I recently received an e-mail from a bride-to-be who wanted to some tips on finding the perfect jewelry to go with one’s wedding gown. I realized very quickly that I haven’t touched on that subject at all and was quite shamefaced. To atone for that sin, I’m going to briefly touch on it now.

The Necklace:
According to Wed Alert, you have roughly five lengths to choose from. There’s the one to three strand choker, the thicker collar, the princess (which falls below the hollow of the neck), the matinee (which hits the top of the bust), and the opera (which falls below the bust and isn’t often a good match for most wedding gowns).
I love chokers and collars. Paired with a more modest gown, they can really shine. With a lower cut or strapless gown, however, there is often a huge gap of skin between the necklace and the dress which can draw the eye and look rather awkward. It that case, I think Y necklaces like the Swarovski Floating Y Crystal Necklace above look fantastic. With a high, turtle-neck type neckline, no necklace is needed.
The lovely Lori suggests: “making sure that the bottom of the necklace does not fall below the neckline.” This is important!

The Earrings:
There is a ton of variations where earrings are concerned and, as earrings tend to be smaller and less eye-catching, there is more room to play. But there are still a few things to consider. Smaller, stud earrings look great with looser hairdo’s or even loose hair. Longer, more dangly drop earrings look fabulous paired with updo’s. If your necklace is elaborate, keep your earrings simple, like the diamond studs in white gold above.
In the end, just remember to balance your jewelry and dress. If your dress is elaborate, keep your jewels simple. Or go hog wild with your baubles if your dress is plain. If you’re wearing a tiara, consider going earring-less.
It’s easy. No, really!