Crafting Wedding Accessories: A Guide To Making Your Own

Accessories are an essential part of any wedding outfit, and there are many options to choose from. From shoes to jewellery, veils to garters, and hair accessories to bags, there are plenty of ways to add a personal touch to your wedding attire. Whether you're looking for statement earrings to pair with a simple dress or comfortable shoes for dancing the night away, creating your dream wedding look is an exciting part of the wedding journey. In this discussion, we will explore the various wedding accessories available, offer tips on how to choose the right ones for your special day, and provide inspiration for crafting a unique and memorable wedding ensemble.

Choosing wedding jewellery

Trust your instincts and personal style

You know what works for you and what you feel most confident in, so let that guide your bridal look. If you never wear earrings, don't feel you have to wear a statement earring on your wedding day. Instead, opt for more comfortable choices, like a formal version of a stud with multiple stones. If you love stacking bracelets, layer two glitzy bracelets of the same style.

Consider your dress silhouette

The style of your dress will determine what jewellery will complement the look. For example, if you're wearing a high-neck gown, focus on earrings and maybe a bracelet. If your dress is strapless, a necklace or drop earrings will enhance the ensemble's silhouette.

Know that you can always switch things up

The jewellery you wear for your ceremony doesn't have to be the same for the rest of the wedding. If your veil stops you from wearing statement earrings, change into some sparkly earrings for the reception.

Prioritise personal style over trends

Trends will come and go, but your wedding photos are forever. Make decisions based on personal style and what feels authentic to you.

Don't feel pressured by outside opinions

Different generations have different ideas about what bridalwear should look like. Don't feel pressured to shop for a piece just because someone else thinks you should wear it.

Don't forget your sentimental pieces

If there's a particular piece you know you want to wear, bring it along when dress shopping to ensure it matches. If an heirloom piece is being handed down to you, consider having it remade into something more in line with your personal style.

Match your jewellery to the style of your dress

If your wedding dress is simple, a statement necklace can give you a stunning look. You can also be creative and choose jewellery that contrasts with your dress for a unique appeal.

Picking the right shoes

Comfort is Key

As a bride, your wedding day will likely involve a lot of standing and walking, so it's crucial to choose comfortable shoes that can endure a full day of activities. If you're not used to wearing high heels, consider opting for a pair of stylish flats or a small heel to avoid tripping as you walk down the aisle. Additionally, break in your wedding shoes before the big day by wearing them for short periods around the house. This will help them mould to the shape of your feet and ensure comfort when it matters most.

Consider the Venue and Your Dress

Think about the venue and the style of your wedding dress when choosing your shoes. If you're having a beach wedding, for example, stiletto heels may not be the most practical choice. Instead, consider a wedge or lower heel that will be easier to walk in on the sand. Similarly, if your dress has a long train, avoid shoes with a very high heel to prevent tripping over the fabric. Choose a shoe style and heel height that complements the overall look and feel of your wedding outfit and venue.

Think About Your Everyday Style

Consider your usual style and comfort level with different types of shoes. If you rarely wear heels or find them uncomfortable, your wedding day is not the best time to experiment. Opt for a style of shoe that you're used to and feel confident walking in, whether it's a flat, a low heel, or a taller heel. If you want to wear heels but are concerned about comfort, practice wearing them ahead of time to get used to walking and standing in them for extended periods.

Don't Forget Your Budget

Wedding shoes can be expensive, so it's important to consider your budget when making your selection. There is no right or wrong amount to spend, but if you have a limited budget, look for options that you know you'll wear again after the wedding. Neutral-coloured shoes or styles without too much bling are more versatile and can be paired with various outfits post-wedding.

Think Outside the Box

Remember, you're not limited to traditional wedding shoes. If you want to showcase your personality, consider unique options like cowgirl boots, sneakers, or colourful heels. You can also switch up your shoes from the ceremony to the reception, especially if the two events have different vibes or venues. Ultimately, choose wedding shoes that you love and that reflect your style, ensuring that comfort is always a priority.

Finding the best veil

Finding the perfect wedding veil to complement your dress is an important part of achieving your dream bridal look. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you find "the one".

Understand Your Dress Style:

Firstly, consider the style and shape of your dress. Your veil should accentuate and be proportional to your dress without overpowering it. Look for key focal points on your dress as a guide for your veil. For instance, if your dress has a defined waistline, a veil that falls just above or below it can create an elegant and proportional look.

For a traditional ball gown, a chapel or cathedral-length veil adds drama and elegance. Conversely, a sleek, modern sheath or slip dress pairs well with a minimalist chapel, fingertip, or birdcage veil. If your dress has a short train or no train at all, consider a floor-length or chapel-length veil that is slightly longer than the hem or train of your gown.

If your dress is heavily embellished or features intricate lacework, opt for a simpler veil to let the dress shine. Conversely, if your dress is simple, you might opt for a veil with embellishments like lace, beading, or florals to add a touch of detail.

Consider the Length:

Veil length is a crucial factor. Here are some common veil lengths and how they pair with different dress styles:

• Birdcage Veil (9 inches): This short, vintage-style veil covers just part of the face and is perfect for retro, minimalist, or modern brides.
• Shoulder-Length Veil (20 inches): A casual, modern choice that ends around the shoulders, ideal for informal or outdoor weddings.
• Elbow-Length Veil (25-27 inches): Flattering and versatile, this length complements most dress styles, falling gracefully over the shoulders to the bride's elbows.
• Fingertip Veil (36-40 inches): A popular choice that adds elegance without overwhelming the dress, grazing the bride's fingertips.
• Chapel-Length Veil (90 inches): Extending to the floor, just beyond the hem of your dress, this length adds a touch of formality and grace.
• Cathedral-Length Veil (108-120 inches): The most dramatic option, trailing behind the bride, perfect for a grand, traditional wedding.

