Creating A Wedding Necklace: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding necklace is an important accessory for a bride's big day. It can add a lot to a bride's overall look, especially if the wedding gown is simple and minimalist, or has a low or plunging neckline. The right necklace can complement the wedding gown, working well with its neckline, and blending with any other jewellery the bride chooses to wear. There are many types of necklaces to choose from, including chokers, pendants, lariats, multi-strand necklaces, princess necklaces, collars, and graduated necklaces. When choosing a wedding necklace, it is important to consider the style and neckline of the wedding dress, as well as the bride's personal style and preferences.

Choosing the right necklace for your wedding dress

Choosing the right necklace to complement your wedding dress is an important part of curating your bridal look. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect piece:

Neckline

The style of your dress's neckline will play a significant role in determining the type of necklace you should choose. Here are some common types of necklines and the necklaces that pair well with them:

• Strapless gowns or off-the-shoulder dresses leave the neck and shoulders bare, allowing you to highlight your chest with a statement necklace. A bold piece like a collar, choker, or multi-strand necklace will draw attention to your collarbones and create a striking look. If you prefer something more subtle, opt for a refined necklace or choker, or even forgo the necklace altogether and opt for long earrings instead.
• V-neck silhouettes are a classic choice that accentuates the décolletage. To complement this neckline, opt for a necklace that mirrors its shape, such as a lariat or pendant. The deeper the V, the longer the necklace can be.
• Sweetheart necklines are a romantic choice that emphasises the bust. If the bodice of your dress is made of lace or decorated with pearls or rhinestones, opt for refined jewellery. A smooth fabric calls for jewellery with pearls and/or crystals. A short necklace with a pendant can accentuate the sweetheart neckline beautifully.
• High-neck bridal gowns can easily be overdone when it comes to accessories, especially if the dress already has details like lace, rhinestones, or other embellishments. In this case, it is best to skip the necklace and opt for statement earrings and a bracelet instead.
• Square necklines are simple yet beautiful and emphasise your collarbones and décolleté. When choosing a necklace for this style, ensure it doesn't sit too close to the dress. A choker or short necklace will create space and draw attention to your collarbones, and can be paired with subtle earrings or a bracelet.
• Round necklines, including boat necklines, scoops, and U-necks, are classic looks. For those with wider shoulders, a slightly narrower neckline can create a balanced effect. A necklace with three freshwater pearls or a similar chain can complement this style. If you have a scoop neckline, consider a round necklace, like a choker, to make the neck stand out.
• Halter necklines typically eliminate the need for a necklace as the bare shoulders and neck become focal points. If your dress isn't made of lace or decorated with pearls or crystals, you can opt for subtle earrings. A halterneck is also a perfect dress style to showcase a statement bracelet.
• One-shoulder dresses create an asymmetrical neckline. This playful style suits everyone but can make it difficult to wear a necklace, as much of the piece would be covered. Opt for statement earrings and a bracelet on the bare arm to balance your look.

Dress Style

The embellishments and fabric of your dress will also influence your choice of jewellery. Here are some tips based on different dress styles:

• If your gown is embellished with gems or pearls, match those embellishments with your necklace. For instance, opt for a pearl necklace if your gown has pearls, or a diamond accessory if your dress is embellished with crystals.
• Minimal or non-embellished gowns give you more freedom when choosing a necklace. Let your personal aesthetics shine and use the neckline of your dress to guide your decision.
• Lace wedding dresses can be paired with vintage-inspired jewellery, like pearl necklaces or diamond studs. Laser-cut lace gowns offer a bohemian vibe that pairs well with oxidised silver and turquoise stones.
• The colour of your gown can also guide your choice of jewellery. White or black gowns pair well with cooler-toned metals like platinum or silver, while ivory or champagne-coloured dresses complement gold jewellery. If your gown is blush, try rose gold to coordinate with the soft pink hue.

