How Can I Accessorize a Bridesmaid Dress with Jewelry or Shawls?

 

Choose 1-2 jewelry pieces that complement the dress neckline without overwhelming the look. Match metal colors like gold, silver, or rose gold across all bridesmaids.

Add shawls in chiffon or satin for cooler weather or evening events. Coordinate shawl colors to dress tones or choose neutral ivory and champagne shades.

Keep accessories simple and let bridesmaids express personal style within set guidelines.

Bridesmaid Accessories Quick Guide

Accessory Type	Best Choice	When to Use	Avoid
Necklace	Pendant or delicate chain	V-neck, scoop neck	High-neck, halter dresses
Earrings	Studs or small drops	All dress styles	Heavy chandeliers
Bracelet	Slim, delicate	Simple dresses	Busy, ornate dresses
Shawl	Chiffon, satin	Evening, cool weather	Heavy wool, dark colors
Hair Accessories	Pins, combs, headbands	Updos, half-up styles	Tiaras, bridal pieces

5 Steps to Choose Bridesmaid Accessories

1. Match accessories to dress neckline

V-neck and scoop-neck dresses pair beautifully with pendant necklaces. High-neck or halter styles look best with statement earrings only.

Strapless dresses work with choker-style necklaces or elegant drop earrings. Consider the neckline first before selecting any jewelry.

2. Coordinate metal tones across the bridal party

Choose one metal color for all bridesmaids: gold, silver, rose gold, or platinum. Matching metals creates a cohesive look in photos.

If you choose accessories that are drastically different than your own, the cohesive look that you want can quickly fall apart.

3. Keep it simple with 1-2 pieces maximum

Too many accessories can appear distracting and overwhelming. Choose jewelry that flatters the dress and the person wearing it.

Select one statement piece like earrings and keep other accessories minimal. This approach ensures bridesmaids complement rather than outshine the bride.

4. Consider hairstyle when selecting accessories

Hair worn down looks best with necklaces that highlight the neckline. Earrings may be hidden under loose hair.

Updo styles are perfect for elegant dangling earrings or statement studs. If their hair is going to be down, it’s probably better to choose necklaces that flatter their necklines instead of earrings that will largely be hidden.

5. Test comfort before the wedding day

Try on jewelry and accessories before making final decisions. Bridesmaids need to feel comfortable throughout the entire ceremony and reception.

Heavy necklaces, tight bracelets, or uncomfortable earrings can ruin the experience. Prioritize comfort alongside style.

Jewelry Guide for Bridesmaid Dresses

Necklaces

Best for: V-neck, scoop neck, strapless dresses

Necklaces add elegance to bridesmaid dresses when matched correctly to the neckline. Delicate chains work for most dress styles.

Necklace styles by neckline:

V-neck dresses:

• Pendant necklaces that follow the V-shape
• Y-shaped drop necklaces
• Delicate chains with small charms
• Length: 16-18 inches (sits at collarbone)

Scoop neck dresses:

• Short pendant necklaces
• Single pearl or gemstone drops
• Delicate chains
• Length: 16-20 inches

Strapless or sweetheart decklines:

• Choker-style necklaces (14-16 inches)
• Statement collar necklaces
• Pearl strands
• Bold but not overwhelming pieces

High-neck or halter dresses:

• Skip necklaces entirely
• Focus on statement earrings instead
• Back necklaces (worn on back of dress)

Material options:

• Pearls: Classic, timeless, work with any color
• Diamonds or cubic zirconia: Elegant sparkle for formal weddings
• Gemstones: Match dress color or use birthstones
• Neutral metals: Gold, silver, rose gold coordinate easily

Earrings

Earrings are the most versatile accessory for bridesmaids. They work with every dress style and neckline.

Earring styles:

Studs:

• Pearl studs (classic, elegant)
• Diamond or crystal studs (sparkle without overwhelm)
• Small gemstone studs (add color)
• Size: 5-8mm for balance

Small drops:

• Teardrop shapes (elegant, timeless)
• Short dangle earrings (1-2 inches)
• Delicate hoops (subtle, modern)

Statement earrings (use carefully):

• Chandelier earrings for very simple dresses
• Bold geometric shapes for modern weddings
• Only if necklaces are skipped

Metal and material:

• Gold: Works with warm-toned dresses (coral, peach, champagne)
• Silver: Pairs with cool-toned dresses (dusty blue, lavender, navy)
• Rose gold: Complements blush, pink, and neutral dresses

Comfort considerations:

• Choose lightweight materials to avoid ear pain
• Test clip-ons if bridesmaids have sensitive ears
• Avoid heavy chandeliers for all-day wear

Bracelets

Bracelets add subtle elegance but should be used carefully. They can interfere with bouquet holding during ceremonies.

