the other your wedding date. And because it’s so neat, it can be a keepsake. How cool is that?!
Embroidered White Lace Bridal Garter Set from Ella Winston Co.
Photo by Ella Winston Co.
This set allows you to have two garters, one for you to toss and one for you to keep. And we’re loving the “You’re Next” concept Ella Winston Co. utilizes. It’s sorta adorable…
Bella Embroidery Bustier from Fleur du Mal
Photo by Fleur du Mal
We don’t know about you, but we can attest to the fact that some bustiers are straight up uncomfortable. They “bone structure” in them is hard and by the time it comes to you taking it off at the end of the night, you’re left with a physical reminder of the hard (we’re gonna call it equipment) equipment you wore. But Fleur du Mal boasts this is a soft bone structure that utilizes your natural shape to give you an extra lift with the cups.
Bridal Luxe Thong from Fleur du Mal
Photo by Fleur du Mal
First off, the embroidery on the front of the thong that reads “Bride” is EVERYTHING. Sure it’s not seamless… but it has such barely-there seams that you’re covered.
Side note: Fleur du Mal has a luxe bridal garter that we also happen to love (just sayin’). Told ya we love shopping!
Backless Strapless Bra from Victoria’s Secret
Photo by Victoria’s Secret
Hello! It’s backless. It’s strapless. It’s totally made for an open back, strapless dress. Have you seen anything more genius?!
And then there’s the obvious picks: anything from SKIMS because Kim Kardashian absolutely knows how to make shapewear ! ;)
Outerwear
For a winter bride, this category is a definite necessity. For all others, this can be another fun accessories category, showing off your style. Outwear can run the gamut from belts and sashes to capes, wraps (shawls) and jackets. And don’t forget bridal gloves!
You could have fun with the material too, especially if you’re considering a jacket — think: denim, leather or faux-fur. Or for a shawl or wrap you may want something sparkly that has a little extra beading or bling.
Pro Tip: If you opt for a jacket, get it personalized (embroidered or such) with your new married name.
Some of Our Favorite Outerwear
Ivory Detachable Cape by Maggie Sottero Designs
Style: Carrington
Photo by Maggie Sottero Designs
If you’re a fan of regal-inspired weddings or even vintage looks (we’re calling out you fellow Bridgerton fans 😉), then this floor-length lace cape is totally for you. Paired with the Montgomery gown by Sottero & Midgley, between the lace illusion on the cape and the floral lace on the gown, you’re going to be a knockout.
Ivory Detachable Jacket by Maggie Sottero Designs
Style: Drew
Photo by Maggie Sottero Designs
This beaded jacket is the perfect choice to turn a strapless dress into an off-the-shoulder look (with sleeves to boot) within seconds. Can you say wedding and reception look?! Paired with the Drew gown by Maggie Sottero, the beaded illusion corset looks divine with the beaded detachable jackets.
Personalized Mrs Denim Jacket
Style: Threetwoone
Photo by David’s Bridal
Shout it from the rooftops, tell the world — or just wear it on your back… This denim jacket is personalizable and oh so fab! We can just see it now: wear it fully, just on your shoulders, or toss it over your shoulder… Your photos will be everything!
Floral Lace Detachable Train by Maggie Sottero Designs
Style: Viola
Photo by Maggie Sottero Designs
Bring on the dramatics, because this 105 inch long train is bound to capture everyone’s attention. Buttt the best part? You can remove it for the reception so you can dance the night away without worrying about the long train behind you. Win-win-win.
Friendly Tip: This train has been modeled with the Viola style dress by Sottero & Midgely and it’s a perfect match.
Old Hollywood-inspired Detachable Bow Train by Maggie Sottero Designs
Style: Foster
Photo by Maggie Sottero Designs
If you’ve been following along with our blog or IG, you probably know by now that we’re BIG fans of Old Hollywood-inspired fashion. Anywayyy, it’s only natural we love this romantic Old Hollywood-inspired bow train from Maggie Sottero. Plus, bows are still trending so you’ll be in style and chic.
Want to totally embrace the Old Hollywood glamour vibe, then you might want to consider pairing this exquisite bow train with the Foster gown by Maggie Sottero.
Long Lace Detachable Sleeves by Maggie Sottero Designs
Style: Brette
Photo by Maggie Sottero Designs
We are total suckers for a lace sleeve and when that sleeve happens to have buttons? Be still our beating hearts. The buttons are at the wrist and they’re the perfect addition to the sleeve.
Going for full-on bohemian vibes? Try pairing these sleeves with the Brette fit-and-flare gown by Rebecca Ingram.
