So you’ve got the gown, and it’s absolutely divine. WAIT! You’re not ready to walk down the aisle just yet!

There are five absolutely must-have accessories that you will need to complete your look as the bride. I’m not including your bouquet, as this is technically not an accessory. These five items will really help you shine on your big day.

1. THE VEIL: A bride truly looks like a bride when she is wearing a veil.

In my many years of experience with brides, the oohs and aahs always came after the veil was placed in the bride’s hair. There are so many veil designs to choose from, and the main thing to consider is that the veil needs to compliment the dress. There’s no point wearing a veil that does not work with the dress.

If your dress has beading on it, why not wear a veil with beaded edges, such as the Starlight veil by Wedding Veils Australia.

Whether it’s short or long, the veil really is the defining bridal accessory.

 

 

 

 

 

2. THE HEADPIECE OR HAIR ACCESSORY: There are many options to choose from here, such as crystal beaded hair combs, sparkly tiaras and fascinators. The key is deciding on the look you are going for.

A popular choice is a crystal hair comb which is worn on the side of the head, beside the veil. For example, the Stardust Diamonte and Crystal comb by Wedding Veils Australia, is a charming and very sparkly crystal comb. Very complimentary with most veils.

Other hair accessories include fascinators, headbands, tiaras and sparkly hair pins. Choose a hair accessory that compliments the design features of your dress.

 

 

 

 

 

3. THE NECKLACE: A stunning necklace frames your decolletage and adds a beautiful sparkle. Crystals, diamontes, pearls or if you can afford the real thing – diamonds, freshwater pearls, or a range of other precious gemstones can add the most alluring look to your bridal gown.

Bridal jewellery can be dainty and delicate, or bold and brassy. The choice is yours, but make sure you choose something that won’t overpower your dress.

If your dress is simple and uncluttered, you can afford to choose a bold necklace, which will make a statement. For a more embellished or heavily beaded gown, choose a delicate or simple necklace.

 

 

 

 

4. THE EARRINGS: Next choose your earrings. Ideally these should compliment your necklace. Some jewellery stores sell necklace and earring sets, which is a great option. However if the necklace you choose does not have matching earrings, choose some with similar elements in them.

For example, the Swarovski crystal and pearl necklace from Handmade by Diana is beautifully complimented by these earrings, also by the same designer.

 

 

5. THE SHOES: Last but certainly not least, are the shoes. Again there are many options to choose from, but remember that your wedding shoes should compliment your dress.

Wedding shoes should be appropriate to the season of your wedding. For example, if your wedding is in summer, then open-toed shoes or sandals would be a good choice. In winter, choose closed shoes or open toed shoes if you fancy.

Shoes are the perfect finishing touch to your dress. When choosing wedding shoes, keep in mind that they should be comfortable as well as stylish. Remember you will be wearing them for at least eight hours or so, and the last thing you want on your wedding day is to have aching feet.

To accessorize your bridal gown perfectly, keep this tip in mind:

Simple gown – bold accessories; Embellished or detailed gown – simple accessories.

Now you’re almost ready to walk down the aisle!