Weddings > Ideas & Advice > Bridal Accessories Guide

Bridal Accessories Guide

Finishing touches to complement your gown - and your style.

Details, details... No, we don't mean flowers or favors here, but the details that help make a truly beautiful you. We're talking about accessories. If you're just recovering from the momentous and often frustrating project of finding the perfect gown, you may be tempted to say, "Enough! I'll forgo all the fussy finishing touches!" Resist! The right accessories (emphasis on right) are the elements that pull the whole ensemble together and make your guests gasp when they get their first glimpse of you. We've pulled together a list of the accessories you'll need.

Headpiece and Veil
Going for the veiled look? The veil you choose should complement you (if you're petite, for example, a huge veil will only dwarf you), but should also complement your dress. A very long veil can be stunning - but if the back of your dress is particularly dramatic, you may not want to cover it up. Keep headpieces simple in relation to your dress; a very ornate gown is best with a pared-down headpiece, such as a pretty pearl headband, while a simple, clean-lined dress can take on a dramatic, jeweled tiara with a multi-layered veil. If your style is quite understated, or your wedding informal, experiment with a hat, a garland of flowers, or a decorated comb in place of a traditional headpiece or veil.

Shoes
As we all know, when your feet are in pain, you're going to have a bad day. If that day is your wedding day, well, you'll find it tough to smile. Heels shouldn't be stiletto-height - especially if you'll be dancing. A lower, sturdy heel is best for a girl on her feet all day long - we recommend 2 1/2" for comfort as well as style. As for style, your options are many. Choose a dressy fabric, such as satin, peau de soie, or silk shantung, over workaday leather. And what goes for your head also goes for your feet: Opposites attract. Pair an ornate shoe with a simple ensemble, a plain shoe with an elaborate dress. Shoes accented with lace, pearls, or crystals can mirror the details of your dress.

Lingerie
We're talking foundation, darlings. You really don't want to be wearing your plain-Jane cotton panties today. Shop for lingerie that's not only special and sexy, but that also provides support where you need it, creating a clean, smooth line under your dress. Investigate long-line, strapless bras, or the latest body slimming slips (a far cry from the constricting girdles of old!) - whatever your gown and your figure require. Go to a specialty lingerie shop or the lingerie section of a good department store (full-service bridal salons often sell lingerie) to get expertly fitted. And don't forget to wear the garments for your dress fittings!

Jewelry
When it comes to jewelry, less is more. The main attraction is you (and your dress), not your jewelry. If you normally wear lots of rings, leave them off today - wear only your engagement ring and new wedding band. Earrings shouldn't compete for attention with your headpiece and veil. For that reason, It's best to choose earrings that don't hang too low or dangle too much. As for necklaces, the traditional choice is a pearl choker or strand, or a pearl or diamond pendant (whether fine or costume jewelry). Your choice will depend on the neckline of your dress. What's hot now: everything from sleek, modern pieces to romantic, retro ones. Being simple doesn't preclude being stylish: Look for fabulous vintage items, one-of-a-kind pieces, or fun floral or butterfly accents.

Gloves
If you're wearing a strapless, sleeveless, or thin-strapped dress, gloves are a great accent, and can look very elegant. Opera-length (over the elbow) gloves work with sleeveless or strapless gowns; gloves that come to just below the elbow work best with short- or cap-sleeve gowns; and wrist-length gloves can work with just about any type of sleeve.

Accessorizing with Style

• It's worth repeating: Make sure your shoes are comfortable! Obviously this means kicks that won't cause blisters or foot cramps, but also make sure they'll stay on your feet while walking (no shuffling down the aisle) and dancing.
• If you wear gloves, make sure you can remove them smoothly during the ceremony (no teeth, please!). It's best to shed them once you reach the altar; hand them, along with your bouquet, to your maid of honor to hold.
• A long veil can be dramatic during the ceremony, but cumbersome during the reception (not to mention a potential fire hazard). You might change into a shorter veil after the ceremony and pictures - just make sure someone is trained to make the switch without ruining your hairstyle.