When it comes to your wedding day (or any wedding for that matter) we all know how important the details are. Whether it’s a pair of heels comfortable enough to dance in all night long or a smudgeproof makeup look that can easily withstand a couple tears, a little planning can go a long way in making sure your look — and the wedding day as a whole — runs as smoothly as possible.
As this relates to wedding jewelry, “it’s important to choose pieces that enhance the overall look without overpowering it,” explains Maisie-Kate Keane, luxury bridal stylist and founder of Maisie-Kate Style. She recommends considering “the style and neckline of your dress and hairstyle to determine which type of jewelry will be most suitable.” For instance, if your wedding dress is intricately detailed, minimalist bridal jewelry is probably the way to go. On the flip side, statement jewelry pairs beautifully with a simple design or a minimal dress.
But whether it’s your big day or you’re a guest at someone else’s celebration, the jewelry you opt for “totally depends on your dress and the vibe and theme of your wedding,” explains Katie Hubbard of My Wedding Wardrobe, who offers accessory styling as one of her services. Though no matter what the theme is, wedding stylist and owner of The Stylish Bride Julie Sabatino advises prioritizing “comfort, style and above all else, something that feels true to you.” At the end of the day, jewelry plays a supporting role, and needs to complement and coordinate with a look as opposed to being the focus, she explains.
Ahead, browse the stylists’ picks for elegant wedding jewelry for brides, bridesmaids and guests.
Best wedding necklaces
“Simple pendant necklaces are a classic and versatile option for wedding jewelry,” explains Keane. “Whether adorned with a sparkling diamond, a lustrous pearl or a personal charm, these necklaces can be worn long after the wedding day as a cherished reminder of the special occasion.”
Many brides are opting out of wearing necklaces on their big day, shares Sabatino. But if they do? “It’s a simple diamond or pearl strand, or even a simple solitaire,” she explains.
For wedding guests, an initial charm necklace can serve as both a perfect accessory and a conversation starter, shares Keane. A delicate and dainty option like this one can “add a touch of charm and elegance to any outfit,” she explains. And if you’re looking for bridesmaid jewelry inspiration, an initial charm can be a fun way to personalize each person’s look while still keeping everything cohesive.
For the bride who loves a statement necklace but still wants to maintain that classic wedding day style, Keane recommends this option. “It strikes a perfect balance between elegance and individuality,” she shares. “Its timeless design offers a subtle homage to antique jewelry pieces, adding a touch of vintage charm to the bridal ensemble.”
“This necklace would be stunning with a strapless gown on a bride or wedding guest,” explains Hubbard. “It’s such a classic option and would pair perfectly with so many different looks.”
Or to get the look for less, this top-rated option from Amazon features heart-shaped cubic zirconia jewels that sparkle against a rhodium-plated setting.
“I’ve seen lots of pearl chokers coming back and I think they add a beautiful mix of a vintage and modern look,” shares Hubbard. For a statement take on the pearl wedding jewelry trend, she recommends this piece from Kenneth Jay Lane.
Best wedding earrings
“Earrings are so personal and something that has to be comfortable for the person wearing them,” explains Sabatino. So the styles of earrings you’ll see brides wearing on their big day really range. “You can never go wrong with diamond studs or a simple pearl,” she shares, adding that “those same shapes with a drop added are pretty.”
“Diamond or pearl studs are a quintessential choice for wedding jewelry,” explains Keane. “They exude sophistication and grace while adding a subtle touch of sparkle or lustrous glow to the earlobes.”
“As a wedding guest, accessories offer an excellent opportunity to add a touch of playfulness to your overall look,” shares Keane. “These earrings in particular provide an effortless way to transform your style from minimalist to mesmerizing throughout the day.” Simply pull the bottom half of the ball down to reveal a white diamond suspended between delicate chains.
For the bride still in search of her “something blue,” Hubbard recommends these flower statement earrings. They’re also the perfect trendy accessory for any spring or summer wedding attendees!
“Embrace the spirit of pride and add a vibrant touch to your ensemble with these playful earrings,” shares Keane. “These earrings are designed to ensure they make a statement without overpowering your overall look,” she explains. Whether you’re the bride or a guest, these studs “bring a pop of color to your attire, celebrating love and inclusivity during the wedding festivities.”
