Must-Have Wedding Accessories for the Big Day

Planning your wedding day should feel as magical and special as the day itself. From the dreamy gown to the heartfelt vows, each detail comes together to create memories you’ll treasure forever. But if there’s one thing that guarantees your bridal look is picture-perfect, it’s the right wedding accessories. The finishing touches, like that dazzling veil or those elegant earrings, will pull your whole look together and make you feel like the best version of yourself as you walk down the aisle.

Whether you’re going for timeless and elegant, bohemian and free-spirited, or bold and modern, your wedding accessories play a key role in telling your story. Let’s explore all the essentials you’ll want to choose for your big day.

Veils and Headpieces

The veil is a quintessential bridal accessory, a symbol of romance and tradition. Today, veils also come in countless styles to suit every bride’s unique vibe. From classic cathedral lengths to modern minimalist designs, there’s a perfect veil for every wedding vision.

Finding the Right Style

• Cathedral Veils: Flowing at least 108 inches, a cathedral veil screams sophistication and is perfect for creating a show-stopping entrance. If you’re rocking a dramatic ball gown or a sleek dress with a long train, this veil will elevate your look to pure elegance.
• Birdcage Veils: For vintage or minimalist-loving brides, birdcage veils offer effortless charm and timeless sophistication. These short netted veils frame your face beautifully, adding a retro feel that pairs wonderfully with tea-length dresses or sleek silhouettes.
• Chapel Veils: Chapel veils, roughly 90 inches long, strike the perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. They are ideal for brides who want a sophisticated, romantic vibe without the overwhelming drama of longer veils.
• Blusher Veils: These short, face-covering veils bring a touch of tradition to any gown and are often lifted for a cinematic moment during the ceremony. Their delicate design works beautifully with any bridal style, from modern to classic.

Headpieces to Complement Your Look

Headpieces are a great way to elevate your hairstyle, whether you’re going for a classic or modern look. Veils aside, they add a unique touch and can effortlessly enhance your overall style.

• Flower Crowns: Dreamy and ethereal, perfect for outdoor or boho-inspired weddings. These natural accessories can be customized with fresh or faux flowers to match your color palette.
• Tiaras: Calling all modern princesses! A tiara makes sure every bride feels like royalty. Pair it with a sleek updo or loose waves for a timeless, elegant look.
• Hair Vines and Combs: Lightweight, versatile, and sparkly enough to catch the light, these work beautifully with braided hairstyles or an updo. They’re easy to secure and add just the right touch of glamour to any hairstyle.

Pro tip: Try your veil and headpieces with your dress beforehand to make sure they work together seamlessly.

Jewelry

Your wedding jewelry has the power to highlight your gown and make you shine even brighter. The key? Less is more. Your jewelry should enhance your dress, not overshadow it.

Necklaces

• For strapless or sweetheart necklines, go for short pieces like pendants or chokers to draw attention to your collarbones. These styles help frame your neckline elegantly and keep the focus on your shoulders and décolletage.
• Deep V-neck gowns pair beautifully with Y-shaped or lariat-style necklaces. These necklaces create a graceful vertical line that enhances the plunge of the neckline.

Earrings

• Studs: Perfect for detailed dresses, these simple and classic pieces won’t compete with intricate designs. They’re a timeless choice that complements, rather than overwhelms, your look.
• Chandeliers or Drops: Adding some statement flair, these are ideal for gowns with clean lines or minimal embellishments. The dramatic design draws attention and adds elegance to your outfit.

Bracelets and Rings

If your dress has ¾ sleeves or shorter, a delicate bracelet (or even a stack of bangles) can add some sparkle to your wrist. Already rocking an engagement ring? Consider keeping additional rings understated to avoid too much bling.

Matching Materials

If your gown has metallic beading, match your jewelry tones to it. For example, silver jewelry pairs beautifully with silver beaded embellishments or gold tones with golden details. This simple coordination creates a polished and cohesive look, ensuring your accessories enhance your outfit rather than clash with it.

Shoes

Your wedding shoes should tick two important boxes: stylish? Check. Comfortable? Double check. After all, you’ll be on your feet for much of the day, walking down the aisle, greeting guests, and posing for photos—not to mention dancing all night. Finding the perfect pair is just as important as choosing the dress!

Heels or Flats?

