Mastering the principles of styling your bridal look

By understanding the principles of styling, you can create a cohesive and stylish bridal look that reflects your personality.

Mastering the principles of styling is a bit like painting—each accessory is a brushstroke that adds depth, intrigue and a dash of magic.

The key lies in balance and proportion, ensuring that your bold statement necklace or wedding veil doesn’t overshadow your delicate earrings. Or your fully embellished wedding dress doesn’t clash with your textured veil.

By carefully selecting and layering accessories, and considering elements like texture and scale, you can craft a look that is not only visually beautifully but also deeply personal. A thoughtful approach to styling allows your true self to shine through, making your bridal look a beautiful expression of who you are.

Come with us as we explore some guidelines to help you avoid over-accessorising your bridal look and how to achieve a balanced, stylish bridal style that reflects you.

Shop this look: KINDRED bracelet, ELLA pearl earrings, GIAN pearl earrings

1. Follow the Rule of Three

Stick to no more than three main accessories at a time. This can include items like a statement necklace or wedding veil, a pair of earrings, and a bracelet. By limiting your accessories, you ensure each piece gets the attention it deserves.

2. Balance statement and subtle pieces

We recommend building around a focal point. Start with the accessory you want to highlight the most, then add complementary pieces that enhance it without overwhelming your look. For example, pair a bold embellished veil with a simple pair of pearl drop earrings or a delicate bracelet. This prevents your look from becoming overwhelming.

By understanding the role of each accessory, this can add depth and interest to your bridal look and create a cohesive personal style.

Balancing pieces also includes taking into account the balance of trends and classic styles. You can still incorporate trends into your look by mixing one trendy piece with your classic styles.

3. Consider your wedding theme

Consider the setting and formality of your wedding day when choosing your accessories. For formal weddings, opt for classic and understated pieces. For more relaxed weddings, you can be more playful and adventurous with your choices.

4. Complement your outfit, don't compete with it

Your accessories should complement your outfit, not compete with it. Ensure the colours are tonal, the styles work together and the materials and details of your accessories harmonise with your wedding dress. If your wedding gown features patterns and embellishments, opt for simpler accessories to give the key features on your dress room to breathe.

5. Focus on proportion

Ensure your accessories are proportionate to your body size and the scale of your wedding outfit. Petite frames should avoid oversized pieces, while taller individuals can carry bigger, bolder accessories.

6. Layer thoughtfully

When layering accessories, such as necklaces or bracelets, aim for balance and harmony. Choose pieces that vary in length and texture but have a cohesive theme or colour scheme.

7. Consider your hairstyle and makeup

Balance your accessories with your bridal hairstyle and makeup. If you’re wearing a bold statement necklace or veil, opt for a simpler hairstyle and make up to keep the focus on your accessory.

8. Focus on quality over quantity

This applies to fashion in general – invest in a few high quality, versatile pieces that you can mix and match or incorporate into your wardrobe. Classic styles such as pearl drop earrings, a pearl necklace featuring freshwater pearls or a statement bracelet can elevate your everyday wardrobe well after your wedding day.

9. Blend style with functionality

Your wedding day is not the day you want to feel uncomfortable. We always recommend choosing accessories that are not only beautiful but also practical. Ensure the veil length feels manageable for you. If you don’t normally wear high heels, choose shoes that are stylish and also comfortable for you to walk in all day.

Example of balanced accessorising

Wedding dress: Classic sheath style wedding gown, solid fabric

Accessories:

Statement veil: A bold statement veil to accentuate your dress and frame your silhouette.
Earrings: Simple pearl drop earrings that complement the details on your veil.
Necklace: No necklace as this will compete for attention around your face and neckline.
Bracelet: Depending on how embellished the veil is, a delicate bracelet can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming the look.
Shoes and/or bag: Neutral tones to match the dress and to let your dress, your hair and veil to stand out.

Want more bridal inspiration and tips?

For more bridal inspiration and tips, explore the Style Journal on our blog, and follow us on Instagram and Pinterest. We’re here to help you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself on your wedding day, and create the wedding of your dreams.

Need personalised styling advice?

Feel free to send us an email with photos of your wedding dress and bridal hairstyle and we would be happy to send you recommendations and ideas via email.

Every wedding gown and bride is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision, height and hairstyle. We love to work with our brides to create the perfect veil that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day. We are based in Australia and ship worldwide.