Bridal Jewelry - Choosing a Style

Follow these Rules

Bridal jewelry is rapidly becoming one of the most important parts of the bridal ensemble. At the same time, though, brides are also looking to get more out of their wedding jewelry. Even though your gown and veil might go into a box the day after your wedding, your jewelry doesn't have to. Wedding jewelry isn't just a keepsake, it's something that should be enjoyed time and time again. That's why it's especially important to take the time to select the right pieces.

Set the Stage

Think of your gown as a stage, and all of the bridal accessories you select are the actors and scenery that create a smash hit. You chose your gown because it called out your name and represents who you are. Regardless of whether its style is vintage, traditional, modern or eclectic, it serves as the backdrop for the wedding jewelry and bridal accessories you buy.

Follow your gown's motif. If, for example, your dress is adorned with radiant crystals, select bridal jewelry with matching accents. The same goes for gowns with beading or pearls.

The Neckline


There are many different styles of bridal jewelry out there, and it might be hard to decide what kind of gems to don on your special day. No matter how beautiful a bridal necklace is, if it's not suited to your gown's neckline it may never look quite right.

Gown Necklines/Suggested Necklace Styles

Strapless, Sweetheart, Off the Shoulder and Scoop: 1) Chokers 2) Rounded necklace that fits close to the throat 3) A pendant or necklace that drops to a "Y" shape
Jewel, Bateau and Square: 1) Chokers 2) Rounded necklace that fits close to the throat
Halter and V- Neck: 1) A pendant or necklace that drops to a "Y" shape 2) Lariat that is tied in front

Queen Anne and Asymmetric: 1) Earrings, bracelet and a pretty headpiece

Low Back: 1) Necklace with a back dangle or a lariat tied in the back.

For gowns with heavily beaded necklines or straps, some brides will forgo the bridal necklace completely and focus solely on the perfect pair of bridal earrings and bridal bracelet.

Theme of your Wedding


Another important factor in selecting your wedding jewelry: Will your wedding be casual or formal? Although casual weddings don't necessarily mean casual jewelry, simple tends to be the way to go. For formal weddings, often something larger and more elegant is called for - a gorgeous fan-style pearl/crystal necklace enhances your traditional bridal ensemble and makes you feel a little more glamorous in the process.

Having a color theme gives you the freedom to design a unique and individual look for your wedding while at the same time enhancing the overall glamour of the occasion. By applying color to the right places - be it your bridal jewelry, the bouquet, the table settings, or something else - you can add to the beauty and style of your special day. For example, if your wedding's color is burgundy, bring it out in the bridal ensemble by adding a touch of the rich, wine- red tone of garnet to your bridal necklace or bridal earrings. If springtime colors are more your style, the delicate lime green tone of peridot in your jewelry will perfectly accent a pastel bridal bouquet.

Your Hair

Before deciding on bridal earrings, talk to your hairstylist about how you'll wear your hair. Bring your dress or a photo to the salon several months before the wedding so the two of you can come up with a plan. This will give you time to grow out your layers and bangs, if necessary.

Once your hair plan is in place, it's time to shop. If you're wearing a traditional updo--a chignon, French twist, Juliet knot or similar style--drop earrings add drama. For short hair, chic pearl or cubic zirconia studs or a small dangle are extremely popular. And if your long, loose-flowing tresses will be accompanied by drop-dead gorgeous chandelier earrings, don't overpower them with a necklace. Less is definitely more!

Your Head Piece


Make sure your bridal headpiece matches your jewelry. A tiara composed of solid rhinestones will overpower delicate pearl jewels. And if you've chosen modern bridal jewelry dripping with cubic zirconia, a pearl headband will be too coy and traditional.


Custom Bridal Jewelry


If you are having trouble finding the right piece, you might consider having your wedding jewelry custom made. Many designers and companies will do this, and even though you may pay a bit more, it's a great feeling knowing that you didn't have to compromise your ideas to match something that just wasn't quite right. Your bridal pieces can be designed just for you, and are one of a kind. Keep in mind that the designer you choose to work with will want to know any ideas you have in as much detail as possible, and will most likely also want to see your dress (or a picture of it) as well. Be prepared!

Most Importantly!


Most importantly, remember that you wear your bridal jewelry and bridal headpiece -- they don't wear you. Choose pieces that are perfectly suited to your gown and personality. If you've never been a fan of pearls, your wedding day isn't the time to flaunt
them. You're creating a pleasing package, so make sure everything works together. Your wedding jewelry should represent part of what makes you unique!