• Heels: Classic pumps, block heels, or even strappy stilettos can add length and elegance. Opt for heels in satin, lace, or metallics to complement your dress. For added comfort, choose a pair with cushioned soles to keep you dancing all night.
• Flats: Flat bridal shoes can still feel glamorous. Look for embellished ballet flats or pointed-toe options. Flats are a perfect choice for outdoor weddings or brides who prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.

Comfort is Key

Don’t forget to break your shoes in before your wedding day! Cushioned insoles and gel inserts can work wonders for comfort, and a backup pair of flats or chic sneakers is a great idea for the dance floor. To avoid any surprises, try wearing your wedding shoes for a few hours around the house to get used to them beforehand.

Belts and Sashes

A belt or sash can completely transform your gown. By cinching your waist, it enhances your figure while adding an extra element of detail. Whether you prefer a subtle, minimalist design or one adorned with gems and embellishments, the right belt can take your look to the next level.

Types to Consider

• Crystal or Beaded Belts: Add sparkle and luxury to a minimalist gown. These belts catch the light beautifully, making them a stunning addition for evening weddings or formal occasions.
• Ribbon Sashes: Soft and romantic, they create a flattering line while adding a touch of color or texture. They work especially well for boho or vintage-inspired gowns, adding a timeless charm.
• Floral Belts: Perfect for whimsical, garden-inspired looks. Crafted with delicate blooms or intricate embroidery, they bring a fresh and natural vibe to any bridal outfit.

Make sure your belt aligns with the silhouette of your dress. A delicate ribbon works wonders on flowy gowns, while structured pieces match fitted dresses.

Handbags and Clutches

Even brides need to stay practical! A small handbag or clutch can be a lifesaver, whether it’s holding lipstick for touch-ups, tissues for happy tears, or even a phone to capture behind-the-scenes moments. It’s the perfect accessory to keep essentials close without sacrificing style.

Styles to Choose From

• Glitzy Clutches: These are covered in rhinestones or metallic finishes, perfect for adding a touch of sparkle. They pair beautifully with formal evening attire, making them ideal for glamorous evening weddings.
• Simple and Classic: Timeless choices like satin or pearl-embellished designs never go out of style. Their understated elegance ensures they complement almost any wedding theme or dress.
• Personalized Pieces: Adding your initials or wedding date makes the clutch uniquely yours. It also becomes a sentimental keepsake you can cherish long after the big day.

Make sure your clutch is large enough to hold essentials like your phone, compact mirror, lipstick, and tissues—but small enough to stay discreet.

Cover-Ups

Seasonal weather can be unpredictable, and a stylish cover-up ensures you stay cozy (and chic). From breezy spring evenings to chilly autumn mornings, the right layering piece can make all the difference.

Options That Elevate Your Look

• Shawls: Ideal for spring and summer weddings, sheer and delicate options add elegance without hiding your gown. They are lightweight and versatile, making them a perfect accessory for both daytime and evening ceremonies.
• Boleros: Short jackets or sweaters add warmth and style, especially for fall or winter celebrations. Choose from lace, faux fur, or knit designs to complement your wedding theme seamlessly.
• Denim or Leather Jackets: If you’re having a laid-back or edgy wedding, consider adding a personalized jacket with embroidery or your wedding date. This unique touch can also make for fun and memorable photos with your bridal party.

Opt for a cover-up that complements your gown—for example, lace boleros pair seamlessly with traditional dresses, while leather jackets work best with modern designs.

Your Dream Accessories Checklist

To help you stay organized as you plan, here’s a quick checklist of wedding accessories to consider for the big day:

• Veil or headpiece (or both!)
• Jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings)
• Shoes (heels or flats, broken in!)
• Belt or sash
• Handbag or clutch with touch-up essentials
• Cover-up (optional, but highly recommended for chilly weather)

Pulling It All Together

Your wedding day is all about YOU. The dress may steal the initial spotlight, but your accessories are the secret weapon to creating a look that feels like “you” from head to toe.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Twirl Bride for personalized advice from our expert stylists. We’re here to help you find the dress of your dreams! And remember, the best accessory you can wear is your confidence. With the right pieces in place, you’ll be glowing from the aisle to your last dance.

Have a favorite accessory tip or need more personalized advice? Drop a comment below.