The fingertip veil is a timeless and versatile choice, working well with a range of wedding dresses and venues.

Think About the Details:

The details of your veil can either enhance or detract from your overall look. If your dress is simple, consider a veil with embellishments to add interest. Conversely, if your dress is detailed, a plain veil will ensure it takes centre stage.

The edge of your veil can also make a statement. A raw-cut edge offers a modern, clean look, while lace or ribbon edges add a traditional, romantic touch.

Practical Considerations:

Don't forget to think about the practicality of wearing a veil. Consider the venue and weather forecast. For outdoor weddings, the wind may be an issue, so shorter veils or those that can be easily removed after the ceremony might be preferable.

Ensure your veil is lightweight and comfortable, as you'll be wearing it for several hours. It's also a good idea to have someone from your bridal party know how to remove the veil after the ceremony if needed, without damaging your hairstyle.

Hairstyle Considerations:

Your hairstyle will impact how your veil sits and is secured. Veils often need a supportive base such as an updo, messy bun, or half-up/half-down style. Longer or heavier veils will require a more supportive hairstyle.

Updos work well with almost any veil length, while loose waves may require extra pins to keep the veil in place. The half-up/half-down style is versatile and pairs beautifully with most veil styles.

Colour Matching:

Matching the colour of your veil to your dress is crucial for a cohesive look. Wedding dresses come in various shades of white, ivory, champagne, and blush, so find a veil that complements the tone of your dress.

For pure white dresses, pair with a bright white veil. For off-white, silk white, or diamond white dresses, opt for a neutral white veil. Ivory veils should match the tone of the dress, and blush or champagne dresses can be paired with veils that have a slight pink or champagne tint.

Veil Shopping Tips:

When shopping for your veil, bring a swatch that matches your dress's fabric and colour, or shop at the same bridal shop where you bought your dress to ensure a perfect match.

Don't be afraid to try different styles, and choose a veil that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. After all, your wedding veil is a symbol of the bride you've always dreamed of being.

Selecting hair accessories

Know Your Hairstyle

Before selecting any hair accessories, it's essential to have a clear idea of your desired hairstyle for the wedding day. Decide whether you want to wear your hair up, down, or in a partial updo. If you plan to have a bun, determine if it will be a high ballerina-style bun or a low bun swept to the side. Knowing your hairstyle will help you choose accessories that complement it effectively.

Consider Your Hair Type and Length

The type and length of your hair will play a role in choosing the right accessories. If you have long and thick hair, opt for bigger and more statement pieces that can stand out against the volume of your hair. For shorter hair, tiaras and headbands are excellent choices as they stay firmly in place without shifting. Hair vines, on the other hand, are versatile and can be woven through various hairstyles, working well with all hair lengths.

View Accessories From All Angles

When trying on hair accessories, make sure to view them from all angles, just as you would with your wedding gown. Ask the salesperson to take pictures from the front, back, and sides so you can get a 360-degree view. This will help you understand how the accessory will look from different vantage points and ensure that it complements your overall look.

Match the Metal Colour

Consider the colour of your wedding gown when choosing hair accessories. The hue of the headpiece should complement the dress. For example, if your dress has off-white or silver beadwork, a stark white headband might look too bright in comparison. Opt for accessories that harmonise with the colour palette of your gown.

Adjust and Experiment

Don't be afraid to experiment with the placement of your hair accessories. A headband, hair clip, or pin can look completely different depending on where you place it. As a general rule, placing accessories higher on your head will create a more dramatic look, while attaching them closer to your face will make them stand out more.

Create Harmony with Other Accessories

Remember that your hair accessories should work in harmony with your jewellery, veil, and the details of your dress. Edit and simplify where necessary to ensure that your accessories enhance rather than distract from your overall bridal look.

Creating a bridal purse

Bridal purses are a popular wedding accessory and can be a fun, creative project to make at home. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a bridal purse:

Materials and Design

Firstly, decide on the design and materials. Bridal purses can be made from a variety of fabrics and materials, including satin, straw, canvas, acrylic, and faux suede. The material chosen will influence the overall look and feel of the purse, so it's important to consider the theme and style of the wedding. Beading, rhinestones, pearls, and glitter are popular additions to bridal purses, adding a touch of glamour and elegance.

Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of the purse. Clutches and evening bags are popular choices for bridal purses, as they are small and elegant. However, you may also want to consider a tote bag or shoulder bag, which can be more practical for carrying essential items throughout the day. Decide on the desired shape, whether it's a traditional rectangular clutch, a circular bag, or something more unique.

Embellishments and Details

Think about any additional details or embellishments you want to include. You could add a removable chain strap to a clutch, allowing it to be worn as a crossbody bag for added convenience. Some purses also feature a wristlet strap for easy carrying. Embellishments like rhinestones, pearls, or glitter can be used to spell out words like "Bride" or "Mrs", adding a playful touch.

Construction

Once you have your design and materials, it's time to start constructing the purse. This process will vary depending on the chosen design and your crafting skills. Basic sewing skills are generally required, and you may need to source patterns or templates online if you're creating a complex design. Ensure you have all the necessary tools, such as fabric scissors, glue, and needles, and take your time to create a neat and durable finish.

Final Touches

Add any final touches to your bridal purse. You could line the inside of the purse with a soft fabric, add a small pocket for essential items, or include a hidden message or monogram for a personal touch. Ensure all embellishments are securely attached, and your purse is ready for its debut on the big day!

Frequently asked questions