As we enter June, wedding season is truly upon us. As one the most notable events of the year, celebrating your friends or family on their new chapter can be an exciting and emotional time. From bouquets and confetti to glasses of champagne and late-night dancing, you are sure to have a fantastic time at your friend’s or family wedding.
Whilst there is unspoken rules regarding your attire, such as not to wear white, or to accidentally match the bridal party, finding the perfect pieces that can be dressed up or dressed down is key to making you feel great on a special day.
Wedding Guest Accessories Throughout History
Jewellery has held a cherished place in wedding traditions for centuries, symbolising love, commitment, and enduring union. From ancient civilisations to modern-day ceremonies, adornments such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets have marked the sacred bond between two individuals.
Accessorising with stones, shells, jewels or precious metals to commemorate a special ceremony has been common since ancient times , to represent power and authority. Today, jewellery is more about enhancing your everyday look, perfecting the ideal outfit or adding a statement to your evening wear.
When choosing jewellery for a wedding, the key things you should consider are your outfit, and the theme of the wedding. Jewellery should be an additional highlight to your outfit, aim to be elegant and simplistic, yet sophisticated.
Consider Your Wedding Guest Outfit
Your outfit will depend on whether you are a guest, or in the wedding party. Bridesmaids, mother of the couple or very close friends may already have outfits set out, but if you don’t remind yourself of the venue of the wedding and the invitation to get an idea of colour scheme and theme.
When connecting your outfit to your jewellery, think about the neckline, sleeves and also your hair. If you are wearing an outfit with a lower neckline, it may be a good idea to pair with a necklace to focus the outfit. It is also important to think about your hairstyle. An up-do is ideal for showcasing beautiful, elegant stud earrings, whereas long, flowing hair brings attention to drop earrings.
What Jewellery to Wear Based on Wedding Theme
If you are in the wedding party, it is key that you follow the theme of the wedding. From matching bridesmaid outfits to custom pocket swatches for groomsmen, the matching of colour across the wedding party helps to bring every small piece of the wedding together.
If you are not in the wedding party, it is suggested that you also subtly follow the theme. Though themes may not be strictly stated, gain inspiration from the venue and the invitation cards. Usually, these two clues will be able to represent the tone of the wedding, and they will also influence your outfit. In some cases, invitations may state a colour theme, or the couple may even provide a few examples of what to wear to help fashion their special day, so make sure to look into whether this has been suggested.
Floral Delight at Spring Weddings
Spring weddings call for jewellery that reflects the season’s natural beauty, feeling fresh, romantic, and full of charm. Opt for delicate pieces like Georg Jensen’s Daisy collection, that feature intricately crafted daisies amongst necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. Brightening up your look with a floral touch adds to the theme of the day.
Light colours like cream, white and dewy blue are perfect for the blooming buds of spring, especially when paired with floral motifs, or elegantly crafted precious metal like yellow gold or white gold.
Gold offers a warm, flattering glow that complements the season’s palette, but silver breathes life into looks, reflecting and shining amongst the summer sun. Consider layering fine necklaces or choosing drop earrings that catch the light subtly. Whether you're a guest or part of the bridal party, spring jewellery should feel joyful, light, and inspired by the blossoming world around you.
Black Tie Weddings
Modern or black tie weddings can be easy to coordinate an outfit for. Keep it simple with gold drop earrings, chain bracelets or sophisticated understated pieces like gold cuffs or a delicate necklace with a single precious stone. Choose pieces that enhance your ensemble without overpowering it; diamonds, sapphires, and deep emeralds add richness and depth. Platinum or white gold settings suit formal attire beautifully.
If you choose to wear a strapless or off-the-shoulder gown for a wedding, a dramatic necklace can elevate the entire look, but remember that you do not wish to take attention away from the bride. Keep the overall effect polished and cohesive, ensuring each piece complements the others.
Black tie jewellery should evoke refinement and grace, leaving a lasting impression of understated luxury, thats why, timepieces are always a great accessory for Modern or Black Tie weddings. Understated and suave, Swiss Watches like Omega, Breitling and Tissot are a great addition to any suit.
Wedding Guest Accesories for Exotic Beach Elopments
If you are attending a beach wedding, or perhaps a bohemian style, you may want to look for more nature-inspired pieces to help connect with the theme.
Jewellery should be effortless, meaningful, and inspired by the sea. Lightweight, minimal pieces work best like pearl studs and simple chain bracelets. Choose designs that won’t snag or feel cumbersome in a breezy, barefoot setting. Pearls and leather cuffs help create a subtle and elegant style.
Gold complements sun-kissed skin and the warm tones of sand and sea, while aquamarine or turquoise stones can subtly echo ocean hues. Sapphires to help frame your face, and connect with the ocean.
Pearls are a great way to connect sea to shore in your look. Japanese pearl visionary, Mikimoto, features cultured Akoya pearls in beautiful designs to elegantly frame the wearer, and offer a connection to the natural world.
Sentimental, personalised touches, such as engraved pendants or a locket add heartfelt charm. Beach jewellery should feel natural, relaxed, and infused with the spirit of romance and adventure that defines a seaside wedding celebration.
Get your Wedding Guest Look with Michael Spiers
Celebrate in style with Michael Spiers. Whether you are looking for a piece that marks the special occasion, or something that can be added into your daily look, we can help you.
If you would like to discuss any of the pieces or designers mentioned, we invite you to our showrooms in Truro, Plymouth, Exeter or Taunton where one of our friendly team will be able to help you find the perfect addition to your wedding guest look.
