Now that you've found your gown, the next step is choosing the finishing touches.

Are you struggling to choose your bridal hair accessories and jewellery? Here are some expert tips by Tina Waller for choosing your perfect finishing touches.

 

 

 

1. Jewellery

Although it's a special day, don't stray too far from your normal style. If you rarely wear jewellery, there's no need to drown yourself in diamonds on your wedding day. The aim is to look like the best, most beautiful version of your regular self.

It's not against 'Bride Law' if you do not want to wear a headpiece, necklace, earrings and a bracelet. If you feel that just earrings or just a necklace is enough then it's up to you! However if the dress has a lot of beading and decoration around the neckline then a necklace may be too much. On the other hand a simple neckline can work beautifully with a statement piece of jewellery. Sparkly stones on the dress usually call for something to match in the jewellery.

NB. Be careful with bracelets that have stones in as they can catch on the lace of your dress especially if the lace is beaded. Some of the stones are set with clawed fixtures that can catch on threads.
 

2. Shoes

No outfit is complete without the perfect pair of shoes—and your wedding day look is no exception. Of course you'll want a killer pair to go with that gorgeous dress, but that doesn't mean you have to compromise on comfort! Our suggestion to brides is that they stick with what they are used to and comfortable with on their wedding day.

Silk and satin are traditionally the two most popular choices for wedding shoes, but naturally your wedding dress and personal taste are going to have the greatest impact on the shoes you choose.

You do not have to choose really expensive shoes I have seen some really fantastic styles from high street stores..............plus if you wear a full length dress then usually only the 'toes' of the shoes peep out!

If your budget runs to a pair of Jimmy Choos then that's great and as one of my Brides said "I know you can't really see them, but I know I'm wearing them!"

Most Brides walk better in a heel and this could mean a tiny heel or a kitten heel. If you really want a flat shoe check how you walk in them especially with a long dress, you do not want to plod!

Like with the jewellery some shoes decorated with stones and sparkly delight can catch on the lace hem.

Wear your shoes in and make sure you 'rough' up the soles a little. You do not want to slip and slide all the way to your groom.

Last but certainly not least, remember to take your shoes for your dress fittings so order your shoes with plenty of time.
 

3. Head wear (combs, tiaras, sidepieces)

Unadorned hair is beautiful on its own, but bridal headpieces have the power to pull your entire look together. I recommend you choose your hairstyle before you pick your accessories, since some types will look better with up dos than others. 

The type of headpiece should complement the colour of your gown. For example, if your dress has beadwork that is off-white or silver, a stark white headband may appear too bright next to it. If your style is vintage-inspired, consider a hair clip or headband that has exposed metal (rather than one that is completely encrusted in crystals).

A head piece will always look bigger when you try it on with your normal clothes and can more often than not look too small when you try it on with your dress.

Trying a headdress on with the dress is really the only way to be certain they work together.

If you decide to wear only a veil for the ceremony, consider a pretty clip to pop on when you take the veil off.

I stock Richard Design Accessories and they can cover the band in a similar colour to your hair to blend in.
 

4. Veils

Consider the length and check if it suits the dress style. A shorter veil will sweep round the shoulders but not cover up too much of the dress at the back. Fingertip length will sit near your bottom. A long or cathedral length (making a comeback at the moment!) should sit just on or past the train hem.

Consider the decoration on the veil, a veil should complement your dress not fight with it for attention.

Birdcage veils really suit short style dresses, especially 50's type dresses.

The 'blusher' is the top tier that can be pulled over your face, adds mystery and is very traditional!

Did you realise that the further up on you head your wear a veil the more it will fall to the front and round your face? 

Some brides worry that detail at the back of their dress will be hidden by a veil, they are really very sheer! If you choose a style with a light scattering of beads and crystals they will still allow the decoration to be seen.
 

5. Capelets & Boleros

A stylish cover-up is a must if you're getting married during the cooler months or at a house of worship that requires you to cover your shoulders. The key is to choose one that strikes the perfect balance with your gown. Simple, understated styles can be paired with more embellished cover-ups, like a beaded capelet with scalloped edges or a bold sequined or feather bolero for added personality.

If you think you need a bit more coverage (i.e. hate your arms!) then a lace shrug can be the answer.

A Fur Wrap or Jacket will look divine for a winter wedding.

Boleros, etc. can look crowded sometimes if you wear a veil as well.

A long length of tulle draped around your shoulders can be worn instead of a veil, and can add glamour and a little coverage. Not for everyone, but could be for you.

 

Important advice:

Try all your accessories together with your dress, it really is the only way to get it right, Picking up a necklace here or there and agreeing to borrow a friends veil, will only be great if they work! 

Look in that mirror and listen to what it tells you! It can be a real friend!

Try out different accessories, even those you don't like! Sometimes they surprise you or at least you know which to cross off the list

Please take a look at our range of wedding accessories.