The jewellery that you choose to wear on your wedding day is the single element that ties your whole look together. Are you looking for something glam and vintage, or delicate and feminine? Ostentatious, or subtle?
Traditionally, bridal jewellery is characterized by white crystal or pearls in a silver or gold setting. This look is timeless and lovely, but for those brides out there who are looking for something a little more unique, there are many options out there to suit any woman's style.
Coloured stones have been especially popular over the last couple of years. Pastel and brightly coloured stones are ideal for a summer or beach wedding, while richer, deeper colours are preferable for a fall or winter wedding.
Whichever style you choose, the key to selecting your wedding jewellery is balance. If the bodice of your gown is heavily beaded or embellished, forgo a necklace to avoid crowding your neckline. Opt instead for a fun pair of earrings, which will provide all of the sparkle that you need without cluttering your look. If your dress is simpler in style, or if the focus of the embellishment is at the waist or on the skirt, feel free to pair it with a larger necklace... The next thing that you will want to consider is the style of your wedding dress. Chandelier earrings or sparkling diamond or crystal necklaces complete the look of a princess-style gown. For a simpler gown, you can choose to stick with the minimalist theme by wearing a single strand of pearls or a simple pendant, or you can dress it up with a showpiece accessory.
When choosing your jewellery, it is important to consider the neckline of your gown. Pearl necklaces or diamond tennis necklaces are best suited to a round neckline. If your dress has a V-neck, a pendant or Y-style would be the most flattering. Sweetheart necklines can be worn with any style of necklace, and if your dress is of the one-shoulder or halter variety, it would be advisable not to wear a necklace at all, and choose an elaborate pair of earrings instead.
The most important thing when you are choosing your jewellery is how you intend to do your hair on the big day. Up-dos are a great way to showcase the line of the neck, and the effect can be emphasized by either a great necklace or a fun pair of earrings. For those intending to wear their hair down, go for a showier necklace and simple earrings, as the hair will most likely cover the ears. If you plan on wearing a crown or tiara, a simple pair of earrings is best to avoid cluttering the area around the face. You want your guest to see you in all of your personal radiance, not just the jewels.
Be careful when selecting your earrings to make sure that they suit the shape of your face. Chandelier and drop earrings are most flattering on an oval-shaped face, while long slim earrings suit a rounder face. Hoop-style earrings soften the lines of a rectangular face. Those with a heart-shaped face should aim for triangular or teardrop-shaped earrings, as the shape brings balance to their face. For women with a square face, small, round shapes are best.
Finding matching jewellery can be difficult, especially if you intend to match your accessories to those of your bridesmaids. Many retailers of wedding jewellery simplify this task by having sets available for purchase. Generally the matched sets consist of a necklace or pendant and a pair of earrings, but some designers may choose to add a bracelet to the line.
The pieces pictured in this post are available through Bridal Fantasy Jewellery's newly updated website.