Bracelet styles:

Delicate chains:

• Single strand bracelets
• Thin tennis bracelets
• Adjustable slide bracelets
• 7-8 inches length

Pearl bracelets:

• Single strand pearl bracelets
• Pearl cuff bracelets
• Match pearl necklaces for coordination

Bangles (use sparingly):

• Single bangle only (not stacks)
• Smooth finish to avoid snagging
• Fits loosely without sliding off

When to skip bracelets:

• If bridesmaids carry bouquets for long periods
• With heavily embellished dress sleeves
• When wearing multiple rings

Shawl and Wrap Guide for Bridesmaid Dresses

Chiffon Shawls

Best for: Spring, summer, garden weddings

The lace or chiffon fabric has a looser silhouette that can be transformed to reflect your personal style. These softer options will give any look a delicate and romantic air.

Features:

• Lightweight and breathable
• Drapes softly over shoulders
• Available in 60+ colors to match dresses
• Affordable price point
• Easy to pack for destination weddings

How to wear:

• Drape loosely over shoulders
• Tie at front or back for security
• Wrap around arms for coverage
• Remove for dancing and photos

Best colors for chiffon shawls:

• Match dress color: Creates seamless, monochromatic look
• Neutral ivory or champagne: Versatile, easy to rewear
• Light gray: Sophisticated, complements cool-toned dresses
• Blush or soft pink: Works with most wedding palettes

Satin Shawls

Best for: Formal weddings, evening receptions

Satin shawls add elegance and warmth to bridesmaid dresses. The smooth finish photographs beautifully.

Features:

• Glossy, luxurious appearance
• Slightly heavier than chiffon
• Better warmth retention
• Available in stretch satin for comfort
• Works for formal venues

How to wear:

• Wrap around shoulders for structured look
• Tie elegantly at front with knot
• Drape over one shoulder for asymmetry
• Secure with small pin if needed

Best colors for satin shawls:

• Champagne: Elegant, neutral, formal
• Silver or gray: Modern, sophisticated
• Navy: Classic, works with most palettes
• Match dress color: Creates cohesive bridal party look

Faux Fur Stoles

Best for: Fall, winter weddings, evening events

Faux fur stoles add glamour and warmth for cold-weather weddings. They create dramatic photos and keep bridesmaids comfortable.

Features:

• Maximum warmth for winter weddings
• Luxurious, elegant appearance
• Available in 7+ colors
• Statement piece for photos
• Reusable for formal events

How to wear:

• Drape over shoulders during ceremony
• Remove for dancing and indoor reception
• Keep in place with hidden pins
• Coordinate color with dress or choose neutral

Best colors for faux fur:

• White or ivory: Classic, bridal-appropriate
• Black: Sophisticated, works with any dress color
• Gray: Neutral, modern
• Match dress color: Bold, cohesive statement

Shawl Color Coordination Guide

Dress Color	Best Shawl Colors	Effect
Dusty blue	Silver, gray, ivory	Cool, elegant
Blush pink	Champagne, ivory, rose gold	Soft, romantic
Navy	Silver, ivory, champagne	Classic, formal
Sage green	Ivory, champagne, light gray	Natural, fresh
Burgundy	Ivory, champagne, gray	Rich, sophisticated
Coral	Champagne, ivory, light gold	Warm, vibrant
Champagne	Ivory, light gold, blush	Neutral, elegant

Hair Accessories for Bridesmaid Dresses

Hair Pins and Combs

Best for: Updos, half-up hairstyles

Hair pins and combs add sparkle without overwhelming the overall look. They secure hairstyles while adding elegance.

Pin styles:

• Pearl-studded pins (classic, romantic)
• Crystal or rhinestone pins (sparkle, formal)
• Floral pins (garden, boho weddings)
• Gold, silver, or rose gold finishes

How many to use:

• Single statement comb for simple elegance
• 3-5 small pins scattered through updo
• Vine style pins that wrap around bun or twist

Headbands

Best for: Hair worn down, sleek styles

Headbands add modern elegance and work beautifully with hair worn down or in loose waves.

Headband styles:

• Pearl-wrapped headbands (elegant, classic)
• Thin metallic headbands (modern, minimalist)
• Velvet headbands (winter, formal)
• Crystal-embellished (sparkle, statement)

Floral Crowns and Clips

Best for: Boho, garden, outdoor weddings

Floral accessories create romantic, natural looks perfect for outdoor celebrations.

Floral styles:

• Full floral crowns (boho, festival-style)
• Single flower clips (subtle, delicate)
• Greenery and eucalyptus (natural, modern)
• Mix of flowers and greenery (romantic)

Complete Accessory Coordination by Dress Style

Strapless Bridesmaid Dresses

Best accessories:

• