Jewelry Guide For Bridesmaids: What To Wear?

Choosing the right jewellery for your bridesmaids can be a tricky task. While some brides prefer to choose their bridesmaids' accessories, others allow their bridesmaids to have free rein. If you're a bridesmaid, it's important to remember that the bride should always have a say in what you wear, even if she's left the decision up to you. It's also a good idea to consider the style of your dress, the bride's ensemble, the colour of your dress, and your hairstyle when choosing your jewellery.

Earrings: Choose studs or drops depending on the hairdo and dress

When it comes to choosing earrings for bridesmaids, there are a few factors to consider, such as the hairdo and dress style. If your bridesmaids will be wearing their hair up, a pair of small and simple stud earrings can be a perfect choice, providing a subtle touch of sparkle without taking away from the hairstyle. On the other hand, if they will be wearing their hair down, you may want to opt for something larger with a bit of movement, such as drop earrings. This will add a touch of elegance and complement the flow of their hair.

The style of the bridesmaid dresses should also be taken into account when selecting earrings. For strapless, sweetheart, or v-neck dresses, a pair of statement earrings can be a great choice to accentuate the neckline. However, for dresses with high necklines or halter necks, it may be best to opt for more delicate earrings to avoid overwhelming the look. Additionally, consider the colour of the dresses when choosing the metal of the earrings. For example, silver tends to pair well with lighter, pastel colours, while rose gold or yellow gold can complement warmer tones.

It is important to remember that not everyone is used to wearing earrings, so it is a good idea to check with your bridesmaids beforehand and consider clip-on options for those without pierced ears. Ultimately, the choice of earrings should be guided by the comfort and preferences of your bridesmaids, while also complementing their hair and dress styles.

Necklaces: Consider the dress neckline and whether it will be visible

When choosing necklaces for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider the neckline of their dresses and whether the necklace will be visible.

If your bridesmaids are wearing high necklines or halter dresses, a necklace might not be necessary. In this case, you may want to opt for simple earrings or a delicate bracelet instead. On the other hand, if your bridesmaids will be wearing a strapless dress, a sweetheart neckline, or a V-neckline, a necklace can be a perfect addition. For high necklines, consider a longer chain, while a simple pendant or drop necklace can complement lower necklines nicely.

It's also important to keep in mind that a necklace might not always be visible, especially if it is small and delicate. If you want the necklace to be a statement piece, consider choosing a larger or more dramatic option. Additionally, if your bridesmaids will be wearing their hair down, a longer or more noticeable necklace might be necessary to ensure it doesn't get lost in their hairstyle.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to wear a necklace depends on the overall look you are trying to achieve. If the dress already has a lot of detail or embellishment, a necklace might not be needed. However, if you want to add a bit of sparkle or elegance, a necklace can be a great choice. Just be sure to consider the neckline and style of the dress when making your selection.

Bracelets: A symbol of friendship, but may go unnoticed with long sleeves

Bracelets are a symbol of friendship, making them a lovely way for your bridal party to feel connected on the big day. They'll be a sweet and subtle addition to your bridesmaid outfits that won't draw too much attention from the dresses. Bracelets can also be a thoughtful gift for your bridesmaids to wear long after the wedding day.

However, if your bridesmaids are wearing long sleeves, bracelets might go unnoticed by some guests. If you want your bridesmaids' jewellery to be seen, consider a different type of accessory, like earrings or necklaces. Earrings, for example, will go with pretty much everything and are a good option if you want your bridesmaids to wear the same jewellery.

If you do opt for bracelets, you could suggest your bridesmaids wear their hair in an updo to show them off. Alternatively, you could ask them to choose their own accessories, which will give them the opportunity to personalise their look.

Matching: Decide whether the bridal party should wear matching jewellery

Matching jewellery is not a requirement for bridesmaids. In fact, it is a great opportunity for each bridesmaid to showcase their individuality and unique style. Leaving the choice of accessories to the bridesmaids can also help accommodate their budgets. However, if you want your bridal party to look uniform, choosing matching jewellery is the best option.

If you decide to go for matching jewellery, it is important to consider the dresses, hair, and overall style of your bridesmaids. The type of jewellery they wear will depend on the neckline of their dresses. For example, a simple pendant necklace or drop earrings would pair well with a strapless dress, while a halterneck dress would be better suited with no necklace and simple earrings or a bracelet. You should also take into account the colour of the dresses, as some metals pair better with certain colours. For instance, silver tends to go well with lighter, pastel colours, while rose gold or yellow gold complements warmer colours.

Additionally, the hairstyle of your bridesmaids will impact the type of jewellery they can wear. If they are wearing their hair up, statement earrings can add a nice touch, whereas wearing the hair down calls for more subtle earrings like studs or pearls.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the bridal party should wear matching jewellery is up to the bride. If you want a uniform look, you can choose specific pieces for your bridesmaids to wear. On the other hand, if you want to showcase their individuality, you can give them some guidelines or parameters to follow while allowing them to accessorise themselves.

Budget: Jewellery is an extra expense for bridesmaids, so consider gifting it

Jewellery is an extra expense for bridesmaids, so it's a thoughtful gesture to gift it to them. This is especially true if you have a specific piece of jewellery in mind that you want them to wear. Gifting jewellery is a polite way to ensure your bridesmaids wear what you want, and it's something they can wear again and again.

If you're set on a particular piece of jewellery, it's a good idea to give it as a bridesmaid proposal or thank-you gift. This way, your bridesmaids can wear the jewellery on your big day, and it's a gift they can enjoy time and time again. It's a win-win!

When choosing bridesmaid jewellery, consider something that reflects their individual style and personality. This way, they are more likely to wear it long after the wedding. Classic pieces like pearls or sparkly earrings are always a good choice. If you want to add a personal touch, you can even get the jewellery gift-wrapped or personalised with their names.

If you're worried about your bridesmaids' budgets, you can also suggest more affordable options for their accessories. You can give them some parameters, such as staying within a certain colour family or choosing between metallic or pearl accessories. This way, they can still add their unique touch without breaking the bank.

Remember, the jewellery doesn't have to be worn on the wedding day. You can choose bolder colours, shapes, and styles as a gift, and just ask your bridesmaids to wear the same metal on the day for uniformity in photos. This way, you can add a personal touch to their gifts while still achieving a cohesive look for your bridal party.

Frequently asked questions