As you plan each detail of your dream wedding, one aspect that holds great significance is your bridal jewellery.

The right pieces can transform your entire look, adding an ethereal touch of elegance and flair that perfectly complements your personal style and the theme of your big day.

Let us guide you through the enchanting world of bridal adornments so that you can make informed and inspired choices for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

Types of bridal jewellery

The jewellery usually complements the bride’s style, wedding dress, and theme. what you choose to wear as you tie the knot is also an excellent way to acknowledge wedding traditions, like local customs, or incorporate sentimental pieces.

Whichever jewellery a bride chooses, it’s essential to balance the different pieces to create a harmonious and stunning bridal look.

Bridal necklaces

A wedding necklace is a classic and elegant addition to bride’s ensemble. It can be a simple pendant or a statement piece, depending on the bride’s preference and the neckline of the wedding dress.

Popular bridal necklace styles include chokers or princess style (17-19 inches), matinee (20-24 inches), and opera-length (28-37 inches).

Bridal earrings

Earrings are a versatile and essential part of the bridal jewellery set. Brides can choose from many earring styles, such as studs, hoops, drops, chandeliers, or dangle earrings.

The choice of wedding earrings usually depends on the bride’s hairstyle, the complexity of the necklace, and the dress design.

Bridal bracelets

Bracelets add a romantic touch to the bride’s wrists. They come in various styles, from delicate chain bracelets to bolder cuffs. Brides often choose a bracelet that complements their overall look without overpowering their other jewellery pieces.

Bridal rings

Of course, the most essential ring for the bride is her wedding band, which she and her partner exchange during the ceremony.

As well as the wedding band, some brides may also wear an engagement ring or stackable bands to create a unique outfit.

Matching jewellery to the dress

Selecting a jewellery set for a wedding that marries the bridal gown makes a seamless look.

These tips will help you choose the perfect jewellery to match your dress.

Consider the dress neckline

The dress neckline plays a significant role in determining the necklace type that will best complement it.

V-neck or plunging necklines look better with a pendant necklace that follows the neckline’s shape or a delicate chain with a small gemstone.

Statement necklaces work best with a sweetheart or strapless neckline, filling the open space between the dress and collarbone.

Skip the necklace if you’re wearing a halter gown or dress with a high neckline, and opt for statement earrings and a bracelet instead.

Balance the dress embellishments

If the wedding dress is heavily embellished with crystals, pearls, or intricate details, consider simple and understated jewellery to avoid overwhelming the look.

On the other hand, a minimalist dress can be complemented with more elaborate jewellery, adding a hint of sparkle and glamour.

Match metals to the dress colour

Pay attention to the dress’ colour and choose metals that complement it.

Ivory and champagne dresses often pair well with gold or rose gold jewellery, while white dresses look better with silver or platinum.

Take the hairstyle into account

The hairstyle you choose can influence the type of earrings that work best.

If you’re wearing an updo, focus on statement earrings. Consider smaller pieces for loose hairstyles, such as studs or huggie hoops.

Think about the wedding theme

If your wedding has a specific theme (such as vintage, bohemian, beach, etc.), try to choose jewellery that aligns with it.

Vintage dresses may look nicer with classic pearl accessories, while a beach ceremony might call for more relaxed and natural-looking pieces.

Traditional vs contemporary jewellery

Traditional bridal jewellery and contemporary options offer distinct styles and aesthetics, catering to different personal preferences and wedding themes.

Classic pieces of traditional jewellery pairs exceptionally well with cultural wedding themes and is ideal for brides who prefer a regal and opulent look.

Contemporary pieces, on the other hand, suit modern and trendy wedding themes, city weddings, or those who want a minimalist, bohemian, or alternative style.

Some brides blend traditional and contemporary elements to create a unique and eclectic look that represents their personality or background while incorporating modern touches.

Gemstone and metal choices

Choosing gemstones and metals for bridal jewellery opens up a world of possibilities.

Among the popular gemstone choices, diamonds are a timeless favourite, known for their brilliance and symbolism of everlasting love. Sapphires have captivating hues, while emeralds are often associated with hope and renewal.

Brides looking for a burst of passion might opt for striking rubies, while pearls, with their classic appeal, are a perfect choice for a timeless look.

For a more unique outfit, you could explore the play-of-colour effect of opals or aquamarines with their serene blue tones.

Equally important is the choice of metal, as this sets the tone for the appearance of your bridal jewellery.

Gold, in its various yellow, white, and rose shades, remains a timeless favourite. It complements many gemstones and offers a warm and luxurious touch.

Platinum has a natural white colour and exceptional durability and pairs beautifully with diamonds and coloured gemstones. Silver and titanium are versatile and great for more contemporary designs.

Personalised bridal jewellery

Personalising bridal jewellery adds a unique and meaningful touch to the wedding ensemble, making it a cherished part of the bride’s special day.

Work with a jewellery designer to create custom pieces and bring your vision to life. They can incorporate specific gemstones, metals, and design elements that hold sentimental value or reflect your style. These designs could range from a unique engagement ring to a bespoke necklace inspired by a special memory.

Engravings and inscriptions allow for a personal touch that’s discreet yet heartfelt. Inscribing the wedding date, initials, a meaningful quote, or a special message inside a ring or a bracelet creates a timeless reminder of the wedding day and the love shared.

A popular personalisation choice is to add birthstone or zodiac symbols into the bridal jewellery set. Brides can choose gemstones that represent their birth month or those of their partner, infusing the jewellery with a deeper connection to their relationship.

Styling tips: Dos and don’ts

To round up our guide to bridal jewellery, we’re leaving you with a valuable set of styling tips, so you know what to do (and avoid) when picking your pieces.

Do stick to your personal style — Make sure the jewellery you select reflects your style and makes you feel comfortable. Stay true to your taste and preference while keeping in mind the dress and overall wedding vision.

Don’t overdo it — Less can be more. If your dress already has a lot of details, avoid going overboard with heavy jewellery. Opt for a few key pieces that enhance the dress without competing with it.

Do try beforehand — Do a trial run with different jewellery pieces with your dress to see how they look together. This can help you make an informed decision and visualise your final look.

Do get advice from professionals — If you’re unsure about which jewellery piece to pick, seek advice from a professional jeweller or stylist who specialises in bridal looks.

Get in touch with Robert Gatward Jewellers today and discover how we can help you pick the best jewellery for your special day!