Additional Tips

• Start by picking a metal that complements your gown, especially if it is embellished. Common metals include yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and sterling silver.
• Consider making your jewellery your "something old" by borrowing a special heirloom piece from a close family member or friend.
• Avoid too many colours when it comes to your necklace. While a coloured gemstone can be beautiful, bold or multicoloured pieces may clash with a white or ivory dress.
• Try to buy a necklace that matches your earrings or, at the very least, keep them similar. Mix metals only if you are comfortable doing so.

Remember, the perfect necklace will complement your gown without competing with it. It should showcase your personal aesthetic and enhance the vibe you want to achieve on your special day.

Necklace types and trends

Necklaces are a great way to showcase your personality and style on your wedding day. Whether you're looking for something simple and elegant or a bold statement piece, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types of wedding necklaces:

• Chokers: Chokers sit close to the neck and can add a touch of sophistication to your wedding ensemble. They typically range from 14 to 16 inches in length.
• Pendants: Pendant necklaces feature a chain with a charm or gem hanging at the bottom. They are usually 18 inches long but can vary in length. Pendants are a versatile and classic choice.
• Lariat: A lariat necklace is a long necklace that can be designed up to 34 inches in length. It creates a hanging pendant with a "Y" shape.
• Multi-strand: Multi-strand necklaces consist of multiple chains ranging from 14 to 24 inches in length. These strands can be adorned with gemstones, beads, or pendants.
• Princess: Princess necklaces have a bib-like design with multiple strands of gemstones or beads draping across the collarbone. They typically hang between 16 to 18 inches.
• Collar: Collar necklaces hug the neck instead of hanging and are usually 12 to 14 inches in length.
• Graduated: Graduated necklaces feature beads of different sizes, with the smallest beads at the clasp and the largest in the centre. They are generally between 14 to 16 inches long.

When choosing a wedding necklace, it's important to consider the neckline and style of your dress. For a strapless gown, for example, a bolder necklace like a collar, choker, or multi-strand piece can make a statement. On the other hand, if you're wearing a V-neck or sweetheart neckline, a simple pendant necklace may be a better choice.

Some of the latest trends in bridal necklaces include pearl jewellery, unique shapes like flowers and hearts, and coloured gemstones. You can also incorporate "something old" or "something blue" into your necklace choice, such as a hand-me-down necklace or a piece with a blue gemstone.

In terms of metals, yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and sterling silver are the most common options. You can also find necklaces with unique chains, such as paper-clip, box, herringbone, or rope chains.

How to choose the best wedding necklace

Choosing the perfect wedding necklace is an important part of your bridal look. Here are some tips to help you select the best one:

Consider Your Dress and Neckline:

The neckline of your wedding dress will play a crucial role in determining the style of your necklace. If you have a strapless, off-the-shoulder, or bateau neckline, bolder necklaces like chokers or multi-strand pieces can complement the exposed collarbones and shoulders. For plunging necklines, a bold lariat-style necklace adds a touch of glamour, while a simple pendant works well with a V-neck or sweetheart neckline. If your dress has a high or halter neckline, you may want to forgo a necklace to avoid fabric snagging or clashing with the dress design.

Match Your Dress Style:

If your wedding gown is embellished with gems or pearls, reflect this in your necklace choice. Opting for a pearl necklace to match a pearl-embellished gown or a diamond accessory to pair with crystal details creates a cohesive look. Minimal or non-embellished dresses offer more freedom to choose a style that aligns with your personal taste and the neckline of your dress.

Metal and Colour Choices:

When it comes to metals, yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and sterling silver are popular options. Choose a metal that complements your gown, especially if it has embellishments. If your headpiece features silver and pearls, for example, consider continuing this theme with your necklace. Avoid too many colours, as they may clash with your dress. A coloured gemstone can add interest, but bold or multi-coloured pieces might detract from a white or ivory dress.

Statement vs. Simple:

The level of detail on your wedding dress should guide your necklace choice. If your gown is heavily detailed or embellished, a simple necklace will ensure your accessories don't overwhelm the outfit. In this case, opt for dainty pieces like a diamond tennis necklace or gemstone pendant. Conversely, a statement necklace can elevate a simple wedding dress.

