Jewelry For Your Bridesmaids: What To Choose?

Choosing the right jewelry for your bridesmaids is an important part of wedding planning. It can be tricky to decide what jewelry your bridesmaids should wear, especially if you want them to wear matching pieces. The jewelry should complement the bridesmaids' dresses and hairstyles without being too distracting. It's also important to consider the bridesmaids' budgets and comfort levels when selecting jewelry. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect jewelry for your bridesmaids:

- Match the color of the bridesmaid dresses to complementary metal colors. For example, rose gold goes well with pink, while silver or white gold pairs nicely with yellow or blue.

- Consider the necklines of the dresses and the hairstyles you prefer for your bridesmaids. Dangle earrings work well with updos, while studs are better for looks with hair worn down.

- Strapless, sweetheart, and V-neck dresses are perfect for a statement necklace, while one-shoulder, halter, and illusion necklines are better suited for flashier earrings or bracelets.

- If you want your bridesmaids to wear matching jewelry, you can gift it to them as a thoughtful present. This ensures uniformity and can eliminate an added expense for your bridesmaids.

- If you prefer a cohesive look but want to give your bridesmaids some freedom, provide them with guidelines. For example, suggest a specific type of metal or stone, or request that they wear their hair up with drop earrings.

- Remember, less is more. A few simple and elegant pieces will enhance your bridesmaids' look without overwhelming it.

Metal colours and dress colours: match rose gold with pink, silver with blue, etc

When choosing jewelry for your bridesmaids, it's a good idea to match the metal color to the dress color. Here are some combinations to consider:

Rose Gold and Pink

Rose gold jewelry is a beautiful match for pink dresses. The warm tones of rose gold complement the softness of pink, creating a romantic and elegant look. This combination is perfect for weddings with a blush or dusty rose color palette.

Silver and Blue

Silver jewelry is an excellent choice to pair with blue dresses. The cool tones of silver enhance the calm and serene vibe of blue. This combination can range from icy blue and silver for a winter wedding to navy blue and silver for a sophisticated year-round look.

Gold and Yellow

Gold jewelry adds a touch of warmth and glamour to yellow dresses. The combination of gold and yellow creates a sunny and vibrant aesthetic, perfect for a spring or summer wedding.

White Gold and Blue

White gold jewelry is another stunning option to pair with blue dresses. The crispness of white gold complements the cool tones of blue, creating a sophisticated and modern look. This combination works well with shades of French blue or periwinkle.

Gold and Green

Gold jewelry is a versatile choice that pairs beautifully with green dresses. The richness of gold enhances the natural beauty of green, especially for a rustic or outdoor wedding. Opt for simple gold jewelry to complement a dress with a green hue and brown undertones.

Rose Gold and Burgundy

For a bold and beautiful statement, pair rose gold jewelry with burgundy dresses. The combination of warm and rich colors creates an elegant and luxurious look. This combination is perfect for fall weddings or any special occasion.

Necklines and hairstyles: consider the style of jewellery that will complement your bridesmaids' necklines and hairstyles

When choosing jewellery for your bridesmaids, it's important to consider the necklines and hairstyles of their dresses. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect jewellery pieces to complement their looks:

For bridesmaids with high necklines, it's best to avoid adding a necklace as it can be too much. Instead, opt for a pair of statement earrings or drop earrings to add some sparkle. You can also choose a delicate pearl bracelet to complete the look. If your bridesmaids have their hair up, showcase their faces by selecting earrings that add a pop of colour or some subtle sparkle.

If your bridesmaids are wearing dresses with halter or high necklines, necklaces may not be the best choice. Instead, opt for a pair of delicate earrings or a simple bracelet. You can also gift your bridesmaids with a piece of jewellery they can wear on your big day, such as a freshwater pearl necklace or bracelet. These timeless pieces will complement their outfits without taking away from their dresses.

For bridesmaids with V-necklines or strapless dresses, a simple necklace can be a perfect choice. A delicate gold necklace, a solitaire pendant, or a dainty choker can gracefully accentuate their necklines. If you want to add a bit of sparkle, consider a necklace with a small diamond pendant.

For off-the-shoulder or sweetheart necklines, you can choose a choker or a necklace with a solitaire diamond to highlight your bridesmaids' faces. If you want to add a pop of colour, consider colourful stud earrings or a statement earring set.

When it comes to hairstyles, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. For a boho or rustic wedding, pair loose, romantic curls with delicate jewellery. For a glamorous black-tie affair, opt for diamonds, crystals, or rhinestones. If you're having a beach wedding, simple dangling earrings or a dainty necklace and bracelet set can be perfect.

Remember, the jewellery should complement the bride's jewellery without being too matchy. The bride should always be the centre of attention, so avoid overly bold or flashy pieces for the bridesmaids. You can also mix and match different jewellery pieces for each bridesmaid, especially if they are wearing mismatched dresses. This adds a personal touch and makes each gift feel more special.

