The Bride's Jewellery Checklist: What to Wear, and When to Buy It
Wedding season is here. A practical checklist for bridal jewellery: what to wear with your neckline and hair, what to buy versus borrow, and when to order each piece.
June is wedding season across the northern hemisphere. Bridal jewellery should feel like you on your best day: chosen to suit your dress, neckline and hair, and planned early enough that nothing is rushed. Here is a checklist.
Match the jewellery to the neckline
| Neckline | Necklace | Earrings |
|---|---|---|
| Strapless / sweetheart | A pendant or fine tennis necklace | Studs or small drops |
| V-neck | A pendant that follows the V | Drops |
| High neck / halter | Skip the necklace | Statement earrings |
| Off-shoulder | A short, delicate necklace or none | Drops or chandeliers |
Hair changes everything
An updo shows off drop earrings; loose hair suits studs or small hoops that will not tangle. Plan earrings with your hairstylist.
Rings on the day
- Wear the engagement ring on the right hand during the ceremony, then move it back on top of the wedding band.
- Have both rings professionally cleaned the week before.
- Make sure the best person has the rings, in a box, in a zipped pocket.
Buy, borrow or inherit
"Something borrowed" can be a family piece. A grandmother's earrings or a mother's bracelet often mean more than anything new. For pieces you will wear again, such as diamond studs or a tennis bracelet, buying is worth it.
Bridal earrings
Should bridal jewellery match the dress colour?
Usually: white gold and platinum-tone metals with bright white dresses; yellow or rose gold with ivory and champagne.
When should I buy my wedding bands?
About three months before, to allow for making, delivery and any resizing.
Can I wear my engagement ring during the ceremony?
Many brides move it to the right hand so the wedding band can go on first, then stack them afterwards.
