Jewelry for the Most Photographed Day of Your Life
Your wedding jewelry will appear in every photograph from the most important day of your life. Choosing the right pieces — pieces that complement your dress, your venue, and your personal style — ensures you look and feel your absolute best. Here is a practical guide.
The Engagement Ring and Wedding Band
- The foundation: Your engagement ring and wedding band are the non-negotiable pieces. Everything else should complement, not compete with, your rings
- Band matching: Choose a wedding band that sits flush against your engagement ring. If the engagement ring has a distinctive shape, a curved or contoured band may be necessary
- Metal matching: Your wedding band should match the metal of your engagement ring for a cohesive look. If your engagement ring is 14K white gold, your band should be 14K white gold
Earrings
- For updos: Drop earrings or small chandelier earrings are stunning with hair pulled up. They frame the face and catch the light beautifully in photographs
- For hair down: Diamond studs or small hoops work best. Long earrings can get lost in flowing hair. Studs provide sparkle at the earlobe that is always visible
- The rule: Your earrings should complement, not compete with, your other jewelry. If your necklace is the statement piece, keep earrings simple
Necklace
- Strapless/sweetheart neckline: A necklace works beautifully here. A pendant, diamond necklace, or delicate chain adds sparkle to the exposed neckline
- V-neck: A pendant that follows the V shape of the neckline. Elegant and proportional
- High neck/illusion: Skip the necklace. The neckline is already detailed. Focus on earrings instead
- Off-shoulder: A short necklace (16 inches) or collarbone-length chain. Draws attention to the collarbone
Bracelet
- Tennis bracelet: Elegant sparkle on the wrist that catches light beautifully in photographs, especially during the ring exchange
- Delicate chain bracelet: Subtle and elegant. Complements without overwhelming
- Consider: Will you be carrying a bouquet? The bracelet should not interfere with holding flowers or exchanging rings
The Less Is More Rule
For weddings, the dress is the star. Jewelry supports and enhances — it should not compete. Choose 2-3 pieces maximum. Earrings + bracelet. Or necklace + earrings. Not everything at once. The most elegantly photographed brides wear coordinated, restrained jewelry that lets the dress and the emotion speak.