Budget: if your bridesmaids are buying their own jewellery, be conscious of their budget

If your bridesmaids are buying their own jewellery, it's important to be mindful of their budget. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Firstly, consider gifting your bridesmaids their jewellery as a thoughtful gesture. This ensures they don't have to incur an additional expense, and it guarantees they'll look exactly as you envisioned on the big day. You can choose a specific piece that doubles as a gift and an accessory, such as a delicate necklace, bold earrings, or a hint of sparkle with a bracelet.

If you're set on having your bridesmaids wear particular jewellery, it's considerate to give these pieces as gifts. However, if you're unable to do so, communicate with your bridesmaids about their budget constraints. Be open to suggestions and willing to compromise to accommodate their financial situation.

When selecting jewellery, opt for affordable options that won't break the bank. Sites like David's Bridal offer elegant yet affordable pieces. You can also explore pre-packaged jewellery sets, which often provide excellent value. For instance, a simple set of pearl drop earrings and a matching bracelet can be a budget-friendly option.

Additionally, consider the dress and its neckline when choosing jewellery. For high necklines or halter dresses, a necklace might be unnecessary, and a pair of delicate earrings or a bracelet could be more suitable. For strapless or V-neck dresses, a simple necklace or pendant can be a perfect complement.

Remember, you don't have to dictate every aspect of their look. You can provide guidelines and let your bridesmaids put their personal touch on their accessories. This can add individuality and avoid a "cookie-cutter" look. For instance, you can suggest a theme, such as "pearls only" or "metallic accessories," and let them choose the specific pieces within that theme.

Lastly, be mindful of your bridesmaids' other expenses, such as dresses, shoes, bridal shower gifts, and bachelorette party costs. Choose jewellery that is reasonably priced and consider their overall budget for the wedding.

Individuality: letting your bridesmaids pick their own accessories can let their personalities shine

Letting your bridesmaids pick their own accessories is a great way to let their personalities shine through. It's a chance for them to personalise their look, especially if they're all wearing the same dress.

If you're worried about your bridal party's unique styles clashing with your wedding aesthetic, you can give them some parameters to work within. For example, you could ask them to stick to a certain colour palette or type of accessory. You could suggest they "stay in the pearl family" or "wear metallic accessories". If you want to add more specific guidelines, such as necklaces and earrings only, that works too.

If you're concerned about your bridesmaids' budgets, letting them choose their own accessories can help accommodate their finances. It also takes the pressure off your wallet if you're planning on gifting their accessories to them.

If you're worried about your bridesmaids' unique styles clashing with your wedding aesthetic, you can always ask them to run their accessory ideas past you before they make a purchase.

• If they're wearing a strapless dress, they could opt for a chunky pearl necklace, a dramatic drop necklace, or bold multi-layered necklace.
• If they're wearing a sweetheart or V-neckline, a simple pendant or drop necklace would complement this style.
• If they're wearing a halterneck dress, there's no need for a necklace. Opt for simple earrings such as diamond studs or small hoops, and an elegant bracelet.
• If they're wearing a spaghetti strap dress, pair it with a dainty crystal drop necklace or thin string of pearls, and some simple stud earrings.
• If they're wearing a one-shoulder dress, a dramatic pair of drop earrings and a simple bracelet will complete the look.
• If they're wearing a sheer neckline, avoid a necklace as it could complicate the look or damage the fabric. Instead, choose some statement drop earrings, a bracelet, and even a statement ring.

Remember, at the end of the day, it's about picking what looks best with each attendant's outfit and letting each person show some of their unique personality.

Gifts: jewellery is a great gift for your bridesmaids and ensures they wear what you want

Jewellery is a great gift for your bridesmaids and ensures they wear what you want. It's a polite way to ensure your bridesmaids wear exactly what you have in mind for your wedding day, and it's something they can wear again and again.

If you're the bride, you'll want to stay true to your vision while also keeping your bridesmaids happy. Jewellery can be a nice finishing touch to bridesmaid outfits, but it's not a necessity. If you do want your bridesmaids to add some sparkle, there are a few things to consider.

First, decide whether you want them all to wear the same jewellery or if you're happy for them to mix and match. You could also give them a theme to work with, such as pearls or metallics. If you want them to wear something specific, gifting it to them is a great option.

Next, think about the type of jewellery you want your bridesmaids to wear. Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets are all great options, but the right choice will depend on the style of your bridesmaids' dresses and hairstyles. If your bridesmaids are wearing high necklines or halter dresses, for example, a necklace might not be the best choice. Instead, opt for a delicate pearl bracelet or a pair of pretty earrings. If they're wearing their hair up, consider a pair of statement earrings that will shine.

When choosing the metal and colour of the jewellery, consider the colour of the bridesmaid dresses. For example, silver tends to pair well with lighter, pastel colours, while rose gold or yellow gold complements warmer tones. You could also match the metal to the bride's chosen jewellery or the colour scheme of the wedding.

Finally, don't forget to keep it subtle. You want the jewellery to complement the bridesmaids' outfits, not distract from them. A few simple, elegant pieces will be perfect.

Frequently asked questions