You’ve found the dress – now it’s time to add the finishing touches. The right accessories can take your wedding outfit from beautiful to breathtaking, allowing you to express your personality and complete your bridal look with confidence. From veils and jewellery to shoes and hairpieces, the details really do matter.
Here’s how to choose accessories that will complement your gown, suit your style and make you feel amazing on your big day.
Choosing the right veil
The veil is one of the most traditional bridal accessories, adding romance, drama or vintage flair to your overall look. But choosing the right one depends on several factors, including the style of your dress, the vibe of your wedding and even the size of the venue – the bigger the space, the bigger the veil! Here are some of the most popular styles…
- Cathedral veil – at 114 inches/290cm, this is a grand and theatrical veil. Ideal for formal ceremonies, it works beautifully with ballgowns or dramatic A-line styles.
- Chapel veil – at 96 inches/244cm, a chapel veil offers elegant flow and sophistication without overpowering the dress, making it an excellent match for fit-and-flare or mermaid silhouettes.
- Fingertip veil – at 42 inches/106cm, this versatile option suits most dress styles and body shapes. Ideal if you’re aiming for a modern yet classic look.
- Birdcage veil – short and chic, this retro-inspired face veil is perfect for tea-length dresses or vintage-themed weddings.
Picking jewellery that complements
Jewellery can enhance your wedding outfit, but it’s all about finding the right balance. You want pieces that highlight your features and dress, without competing for attention.
- If your dress has intricate beading or embellishments, keep your jewellery simple. Think delicate stud earrings, a fine bracelet or a classic pendant.
- With minimalist gowns, you can go bold – chandelier earrings, layered necklaces or a statement cuff can add personality and drama.
- Metal matters – silver, platinum and white gold pair well with bright white gowns, while warmer metals such as yellow or rose gold flatter ivory, cream or champagne-coloured dresses.
Your jewellery should also reflect you. Whether you opt for vintage, glam, boho or modern, it should feel like a natural extension of your style.
Wedding shoes: comfort meets style
Let’s talk shoes. Yes, they need to look stunning – but they also need to carry you through the day without blisters, pinching or regrets.
- Heel height – if you’re not used to stilettos, don’t feel pressured to wear them. Kitten heels, block heels or even stylish flats can be just as elegant, and far more comfortable. Platform soles are also fantastic for cushioning feet through the hours of standing – and dancing!
- Consider your venue – outdoor weddings on grass or sand don’t mix well with thin heels. Wedges or bridal flats are practical and pretty alternatives.
- Dress harmony – classic gowns pair well with satin or lace-covered shoes, while modern or minimalist dresses can look great with a pop of colour or sparkle on your footwear.
And remember – you don’t have to go white. Many brides are now opting for blush tones, champagne, metallics or even “something blue” for their wedding shoes.
Hair accessories to complete your look
Hairpieces can subtly tie your look together or become the standout feature of your bridal style.
Here are a few popular options:
- Tiaras – a delicate tiara can add a regal or fairytale touch. Ideal for traditional or formal weddings, especially when paired with a sleek updo or classic curls.
- Floral crowns – whether made with real blooms or delicate faux flowers, these are beautiful for boho, rustic or garden weddings.
- Hairpins and combs – crystal, pearl or embellished pins can add understated sparkle to any hairstyle, from romantic waves to elegant buns.
- Headbands – great for vintage or 1920s-inspired looks, or simply to add a modern twist to your hair.
When choosing a hairpiece, consider your hairstyle, dress neckline and veil (if you’re wearing one). Everything should work together harmoniously – not compete for attention.
Don’t forget your personal touches
Your accessories are an opportunity to bring sentimental or meaningful elements into your outfit – perfect for your “something old, something new”. Maybe it’s your grandmother’s brooch, your mum’s wedding earrings or a necklace gifted by your partner. These little details can hold special significance and make you feel even more connected on the day.
If you’ve been on your LighterLife journey and have achieved your weight-loss goals, you might find that your body shape has changed – or simply been revealed in new ways. Accessories can help highlight your favourite features, draw attention to your neckline, waist or face, and make you feel confident and radiant. Whether you’re embracing a new silhouette or discovering a different sense of style, it’s all about choosing what makes you feel beautiful.
The best accessory? Your confidence!
Accessories are the finishing touches that bring your entire bridal look together. They should complement your dress, reflect your personal style and help you feel confident from head to toe. Whether you go classic and understated or bold and fashion-forward, the right accessories will elevate your look and help you shine on your special day.
Above all else, choose pieces that feel like you. Because the most beautiful accessory a bride can wear is confidence – and that comes from feeling comfortable, happy and proud of how far you’ve come.
Looking for more wedding inspiration? Read our Complete guide to wedding dress fabrics to choose the perfect material for your gown.
Related posts:
Choosing the perfect wedding dress for your body shape
Your stress-free timeline for wedding dress shopping
Wedding weight-loss plan: feel confident & radiant on your big day
