Often times, a bride's accessories can be forgotten because all of the focus is on finding the dress (as it should be!). Sure, the dress is the main attraction but don’t let the smaller pieces be forgotten! When it comes to bridal accessories, don't get too caught up in having everything be an exact match. Instead, try picking a theme. This will ensure your accessories go together, even if they aren't identical. Do you want glitzy and glam? Something quirky and unique? Maybe something vintage or, on the opposite end, ultra-modern. Whatever your style is, have fun with your wedding day accessories. 

Must-Have Bridal Accessories

Shoes

A comfortable pair of shoes for your wedding day is just as important as a pretty pair! You will be on your feet a lot on wedding day so make sure to find comfortable wedding shoes that you can dance in. Already set on a not comfortable pair because they are just to pretty too pass up? Try breaking them in ahead of time. You can even bring a backup pair to change into later in the night! 

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your bridal shoes. First, what type of ground will you be walking on? Grass and gravel are extremely difficult to walk on in skinny stilettos. Secondly, is there a height difference between your first and second pair of shoes, and if so, will your dress drag on the ground?  A lot of brides like to swap their heels for sneakers when it's time to dance, but don't take into consideration the inches they are losing. 

Jewelry

Aside from your engagement ring and wedding band, don’t forget about other pieces you may want to add to complete your look. Earrings are always a good choice, same with bracelets. Once you’ve decided on your dress you can determine if a necklace will work with it or not. Dresses with detailed necklines or illusion necks typically don't need a necklace. Make sure to try your necklace on while wearing your dress to make sure the length and shape looks good with your gown. 

Hairpiece or Veil

If you want to wear a veil, don’t forget to pick one out! Not sure if it’s for you? Try one on while dress shopping or during a fitting, your bridal shop is sure to have several options. Some dress silhouettes look best with short veils, while others pair perfectly with cathedral length veils. For a vintage look, you can even try a birdcage veil! Don’t forget about other hair accessories like pins and headbands. Talk to your hair stylist about what would look best and don’t forget to bring it to your trial so you can try it out!

Garter

If you plan to do a garter removal or toss, don’t forget to buy one! And then more importantly, don’t forget to put it on before the removal! Nothing is more awkward than a groom diving headfirst under a bride's dress to grab the garter, only to return empty-handed! It sounds silly, but a lot of brides forget to put this on! We recommend considering it part of your undergarments and putting it on before the dress. 

Borrowed, Blue, Old and New

Decide if you want to partake in the tradition of wearing something borrowed, blue, old and new on your wedding day. Your dress may be your something new (or old AND borrowed if it’s a family members!). Maybe your hairpiece is an old family piece and maybe your veil was borrowed from a sister! There are so many ways to incorporate this fun tradition into your wedding day. 

Bridal Accessories Complete the Look

When it comes to your wedding day, don't hold back on accessories. Try on everything you can and don't shy away from something just because you've never worn it before! Do what feels right, and try not to get too hung up on old expectations like wearing white shoes or having all of your jewelry be the same metal. Mix things up and design a look that you'll love to remember! 

Photo: Dawn Marie Photography