There was a time when June’s warm breezes signaled the arrival of primly dressed brides, marching down aisles to Pachelbel’s Cannon in D.
Happily, bridal style has taken a playful turn in recent years. Brides are incorporating bright colors, bold pieces and highly personalized accents to their wedding style.
As a jewelry designer, I admit that I love this slight shift toward whimsy.
Classic beauty in the form of strands of pearls with delicate clasps, diamond studs daintily dotting a blushing bride’s earlobes—all these have their place, to be sure. They’re called classics for a reason, after all.
But 21st century brides seem to have loosened their corsets a little. No longer restricted by deference to tradition, ladies are taking liberties with their wedding day style in chic new ways.
Whether you’re a bride looking for accessory accents that make a statement, or keepsake pieces that your bridal party will truly cherish, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Invest in bridal jewelry you can wear again—Sure, you’re ready for your close up and you want to shine brighter than the sun on your wedding day. But try not to choose pieces so completely not “you” that they will end up sitting in a box until your daughter feels obligated to wear them decades down the road. Don’t be afraid to have a little fun with the pieces you choose. Straying from the path of tradition doesn’t have to steal the focus from you. You’ll look and feel your best on your wedding day if you choose jewelry that reflects your style, rather than simply a trend or tradition.
- Rethink pearls—Pearls are wonderfully symbolic. At once strong and beautiful, and with years invested in becoming exactly what they are. But pearls are also wonderfully diverse—in shape, color and origin. Consider a twist on the traditional. Choose a string of baroque pearls in unexpected shapes, or wear a longer strand rather than a choker. An oversized pearl ring is also a modern take on this classic favorite.
- Be kind to your bridesmaids (see point one) – When choosing pieces for your bridesmaids, opt for something sentimental—and affordable—that they will happily wear again. A delicate charm on a gold chain, or a pearl bracelet with an initial disc charm will show your bridesmaids that you really do care.
Whatever you wear on your wedding day, don’t be afraid to infuse it with your personality. Nothing makes a more memorable statement then simply being yourself.