Satin Opera Gloves by Cornelia James
Style: Hermione
Photo by Cornelia James
Ever watched the opera scene from Pretty Woman and wanted to dress to the nines in a classic ensemble like Julia Roberts? Us, too! And with these bridal opera gloves from Cornelia James, here’s your chance. These satin opera gloves are made with Duchess Satin that are a classic choice.
Tulle Opera Gloves by Cornelia James
Style: Arabella
Photo by Cornelia James
Satin is not for everyone and it could be considered quite stiff, especially when compared to the delicate fabric of these tulle bridal opera gloves. Not to mention, they’re chic, and as Cornelia James’ describes them, décontractée (read: relaxed).
Feathered Satin Opera Gloves by Cornelia James
Style: Ariadne
Photo by Cornelia James
Feathers, feathers, and more feathers! The ostrich feathers on these satin gloves had us doing a double take, and it’ll have your guests doing one, too. They’re fashion-forward and enchanting.
Shoes
No wedding accessories list would be complete if it forgot about your dancing feet! You certainly need something fabulous to walk down the aisle and dance the night away. Options include a chunky heel or wedge that you can rock all day, or something more glamorous and classic on your tootsies. You may even be enticed by the idea of pure comfort, opting for a pair of fancy, sparkly sandals or ballet flats.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to change your shoes between the ceremony and reception. Start fabulous and end comfy! And you might consider getting soft slippers or flip flops that you can have personalized for your getting ready moment.
Some of Our Favorite Shoes
Kiara Embellished Peep-toe Pump by Badgley Mischka
Photo by Badgley Mischka
We love a *fabulous* pair of heels and these heels fit the bill. Sapphire blue (so they can be your something blue, duh). Rhinestone embellishments on the back of the heel (just like Bella Swan’s extraordinary heels from her wedding to Edward Cullen in Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part 1). Cocktail. Evening. Just ‘cause. Your wedding. A friend’s wedding. They can be worn for any and everything. And we strongly encourage they are, because you will slay in these heels!
Ivory Satin Pumps with Crystal Embellishment by Jimmy Choo
Style: Saeda 100
Photo by Jimmy Choo
These pointed toe, stiletto heel pumps make a statement, to say the very least. Decorated with a line of crystals around the ankle and down the heel to complete the look, your shoes just became the ultimate accessory for your feet.
Champagne Coarse Glitter Fabric Pointy Toe Pumps by Jimmy Choo
Style: Romy 85
Photo by Jimmy Choo
Looking for a shoe that’s not white? Cool, cool. These leather-lined heels with champagne-colored glitter fabric may just be the perfect fit (see what we did there?!). The best part is they’re total party shoes, so you can wear them after the wedding — say, on a night out on the town with your besties or to your S.O.’s work Christmas party (if you want to make a total statement ❤️🔥).
Hot Chick Pump by Christian Louboutin
Photo by Louboutin
The design of this pointed toe heel is elegant, timeless, and classy. If you’re a shoe lover or have just been dreaming of owning a pair of Louboutins since you were old enough to recognize the red-bottoms (who hasn’t?!), then you may have seen the Hot Chick style in nude and black before. However, with Maison Christian Louboutin’s bridal edit collection, you can now get them in white for your big day. And the V-shaped notches on either side are sure to wow your guests as you strut down the aisle.
Kate Pump by Christian Louboutin
Photo by Louboutin
Ah, we live in a world of red-soled shoes and invite you to do the same! Be a show-stopper with these chic red sleek and glossy fashion-forward heels that are red with red soles (of course!).
ICYMI: We had a bride in the summer issue of Celebrate Weddings that wore this exact pair and it was EVERYTHING.
White Satin Jewel Buckle Pumps by Manolo Blahnik
Style:
Photo by Manolo Blahnik
If you’re anything like us you’ve been loving Manolo Blahniks since Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City got her pair from Mr. Big. Anddd these are pointed toes with a crystal leaf accessory on the top…psst…styling idea? Wear these with a crystal hair accessory. Might we suggest the Crystal Nebula Hairpins from Azazie.
Lucinda Lace by Galia Lahav
Photo by Galia Lahav
The marriage of lace and satin on this heel is the perfect nod to modern fashion. These shoes are for the bride looking to make a statement with a unique style shoe.
Amour Dress Sandal by Pnina Tornai for Naturalizer
Photo by Naturalizer
This entire collection from Pnina Tornai for Naturalizer boasts “couture style for luxe comfort.” This open toe heel, in particular, really outdoes itself being couture, luxe, and totally trending because of the oversized bow factor.
Hero photo courtesy of Cornelia James