From the first time you slip into the dress to the moment you walk down the aisle, your bridal look should tell your story. At The Dressing Room, we believe your wedding-day style should feel both intentional and effortlessly beautiful.
While your bridal dress is the centerpiece, accessories, shoes, and veils add the magic — enhancing your look without overshadowing it. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance, step by step.
Complete Your Bridal Look in 5 Simple Steps
- Start with Your Dress — Then Build Around It
- Balance is Key: Don’t Compete with Your Bridal Gown
- Choosing the Right Veil
- Shoes that Marry Comfort and Style
- Keep the Theme in Mind
1. Start with Your Dress — Then Build Around It
Before selecting any accessories, focus on finding the bridal gown that makes your heart skip a beat. Your dress sets the tone, whether it’s sleek and modern, classically romantic, or boho and free-spirited.
Once you’ve chosen your dress, the rest of your bridal look can begin to take shape. Consider your gown’s neckline, silhouette, and detailing when choosing add-ons.
For instance, a strapless sweetheart neckline opens up space for a bold necklace or drop earrings, while an illusion neckline might call for minimal jewelry to let the intricate details shine. Let your wedding dress guide every other styling decision.
2. Balance is Key: Don’t Compete with Your Bridal Gown
Accessories should highlight your features and complement your dress, but they shouldn’t steal the spotlight. If your gown is already richly detailed with lace, beading, or embroidery, lean into subtler accessories.
Think delicate hairpins, dainty studs, or a minimalist bracelet. On the other hand, if your dress is streamlined or understated, you have room to play.
Consider a statement headpiece, chandelier earrings, or a dramatic cuff bracelet. The goal? Create harmony between your wedding dress and your add-ons, so everything feels like it belongs together.
3. Choosing the Right Veil
Your veil is more than just tradition, it’s a finishing touch that frames your look. When selecting a veil, length and style matter.
A cathedral-length veil creates drama for formal ceremonies, while a fingertip or birdcage veil works beautifully for more casual or modern weddings. Also, think about how the veil complements your gown’s fabric and silhouette.
Lace-edged veils pair beautifully with lace dresses for a romantic feel, while a sheer, raw-edge veil adds soft elegance to a sleek crepe gown. Trying your veil on with your dress is the best way to ensure the two flow seamlessly.
If you’re wearing a plus-size wedding dress, look for a veil that flows in proportion to your dress’s shape. A long veil paired with a wedding dress that has volume or structure can elongate the frame and create a regal silhouette.
4. Shoes that Marry Comfort and Style
You’ll be on your feet for hours, so comfort matters just as much as style. Yes, your shoes need to look good, but they also need to carry you through hours of standing, dancing, and celebrating.
Start with comfort in mind, then find a pair that aligns with your style and bridal gown. Block heels or low kitten heels offer support without sacrificing elegance.
Want a little flair? Look for shoes with pearl accents, metallic finishes, or even a pop of color that peeks out from beneath your gown.
And if you’re planning an outdoor wedding, consider wedges or flat sandals that won’t sink into the grass. Don’t forget: You can always change into a second pair for the reception if you want to kick up your heels (literally).
5. Keep the Theme in Mind
Your accessories should reflect the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Think of your entire bridal ensemble — not just the dress — as part of your wedding’s visual story.
From rustic to modern, vintage to whimsical, the right accessories tie everything together and give your look cohesion. Your wedding’s overall style should influence your accessory choices.
Be sure your look remains cohesive from head to toe, and reflects the mood of your day. For example:
- Arranging a beach wedding? Consider barefoot sandals or elegant flats that won’t sink into the sand.
- Planning a garden ceremony? Consider a floral hair comb or lightweight veil that moves in the breeze.
- Hosting a black-tie affair? Go glam with crystal drop earrings and a beaded clutch.
Accessories that Complement Plus-Size Wedding Dresses
If you’ll be wearing a plus-size wedding gown, then you have even more room to play with proportion. A wider belt or sash can define the waist and break up the silhouette in a flattering way.
Bold earrings and necklaces can help draw the eye upward. Structured capes or embellished boleros can add elegance and coverage without feeling bulky.
Let Your Personality Shine with a Complete & Breathtaking Look
While styling guidelines are helpful, your personal taste is what makes your bridal look uniquely yours. Accessories are your opportunity to add personality, symbolism, and sparkle to your wedding day look.
Whether you choose a traditional veil passed down from family or a bold pair of heels that make a statement, every choice should feel like a reflection of your love story. At The Dressing Room, we love helping brides find that perfect mix of elegance and expression.
A beautiful bridal look doesn’t just happen; it’s styled with intention, heart, and a little extra shimmer. To explore our latest selection of local wedding dresses and plus-size wedding gowns, book an appointment at our wedding dress boutique today.
