The Brides Guide To Wedding Jewellery

The attention that you give to your appearance and that of the wedding party shows, especially when it comes to jewellery. The type of jewellery chosen for a wedding has the potential to elevate your appearance or detract from it. Read on for suggestions in selecting the appropriate gems.

Jewellery and Wedding Location/Theme

When deciding upon jewellery, you should first take into consideration the type of wedding you are having. Different ceremonies call for different codes of dress. For example, a resort wedding will likely mean that the atmosphere is casual. An elaborate tiara would look out of place here, while a delicate locket may better suit the occasion.

The same holds true for themed weddings. If the bridal party is dressed as lords and ladies for a medieval wedding, their jewellery should look as though it could have been worn during that historical period. Western and Gothic-themed weddings call for casual and edgier gems, respectively. A little research beforehand will ensure that your choices coincide with the ceremony’s atmosphere.

Jewellery and Bridal Gown

It’s important for your jewellery selection to complement your wedding dress. Necklaces and strands of pearls can flatter a strapless gown, but the same pieces worn with halter-neck styles will compete for attention at the neckline. For those styles, focus on placing jewellery on areas such as the wrists or ears. Steer clear of additional rings on fingers, though. Not only do they have the potential to confound a nervous groom when he goes to place the bride’s wedding band, but they can draw attention away from a beautiful engagement ring.

You need to consider the ornateness of your wedding dress, as well. Beaded necklines, crystal-studded bodices or workings of elaborate lace in the sleeves and train have enough embellishment of their own without additional jewellery. In these cases, you may want to choose smaller accessories such as pearl studs, a teardrop pendant or a diamond tennis bracelet.

While tradition calls for wedding gems to be diamonds, pearls, or “something blue”, it’s quite acceptable to wear jewellery of a different gemstone if it poses significant meaning to you. For example, a grandmother’s emerald brooch may make a fetching hairpiece, or a ruby heart necklace gifted to you from a loved one can flatter an ensemble. If you are going for a modern or more casual wedding, there is nothing wrong with selecting gems that add a pop of fresh colour to your dress.

Jewellery For The Bridal Party

As the bridesmaids’ dresses are not to compete with that of the bride, nor should any gems they wear. You have the choice of supplying your bridesmaids with matching jewellery or allowing them to pick from an assortment of complimentary pieces. As for younger members of the bridal party, such as flower girls, jewellery should be smaller and age-appropriate.

Jewellery For The Reception

One of the things brides tend to overlook when it comes to selecting wedding jewellery is how it will coincide with their reception wardrobe. If you choose to change out of your gown into a shorter, festive dress, then your gems need to be able to make the transition, too. If that isn’t possible, no need to worry. A reception is the perfect opportunity for you to display the more colourful, unique jewellery designs that you could not or would not otherwise wear during the actual ceremony.

Choosing wedding jewellery can be an enjoyable experience. With a little bit of forethought, you can be sure that your accessories are unique and flattering.

Images from Hotsy Totsy

Ms Gingham says: Great ideas and advice. I love the idea of changing your jewellery at your reception for a more fun look!

About Francesca: My name is Francesca, I work for a startup jewellery retailer called Hotsy Totsy, I’m massively into anything fashion, jewellery, design or wedding related – just don’t tell my boyfriend about that last bit!