How to Pick the Right Accessories for Your Bridesmaids: A Fun Guide

Picking out accessories for your bridesmaids can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! The right accessories will complement their dresses, enhance the overall aesthetic of your wedding, and—most importantly—make your bridal party feel fabulous. Whether you’re aiming for glam, boho chic, or classic elegance, here’s how to pick accessories that will make your bridesmaids shine!

1. Start with the Dress Style

The first step in accessorizing your bridesmaids is to look at their dresses. Are they wearing strapless gowns? Halter necks? Long sleeves? The style of the dress will often suggest certain accessories. For example:

  • Strapless Dresses: Statement necklaces are a great option here. A bold choker or a layered pendant can draw attention to the neckline without being overpowering.

  • Halter or High-Neck Dresses: Keep the focus on the earrings! Drop earrings or simple studs can add a subtle touch of sparkle without competing with the dress.

  • Long-Sleeve Dresses: Bracelets or cuffs are ideal for adding a touch of shine to the wrists, especially when your bridesmaids' arms are the focal point.

2. Consider the Wedding Theme

Is your wedding vintage-inspired? Beachy and laid-back? Modern and minimalist? The theme of your wedding should influence your accessory choices:

  • Boho or Beach Weddings: Opt for more natural materials like feathers, leather, or wood. Think beachy hair clips, flower crowns, or beaded jewelry for a carefree vibe.

  • Glam Weddings: Sparkly, statement jewelry works wonders! Think crystal earrings, sparkling tiaras, and statement bracelets. The goal is to create a glamorous look that enhances the elegance of your celebration.

  • Classic Weddings: Pearls and delicate diamonds are timeless. Simple drop earrings or elegant chokers can give a refined look that won’t steal the spotlight.

3. Match the Bridesmaid’s Personality

Let’s face it, your bridesmaids have their own unique styles and tastes. Some might prefer minimalistic elegance, while others lean toward bold, statement-making pieces. Be sure to choose accessories that reflect their individual personalities (without straying too far from the overall aesthetic of the wedding).

  • Minimalists: Choose delicate, understated pieces like simple silver or gold earrings and thin bracelets.

  • Bold Fashionistas: Go for chunky jewelry, eye-catching earrings, and vibrant, statement-making pieces.

  • Creative Souls: How about incorporating fun, quirky accessories? Think personalized pieces or vintage-inspired items for a unique twist.

4. Don’t Forget About Hair Accessories

Hair accessories are a fun way to elevate your bridesmaids’ looks! From floral crowns to glittering combs, the right accessory can take their hairstyle to the next level. Here are a few options:

  • Floral Crowns: Perfect for garden or boho weddings, floral crowns can give your bridesmaids a whimsical, ethereal vibe.

  • Hairpins & Clips: Sparkly pins or jeweled clips can add just the right amount of glam without being over the top.

  • Headbands: A chic headband is ideal for bridesmaids with short hair or for those looking to add a bit of vintage charm.

5. Choose Jewelry That Can Be Worn Again

While your bridesmaids’ accessories should complement your wedding style, you want to make sure that whatever they wear can be worn again—after all, they’re doing you the honor of standing beside you on your big day! Opt for classic, versatile pieces that can work for various occasions:

  • Earrings: Simple studs, hoops, or dainty drop earrings are great for everyday wear.

  • Necklaces: A timeless pendant or chain can be worn for years to come—perfect for other special events!

  • Bracelets: A delicate cuff or bangle can be dressed up or down, making it a great addition to any jewelry collection.

6. Coordinating, Not Matching

One of the most fun trends is coordinating accessories without making everything match perfectly. Allow your bridesmaids to express their individual style by giving them a few options within a color palette or theme. This adds a personal touch while still keeping a cohesive look. For example:

  • Choose earrings that come in different styles but are all made with similar materials (think gold or silver).

  • Let your bridesmaids pick between a statement necklace or a delicate bracelet, as long as the pieces share the same vibe.

7. Consider Comfort

Your bridesmaids will be wearing their accessories all day, so comfort is key! You want them to feel beautiful, but also relaxed. Make sure the pieces are lightweight, especially earrings and necklaces, and that they’re not too tight or uncomfortable to wear throughout the ceremony, reception, and all the dancing that will follow.

8. Don’t Forget About the Shoes!

Accessories aren’t limited to jewelry and hairpieces—don’t overlook the shoes! Whether you’re opting for matching styles or allowing your bridesmaids to choose their own shoes within a color scheme, be sure they’re comfortable enough to walk, stand, and dance in.

  • Classic Pumps: Timeless, elegant, and perfect for a traditional wedding.

  • Strappy Sandals: Ideal for a beachy, summer wedding.

  • Boots: If your wedding has a rustic or bohemian vibe, boots are a fun option.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right accessories for your bridesmaids can be one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding planning! By considering their dress style, personality, and the overall vibe of your wedding, you can select pieces that will make your bridal party look and feel amazing. Remember: It’s all about coordinating, not matching, and ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and beautiful while celebrating your big day.

Happy accessorizing, and don’t forget to enjoy every moment of your bridal journey!

Stacy BlackwellUptown Bride