Hubbard describes these earrings as “classic with a twist, playing on the “pop of color” trend” that brides have really been embracing. “Sapphires and emerald jewels have become very popular lately,” she explains, with brides even opting for wedding dresses with more color.
Don’t have your ears pierced but looking for an accessory that ties your look together? These clip-on earrings “are designed to enhance your overall look by adding a touch of elegance and sparkle,” says Keane. Whether you’re hoping to make a lasting impression as the bride, mother of the bride or just a guest, “these offer the perfect balance of size and dimension,” she explains.
Best wedding bracelets
“Tennis bracelets are renowned for their timeless beauty and appeal,” explains Keane. They’re “versatile accessories that can be worn on the wedding day and beyond, making them a cherished heirloom piece to be passed down through generations.” Hubbard agrees, adding that “everyone needs a classic tennis bracelet in their closet for any formal or black-tie event.” Not to worry if the price of traditional diamond options are preventing you from stocking up on the timeless piece. This more affordable wedding jewelry option is equally versatile, and perfect for minimalist brides or any wedding guest.
“One thing you want to keep in mind when selecting a bracelet is if it has prongs that could snag your dress,” Sabatino cautions brides. “You want to make sure it’s smooth so there’s no risk.” She recommends this striking yet elegant option from Swarovski.
A delicate pearl bracelet is “designed to add a subtle adornment without overpowering your dress or stealing attention away from you,” says Keane. This option is perfect for the bride who just wants a bit of accessorizing.
“I have a love for linked bracelets, and the handmade Cressa bracelet is an exquisite choice to complement a guest's outfit,” shares Keane. “If you want to make more of a statement, you can easily stack multiple Cressa bracelets for an impactful look.”
Another gorgeous pearl option, this timeless bracelet “can easily be mistaken for a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.” explains Keane. The vintage-inspired aesthetic “adds a charm that would capture beautifully in photographs, particularly when styled alongside your invitation suite in a flat-lay arrangement,” she explains.
“Back in 1989, First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis wore this gold-tone cuff featuring exquisite ball embellishments during a memorable dinner at the Kennedy Library,” shares Keane. It’s a true showstopper, and “perfect for the rehearsal dinner to bring some fun and movement to your look.”
Best rings
“This ring is a great choice for enhancing your wedding guest outfit,” explains Keane. “Its design draws inspiration from the elegance of the Art Deco era, adding a touch of vintage charm to your look.”
“Eternity rings symbolize everlasting love and commitment, making them a popular choice for wedding jewelry,” shares Keane. “The seamless and dazzling design represents an unending bond, and they can be worn as wedding bands or stacked with other rings to create a personalized look.”
Sabatino recommends that brides stick to their engagement ring for the wedding ceremony, “but I think a cocktail ring would be fun for the afterparty,” she shares.
Cocktail rings can also be a great option for wedding guests, adds Hubbard. They’re a great way to elevate any look, and come in a range of both neutral and more colorful stones.
“With its sleek and minimalist design, this will effortlessly complement any bridal look you’re looking to achieve,” shares Keane. “Its simplicity adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, making it a versatile accessory for both brides and guests.” Wear it alone or stacked with other rings. Either way, it “leaves an equally impactful impression,” she explains.
Best wedding hair (and other) accessories
“When it comes to hair accessories, you can’t go wrong with anything from Jennifer Behr,” shares Hubbard. “Hair bows have been extremely popular lately." This tulle piece from the new collection is super whimsical, or you can go with an embellished option like the Meadow Bow Barrette or a velvet headband for something simple.
Headbands are another trendy option for a stylish, modern bridal look.
“I always love adding a broach in a discrete spot when I’m able,” shares Sabatino. “Sometimes that is at the shoulder, sometimes it’s at the waist or on the bouquet,” she explains. “Something classic and chic like this one works in a lot of scenarios.”
This dainty stud is the perfect way to complement any bridal or wedding guest look without drawing attention away from the rest of your face. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for high-quality jewelry for a range of piercings, Maison Miru carries a great range of elegant pieces.
For a more vintage-inspired look, a hair pin can be styled in countless ways and serves the dual purpose of accessorizing while holding hair out of your face. Sabatino recommends this effortless and romantic option.
If you’re at a loss as to how to put together different pieces of jewelry for your big day, opt for a jewelry set. Etsy has a ton of unique, handmade options that work equally well for brides or as coordinating bridesmaid jewelry.