It's finally time for finishing touches! Adding accessories to your gown makes the look come together in an elegant and sophisticated way, so let's explore your countless options. First of all, remember that though it's a special day, you shouldn't feel pressure to stray too far from your personal sense of style. There really are no rules when it comes to your attire on your wedding day—you are the star of the show and wearing what makes you feel most like yourself is an important part of the event.
General Wedding Gown Accessory Tips
Bridal is entirely preference. But, if you're looking for a bit more guidance, here's the inside scoop. Most bridal experts suggest that you try to match your metals, remember that less is more, note that comfort is key, and consider options beyond just jewelry. While we don't have an official list of dos and don'ts for wedding dress accessories, at Alexandra's Boutique we recommend you stay true to your personal style, but don't be afraid to push yourself a little bit out of your comfort zone. Many stunning combinations occur by accident!
Read on to gain some inspiration for how to choose accessories for your wedding dress.
Necklaces
When it comes to wedding dress accessories, many brides assume they will want to wear a necklace. But, necklaces can end up competing with the neckline of your dress and becoming an unnecessary focal point. Oftentimes brides opt for bigger earrings instead of a necklace because you don't want the outfit to look too busy. Remember, less is more.
Shoes
When choosing your shoes, keep in mind that your dress is being altered to your height in heels so remain consistent in terms of height if you're planning to wear more than one pair of shoes throughout the event.
Shoes are a great way to show pops of color or add in nods to your personal style. Because of this, consider altering your dress to have a shorter hem, like a inch above the floor, so that your guests are able to see your shoes.
Lastly, make sure you’re happy with them aesthetically as well as in terms of comfortability. Maybe even take some time to break them in thoroughly beforehand!
Veils
Though veils are very traditional, they aren't at all necessary if you prefer to not wear one. This being said, we do love a great gown-veil pairing, so here are a few bits of knowledge on the subject.
Tapered fingertip veils work wonderfully with a dress that has an opulent train because from the front, you get the shorter elbow length look and from the back, you get a beautiful fountain effect. This option also doesn’t take away from the main event—your dress.
Sheer slip cut veils blend into the dress and, in effect, create a very elegant and subtle overall look.
Cathedral-length lace veils are clean and traditional, which is why you can’t go wrong with this type of sophisticated and classic look. This type of veil typically compliments any dress perfectly.
Lastly, french net fabric veils cover the back of the dress a bit more because it’s a thicker fabric when compared to the usual tulle. These veils very much give off a statement vibe and work well with more simple dresses.
Belts
A different belt can give the same dress a completely unique look. Because the belt becomes a true focal point on the bride, your belt options depend heavily on the style of your dress.
On a lace mermaid style gown, go for a clean and fitted medium-sized belt with bigger stones to make the waist area pop, but not overwhelmingly so. This belt won't take away from the look of the dress, but will accentuate the silhouette. Take note of the color of the jewels on your gown—for example, gold, silver, white, ivory, cream—and be sure to match those in your belt.
On an A-line dress, consider if you want a ribbon belt or a continuous belt that has the look of being attached to the dress with jewels all the way around. Both work well with this style of dress, but result in very different looks.
In a ball gown silhouette, consider opting for a belt with a bigger main focal point in the middle, smaller delicate jewels surrounding, and a tapered look around the sides. Or choose a dainty piece, perhaps adorned with opals to allow the belt to stand out, that is consistently thin all around to accentuate the waist area.
Check out Enzoani’s latest video for tips on how to complete your bridal look with the perfect wedding dress accessories!
Visit Alexandra's Boutique
Once you have your perfect dress picked out and are knowledgeable about the potential when it comes to accessories, it's time to add in the stunning details to complete the look. Accessories help to pull together the outfit and should not be taken lightly. Veils, tiaras, belts, hair garnishes, earrings, and bracelets should all be considered, though not necessarily included. Our stylists at Alexandra's Boutique are here to help you find the perfect pieces to complement your dress and your natural beauty.
By booking an accessories appointment, you're able to chat with an expert about the best way to accessorize on your big day. This styling appointment consists of an hour long session with one of our skilled stylists. You're welcome to bring two or three guests to help you make these important decisions about your wedding dress add ons. Schedule an appointment with our team of specialists today or shop our wedding dresses and accessories online.