Saying yes to the dress doesn’t mean the process is over quite yet! Accessories are the icing on the cake to complete your bridal look and make your wedding dress your own. With so many options, bridal accessories are a great way to showcase your personality and your wedding theme. Here to answer the question “What wedding dress accessories should a bride wear?” are Wedding Wingmen Monica and Tori of Platinum Bridal. They break down ten popular bridal accessories so that you can accessorize like a pro from head to toe!
Wedding Wingman Wisdom
“Accessories are to accessorize – not to make you love the dress. The key is to love the dress first and then accessorize.”
Veil
First and foremost, the most popular bridal add-on – veils! The tulle fabric is added to complement your dress and make you feel more bridal. There are many styles of veils to choose from based on length, from four inches to several yards. Additionally, veils come in different styles and feature details like lace, rhinestones, piping, or layers. One common misconception with veils is that you have to have a certain hairstyle. In reality, there’s a perfect veil for every hairstyle! Make sure to bring your veil to your hair trial. Just keep in mind that veils are typically only featured during the wedding ceremony.
Headpiece
Top off your bridal look (literally) with hair accessories. Live out your princess dream in a wedding tiara, or opt for an embellished comb for a more scaled-back approach. A bridal headband is a practical way to go, as it’s great for holding the hair in place while adding a touch of elegant glam to your hair. Some trends we are seeing this year include hats, hair pins, fresh florals, and bows. Make sure to check out our tutorial, “How to Add a Veil, Tiara, or Flowers to Your Wedding Hair.”
Jewelry
While we know you have at least one ring covered, it’s always fun to add a bit of sparkle with earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. This is a great opportunity to check off your “something borrowed” and wear a family heirloom! Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but pearls are a bridal favorite. Look for jewelry that complements your dress and your hairstyle. Remember, less is more – the last thing you would want is for your jewelry and dress to clash. Instead, pay attention to the dress’s neckline and amount of embellishments when it comes to necklaces and bracelets. A statement dangle earring would look great for an updo, but a simple stud might be a better match for a down-do.
Bolero/Topper
Spice up your dress with a bolero or topper. Boleros are detachable sleeves that go over the top of your wedding dress and fasten in the front or back, and are typically made from lace. They range from cap to long sleeves and can be found in all neckline shapes. Toppers are similar, except they go over the head and fall freely or secure under the breasts/waist. Toppers are typically an organza material but can be found in many different types. Boleros and toppers are especially great for winter weddings and more modest venues. Even better, when you take off the topper/bolero, you’ll have a completely new look.
Fur
No winter wedding is complete without a (faux) fur. Beat the elements for an outdoor wedding/photo session or provide modesty with this accessory. Typically, fur options include a shawl, stole, wrap, and jackets in white, brown, or black. This is a great way to add texture and chicness. You could even raid your grandmother’s closet, as this accessory is another opportunity for something borrowed on your big day.
Belt
Add dimension and look snatched by drawing attention to your waist with a belt. Belts are an underrated bridal accessory that take a simple dress up a notch by adding a bit of sparkle. Typically they are tied from behind, and materials range from lace to full bling. Whether you’re looking at boho flower detailed belts or vintage-inspired satin sashes, there’s a belt for every bride. Our Wedding Wingmen love to add belts to simple dresses and/or for brides who want to accentuate their hourglass shape.
Gloves
Nothing says formal elegance like gloves. This traditional vintage accessory is something you don’t get to wear every day, so if it works with your dress, we say go for it! Gloves range in different lengths and are typically made from lace, satin, crushed velvet or organza. While lace is the most traditional, cotton and spandex blends are increasing in popularity for practical purposes. All of these styles can also be found fingerless, a modern twist on a traditional look that makes eating and the ring exchange effortless.
Garter
Bridal garters are a wedding tradition that dates back centuries. Whether or not you choose to show it off by having a garter toss at your reception, this intimate bridal lingerie piece is a great keepsake from your wedding day. Garters are typically made of lace or satin and feature flower embellishments, crystals, or pearls. Some brides like to have their monogram and/or a cheeky saying like “You’re next” for the garter toss. Additionally, this is a great way to incorporate something blue into your bridal attire without having to worry about it matching!
Shoes
Bag
We love when brides think of every last detail. While you’ll be carrying a bouquet for most of your ceremony, it’s great to have something to carry all your essentials in during your reception. You know you’ve found the perfect bag or clutch when it blends right into your outfit. For this reason, white and cream are super popular. Your bag should be just big enough for necessities like your phone, makeup products for touch-ups, mints, etc.
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