How do I select my wedding jewelry?
Although there are a few general guidelines to follow when selecting your bridal jewelry, picking items that make you feel beautiful, comfortable and reflect your personal style should be your first priority, even if it means "breaking the rules".
While pearls and diamonds are traditional wedding gems, vintage crystals or rhinestones are beautiful alternatives. Additionally, incorporating color into your wedding jewelry is a wonderful way to express your unique style. Pale pink, soft yellow and light blue are great choices.
Your jewelry should reflect the type of wedding you are having. If you are having a small, informal wedding, such as a daytime affair, keep your jewelry simple. If you are having a large, formal wedding, opt for more detailed and elaborate jewelry.
Make sure your jewelry complements the neckline of your gown. If your dress is strapless or has a low neckline, this is a perfect opportunity to showcase a fabulous necklace and earrings. If you are wearing a high neckline, forego the necklace and focus on elaborate earrings instead.
Notes About Necklaces
There are several lengths of necklaces to choose from. Below are a few tips to help you pick the length that most flatters your gown.
- The Choker is one to three strands worn close around the neck and works well with a jewel or bateau neckline. A choker can get lost if too much skin is showing.
- The Collar is made up of three or more strands that fit securely around the middle neck. This Victorian style looks lovely with a plunging or strapless neckline.
- The Princess falls below the hollow of the neck and is perfect for a pendant. This style is most often 16" and looks great with almost every bridal gown neckline, except a high neckline. If your dress is strapless, this is a great option.
- The Matinee is longer than the Princess but shorter than the Opera. This style hits the top of the bust and looks great with a bateau, jewel, or a lower neckline. It is important the necklace does not hit the top of the dress.
- The Opera is a long single strand that falls below the bust and looks classic with a very high neckline.
