Now that I have found a wedding dress that I absolutely adore, I quickly started to realize there are more items needed to complete one’s bridal look than simply donning a white dress. Those little details can transform your overall look and give it a certain theme, from a boho flower crown to a formal cathedral veil. There are so many resources for gorgeous inspiration when looking for your bridal accessories - I love seeing a new idea pop up every day on the Nebraska Wedding Day blog! To keep myself on track and make sure I have every piece coordinated, I made a checklist of items to pick out:
VEIL: This is not a required wedding-day accessory, but for me, it was a must! In my eyes, there is something about a classic veil that just makes a girl instantly turn into a bride.
HAIR ACCESSORY: I am undecided on this one detail. I absolutely adore the romantic look of a little sparkle accenting an updo (since the wedding is in July, I know my hair will definitely be going up!). It’s also a great idea so you keep a little something special in your hair after your veil comes off for the reception. If you choose a hair accessory, be sure to take it with you to your hair trial so your stylist can have a chance to work with it before the big day!
SHOES: These are a MUST to have selected before your first alterations appointment. Your seamstress is going to want to make sure they hem your dress perfectly to your height – including any added heel you may be wearing. These were one of the first items I picked out, and I can’t wait to wear my pair of ivory satin peep toe heels with big rhinestone bows. My favorite part being the “something blue” soles. Now to start breaking them in ...
JEWELRY: Earrings, a bracelet, a necklace ... While the style and shape are largely dictated by the style of your gown and your personal style, these are items to seek out early so you don’t overlook them! The day I picked out my gown, I went through many different earring lengths and styles to determine the look that would best compliment my gown and enhance its detailing. I chose a slight drop for a more formal look, and the only other piece I’ll be wearing is a classic bracelet. Tip: Wear your bracelet on your right wrist the day of the wedding. You don’t want to take away from the stars of the show (your engagement ring and new wedding band) in any photos.
BELT: While my gown does not require an added belt, this is another item you may want to select when you choose your gown, or shortly after. Some hand-beaded belts can take time to be produced, and you will want to make sure it has arrived so it can be stitched on to your dress during the alterations process.
GARTER: We have chosen to forgo the traditional “garter toss,” but don’t forget to purchase a set if you will be incorporating it as part of your reception. Traditionally, you will want one to keep and one to toss.
CLUTCH: This is one item that is still on my to-get list! I know I want something with some sparkle and something that can hold my phone. However, I’m not sure I will really use it much, so this will most likely end up being a borrowed item.
Many of these items are great ways to also include family heirlooms on your big day. It could be your grandmother’s strand of pearls, your mother’s earrings or your best friend’s veil. I can’t wait to finally be able to put all the pieces together to truly feel like a bride for the day!
images via Pinterest
