A wedding is a major event in anyone’s social calendar, which is why you’ll need an out-of-this-world outfit for any upcoming nuptials. If you’re struggling to plan your look or searching for inspiration, there’s no need to panic! Whether you’re heading to an intimate, beachside ceremony or an all-day affair with a star-studded guestlist, these seven essential accessories will take your wedding outfit to the next level:
1. Shoes
You will, of course, want footwear that complements your outfit and encompasses effortless style, but don’t forget to consider how comfortable your shoes will be. If you’re planning to dance all night to celebrate the happy couple, painful shoes could stop you from showing off your best moves. With on-trend heels, wedges or sandals, however, you can combine style and comfort for the entire event.
2. Scarves, Shrugs, and Wraps
Unless you’re jetting off abroad to attend a wedding, you’ll want to ensure you’re prepared for all eventualities when it comes to the weather! Even weddings held in the height of summer can suffer a little drizzle, but you can keep warm with a chic scarf, shrug, or wrap to enhance your outfit.
This has the added advantage of following age-old traditions of covering your shoulders during the ceremony too, so pay homage to the customary practices while elevating your style. Bright and bold colours are in this season and scarves, shrugs and wraps make it easy to add a pop of colour to your wedding outfit.
3. Hats and Headpieces
A wedding is a perfect excuse to don a spectacular hat or headpiece, so don’t miss out on the chance to take things up a notch. Remember – your headwear can transform your look, so bear this in mind when you’re choosing the perfect piece to complete your outfit.
If you want to add a little height, for example, choose a hat or ‘hatinator’ with a tall crown height, while low and medium crown heights will work well if you’re naturally tall. Similarly, consider your face shape when selecting which hat, headpiece, or fascinator to wear. A large-brimmed hat or wide fascinator complements a square jaw, while saucer-style ‘hatinators’ are a great choice for elongated faces.
When choosing a hat, headpiece, or fascinator, be sure to consider your hairstyle before making your final selection. How you wear your hair will have a huge impact on how the piece sits and looks, so try on potential candidates after styling your hair.
4. Necklaces and Chokers
Jewellery is the ultimate accessory and it’s capable of taking virtually any outfit to the next level. When complementing your wedding outfit, however, remember that less can be more when it comes to bling. If you’re wearing a bright or patterned dress, for example, choose understated jewellery to avoid overshadowing the design. Conversely, if you’re wearing block colours, neutral, or dark tones, you can be more adventurous with your accessories.
Start by selecting a ‘centrepiece’, like a necklace or choker, and build your final look around it. Pearls are a fabulous look for a wedding, for example, and the Graziella Pearl Choker by Vivienne Westwood will look sensational with a range of necklines and hues. Once you’ve chosen your ‘centrepiece’, you can add complementing pieces to complete your look.
5. Bracelets, Earrings, and Rings
Whatever you’ve chosen as your jewellery ‘centrepiece’, you can use bracelets and/or rings to complete the look. A chunky bracelet or bangle can be a stylish way to adorn bare arms, for example, and a showstopping ring is sure to draw attention.
When it comes to earrings, consider your headwear when deciding whether to opt for understated studs or eye-catching drop earrings, like the Gia Drop Earrings by Vivienne Westwood. It’s best to accompany a large hat or fascinator with more sedate earrings but a smaller headpiece can be complemented with dramatic or dazzling jewels.
6. Purses and Bags
A purse or bag is essential at a wedding, but you won’t want to repurpose your everyday handbag for a big event. Instead, you’ll need something suitable for the occasion. If you want something compact to carry your essentials, a clutch bag is the ultimate wedding outfit accessory. Available in a wide range of materials and shades, you can find the perfect accompaniment to any style.
Alternatively, a baguette bag, barrel bag, frame bag, or minaudiere will give you a little more space to store your must-haves. From leather and suede to quilted and even satin, there are endless options to choose from.
Top Tip: If your bag or purse features metal clasps or zips, try to match this to the jewellery you’re wearing. If you’re rocking a silver necklace and bracelet, for example, choose a bag with silver, rather than gold, adornments.
7. Belts and Waistbands
The right belt can transform a great outfit into something really special, particularly if you choose a piece that features pearls or a little sparkle. If you want to cinch your dress and create a more defined silhouette, for example, a belt is an easy way to achieve your goal and elevate your style at the same time.
If you have a longer torso, a wide belt can be an effortless way to shorten your upper body, while women with shorter torsos can use a thin belt to add definition without covering their midsection. Choose a belt that fits snuggly across your natural waist and select a design that complements or contrasts with the rest of your outfit. A solid colour will work well against a patterned dress, for example, but a contrasting colour will add visual interest if you’re wearing a block colour outfit.
Curating Your Wedding Style
Preparing for a wedding can be fun and exciting but it can also be a stressful process – whether you’re a guest or the bride! By experimenting with your wedding style, however, you can plan ahead, showcase your style and enjoy every moment of the ceremony, wedding breakfast, and after-party!
Keep an eye on our blog for more helpful information when it comes to looking after your designer wear, as well as fashion hints and tips.
