When it comes to choosing the perfect bridal jewelry, there are many factors to consider – from your wedding aesthetic to your personal style. You need time to carefully select and purchase the jewelry pieces that will make you happy now, and in the future when you look back at your photos. This bridal jewelry guide covers not just your wedding rings, but every piece of jewelry you’ll wear on your special day. Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about how to buy bridal jewelry to ensure you sparkle bright on your big day.
How to Choose Wedding Jewelry for Brides
When you’re shopping for bridal jewelry, choose pieces that you feel comfortable and confident wearing. For example, if you’re used to wearing flats, breaking out a new pair of 6-inch heels for your big day is probably not the best idea. The same goes for your jewelry—wear pieces that align with your comfort. Your wedding day is about feeling your best, so let your jewelry reflect that.
1. Earrings
Earrings are crucial to your bridal look, as they draw attention to your face and complement your hairstyle. When choosing wedding earrings for brides, consider the style and neckline of your dress. For example, delicate studs or small drop earrings work well with intricate dress details, while statement chandelier earrings pair beautifully with simpler gowns. Additionally, consider your face shape – elongated earrings can balance a round face, while studs or shorter drops flatter longer faces. One important factor to keep in mind before buying bridal jewelry is ensuring your earrings align with your wedding theme and your personal style for a cohesive and polished look.
2. Necklace
When selecting a necklace, consider the neckline and style of your wedding dress. A pendant works beautifully with a V-neck dress, adding a touch of elegance without overpowering the design. For a strapless or sweetheart neckline, a choker or short necklace can create a balanced, sophisticated look. If your dress has intricate details, opt for a simpler necklace to avoid overwhelming your outfit.
3. Rings
Your engagement ring and wedding band are the stars of your bridal jewelry, but don’t be afraid to add more sparkle. Consider wearing additional rings that complement your primary pieces. If you enjoy stacking, incorporate that style into your wedding look, but be intentional about your choices. Select pieces that enhance rather than compete with your engagement and wedding rings to create balance and harmony between your rings and other jewelry.
4. Bracelets
A bracelet can be a stunning addition to your bridal look, drawing attention to your hands and wedding ring. If you choose to wear one, make sure that it pairs well with your ring stack and overall style. A classic tennis bracelet is a timeless option that adds elegance without overshadowing your other jewelry. Alternatively, you can also opt for a delicate gemstone bracelet or a single-strand pearl bracelet. Just ensure the bracelet complements your dress and other accessories.
Read: Wedding Jewelry Savings: Everything You Need to Know
Shop Bridal Jewelry
Say ‘yes’ to more sparkle.
Tips for Selecting Bridal Jewelry
If you’re still unsure, here are some helpful bridal jewelry ideas for picking the right bridal jewelry.
1. Set a Budget
Before you start shopping, decide on a budget. Make a priority list of the jewelry you need, setting a higher budget for the ones at the top. This will help you narrow down your options, making it easier to find different types of bridal jewelry within your specific budget.
You can also opt for lab-grown jewelry for your wedding day. Lab diamonds are physically, optically, and chemically the same as earth-mined diamonds, but cost up to 90% less, allowing you to get bigger diamonds without the hefty price tag.
2. Match the Metal to Your Wedding Dress
Choosing the right metal for your bridal gown jewelry is essential for creating a harmonious look with your wedding dress. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best choice:
Platinum or White Gold: Perfect for a pure white dress, these metals enhance the cool undertones of your gown, creating a seamless and elegant look.
Yellow Gold: Ideal for champagne or ivory dresses, yellow gold adds a touch of warmth and richness, complementing the subtle hues of your gown.
Rose Gold: The best match for dresses with pink undertones like blush, rose gold brings out the delicate color in your dress, adding a romantic and modern touch.
Remember, too many colors can disrupt the cohesive look you’re aiming for. Stick to a maximum of one or two metal colors, including your wedding ring set, to maintain a balanced and stylish look.
3. Take the Theme Into Consideration
If you have a specific theme for your wedding, the right jewelry can play a crucial role in bringing it to life. For example, if you’re going to have a vintage-themed wedding, you can opt for vintage-inspired jewelry with intricate details and timeless designs. If you’re having a modern minimalist wedding, choose sleek and simple designs in metals like platinum or white gold. Alternatively, if you’re having a beach wedding, consider incorporating jewelry for beach weddings like pearls, aquamarine, and so on, for a cohesive look.
4. Consider Your Personal Style
The most important aspect of choosing bridal jewelry is ensuring it aligns with your personal style. This not only makes you feel comfortable and confident on your big day but also ensures that you’ll love wearing these pieces long after the wedding. Choose timeless designs that reflect your personality and can become cherished items in your jewelry collection. Whether you prefer classic pearls, sparkling diamonds, or colorful gemstones, let your style guide your choices.
5. Don’t Forget Sentimental Jewelry
Incorporating jewelry pieces with sentimental value can add a personal and meaningful touch to your wedding attire. Whether it’s a family heirloom, a piece gifted by a loved one, or something that holds special memories, these pieces can make your bridal look even more special. When you go dress shopping, bring these sentimental items along to ensure they complement your dress and don’t feel like an afterthought. This way, you can seamlessly integrate them into your overall look.
6. Remember: Less Is More
When it comes to bridal jewelry, the saying ‘less is more’ is especially true. A simple and elegant approach is always best. Whether you decide to stack or layer your jewelry, keep it refined and understated. If you’re unsure about adding a bracelet or necklace, it’s perfectly fine to leave it out. One or two carefully selected pieces can have a more significant impact than a multitude of items. The goal is to enhance your bridal look without overwhelming it, ensuring that every piece you wear adds to your look, rather than takes away from it.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. What are some tips for buying bridal jewelry on a budget?
You can opt for lab-grown diamonds and gemstones—they are as real as natural ones but up to 80% cheaper. When it comes to metals, you can choose 14K gold or silver instead of 18K gold to save money.
Q2. How do I care for my bridal jewelry?
Clean your bridal jewelry regularly with warm soapy water and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dust and oil. Always follow specific care instructions for the metal and gemstone types.
Q3. Can I mix metals in my bridal jewelry?
Absolutely! Mixing metals can showcase your personality. For a balanced look, limit your choice to two different metals.
Q4. What to know before buying bridal jewelry?
When shopping for bridal jewelry, consider your personal style, wedding theme, and dress neckline. These factors will guide you in selecting timeless pieces that you’ll cherish for years.
