Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime affair; small details matter, especially your jewelry. Wedding jewelry can elevate your look, complement your attire, and become cherished mementos for years.
Whether you’re the bride, groom, or part of the wedding party, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the perfect wedding day jewelry.
Start With Your Outfit
When choosing your wedding day jewelry, start with your outfit. The style of a wedding dress, neck, and embellishments are essential in determining what kind of jewelry a bride should wear. If the dress has heavy detailing or beading, opt for less elaborate jewelry that will not overpower your ensemble.
You can go for statement bold pieces if the gown is minimalist or plain.
Match the Metals
Coordinating the metal tones of your jewelry with your outfit and overall wedding theme creates a cohesive look. White gold, platinum, and silver best set off cool-toned dresses, while yellow and rose gold work well with a warm or ivory hue. Mixed-metal jewelry is an excellent way to modernize the look, but it should be balanced to avoid clashing.
Don’t Forget the Rings
Your wedding rings are the most essential piece of jewelry for your big day. They symbolize your commitment and will be worn every day. Choose rings that reflect your style and values, whether a classic gold band, a Lab Grown diamond-studded design, or a unique alternative like a wooden or titanium ring. Consider engraving a special message inside the band for added sentiment.
Consider the Wedding Theme and Venue
The wedding’s theme and venue can provide a massive inspiration for the type of jewelry you want to wear. An elegant beach wedding may call for pearls or turquoise, while a glamorous ballroom wedding may be the perfect setting for diamonds and sparkling crystals. Earthy tones often go well with vintage-inspired pieces for rustic or outdoor weddings.
Less Is More
When it comes to wedding day jewelry, it’s often the case that “less is more.” Too many accessories can distract from your overall look, so stick to a few that complement your outfit.
For brides, this usually means a necklace and some earrings, a bracelet, and perhaps one hair accessory. For grooms, a classic watch, cufflinks, and a tie bar or a lapel pin will make your attire extra special without overdoing it.
Choose Timeless Designs
While it can be very tempting to jump into trends, choosing timeless jewelry ensures that your wedding day look will stay chic and current for years to come with each photo taken.
Timeless options, from classic diamond studs and pearl necklaces to a delicate gold or silver band, are never out of style. If desired, you can give them a touch of modernity without overshadowing their timelessness.
Add in Something Sentimental
Adding a sentimental touch to your wedding jewelry can make your day all the more special. It could be a family heirloom, a piece given by a loved one, or even custom jewelry engraved with your wedding date or initials. These touches add a layer of meaning to your ensemble and create lasting memories.
Keep Comfort in Mind
Your wedding day will have a lot of movement, from walking down the aisle to dancing at the reception. Your jewelry should be comfortable to wear for long stretches.
Avoid earrings that are too heavy or bracelets that may catch on your dress. Try on your jewelry with your outfit in advance to ensure a comfortable fit and avoid any big-day surprises.
Consider your neckline
For brides, consider the placement of your jewelry concerning the placement of your dress’s neckline. Sweetheart or strapless necklines lend themselves to a show-stopping necklace or bold earrings. High necks look beautiful with a delicate stud or drop earring. V-neck dresses are gorgeous with a pendant necklace or a few layered chains. If you wear a veil, remember that your earrings and/or hair pieces don’t need to fight your veil.
Groom’s Accessories
There are many ways for men to accessorize for their wedding day. Cufflinks are classic and can feature an initial or significant symbol in a gemstone. A good watch adds elegance, but adding a tie bar or even a lapel pin can complete an overall polished appearance. Consider coordinating your accessories with the bride’s jewelry to create cohesion in your wedding photos.
Jewelry for the Wedding Party
If you’re selecting jewelry for your bridesmaids or groomsmen, aim for pieces that complement their outfits and the wedding theme. Gifting your wedding party matching or coordinated jewelry can be a thoughtful and practical gesture. For example, bridesmaids can wear matching necklaces or earrings, while groomsmen can sport identical cufflinks or tie bars.
Plan Ahead
Do your jewelry shopping well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Custom pieces or engravings may take weeks, so give yourself ample time for adjustments or delivery delays. Try your jewelry with your entire wedding outfit well in advance to ensure everything looks perfect together.
Stay True to Your Style
Your wedding day celebrates your unique love story; your jewelry should reflect your style. If you’re not comfortable with flashy accessories, opt for minimalist designs. If bold and dramatic is more your vibe, don’t shy away from statement pieces. The key is to feel confident and authentic in your choices.
Budget Wisely
While getting carried away is easy, set a budget for your wedding jewelry and stick to it. Quality pieces don’t have to break the bank, and plenty of more affordable options offer elegance and durability. Prioritize, such as with your wedding bands, and allocate your budget as necessary.
Your wedding jewelry should be featured in your wedding pictures. Let your photographer know which pieces hold special meaning or are particularly unique so they can capture close-ups of them. These details add depth and emotion to your wedding album, allowing you to revisit the memories tied to each piece.