Personalisation and Sentiment:

Your wedding jewellery is an opportunity to showcase your personality and wear something meaningful. Consider incorporating a "something old" piece, like a family heirloom, or opt for a colourful "something blue" necklace for a touch of colour and sentiment.

Remember, your wedding necklace should complement your dress and overall bridal aesthetic. It's a chance to showcase your style and draw attention to your beautiful gown.

Matching your necklace to your dress

Matching your necklace to your wedding dress is an important consideration when it comes to your bridal look. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect necklace that complements your dress:

Neckline Considerations

The neckline of your wedding dress will play a crucial role in determining the style of necklace you choose. If you're wearing a strapless, off-the-shoulder, or bateau neckline, consider bolder necklaces like a collar, choker, or multi-strand piece. These styles complement the exposed collarbones and shoulders without detracting from the gown. For a plunging or V-neck neckline, a simple pendant or lariat-style necklace is ideal, as it mirrors the shape of the neckline elegantly. Gowns with sweetheart necklines also pair well with pendants, echoing the shape of the dress. If you've chosen a high-neck or halter-style dress, you may want to forgo a necklace altogether to avoid fabric snagging and instead, opt for statement earrings or hair accessories.

Dress Style and Details

The style and details of your wedding dress are also key factors when selecting a necklace. If your gown is embellished with gems or pearls, consider matching those details with your necklace. For instance, opt for a pearl necklace to pair with a pearl-embellished gown or a diamond necklace if your dress features crystals. On the other hand, if your dress is minimal or non-embellished, you have more freedom to choose a necklace that reflects your personal style and complements the neckline.

Metal and Colour Choices

When it comes to metal choices, opt for yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or sterling silver. Choose a metal that complements the colour and embellishments of your gown. For instance, if your dress is white or ivory, cool-toned metals like platinum or silver can enhance the colour. Conversely, if your gown is blush, rose gold jewellery can beautifully coordinate with the soft pink hue. Additionally, consider the other accessories you plan to wear, such as earrings or a headpiece, and try to maintain a cohesive look by matching metals and embellishments. While a pop of colour can be lovely, avoid overly bold or multicoloured necklaces with white or ivory dresses to prevent clashing.

Personal Style and Comfort

Ultimately, your wedding jewellery should reflect your unique personal style. Don't feel pressured to follow trends if they don't resonate with you. Choose pieces that you feel comfortable in and that you could see yourself wearing again. After all, your wedding jewellery will hold special memories for years to come.

Buying and styling tips

A wedding necklace is a small but important part of your bridal look. It can add a lot to your overall aesthetic, especially if your wedding dress has a low or plunging neckline or is very simple and minimalist.

• Necklace and dress combination — Your wedding necklace should complement your dress, rather than compete with it. If your dress has a lot of detail or embellishments, opt for a simpler necklace. Conversely, if your dress is relatively plain, a statement necklace can add a touch of glamour.
• Neckline — The style of your wedding necklace should complement the neckline of your dress. For example, a strapless, off-the-shoulder, or boat neckline pairs well with bolder necklaces like a collar, choker, or multi-strand piece. A V-neck or sweetheart neckline suits a small pendant, and a high or halter neckline might be better without a necklace, to avoid snagging the fabric.
• Dress embellishments — If your dress is embellished with gems or pearls, match your necklace accordingly. For instance, opt for a pearl necklace if your dress has pearls, or a diamond accessory if your dress is embellished with crystals.
• Metal — Choose a necklace with a metal that complements your dress, especially if it is embellished. Common metals include yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and sterling silver.
• Something old — Instead of buying a new necklace, consider borrowing one from a close family member or friend. This is a sweet way to incorporate an heirloom or a special piece into your bridal look.
• Colour — Avoid bold or multi-coloured necklaces, as they may clash with a white or ivory dress. A coloured gemstone can add a subtle touch of colour and work as your "something blue".
• Earrings — You may want to buy a necklace that matches your earrings, or keep them similar if you can't find a matching set. You can mix metals if you're comfortable with it, but if not, stick to the same metal and similar embellishments.

Remember, your wedding jewellery should showcase your personal style and work with the vibe you want to achieve on your big day.

Frequently asked questions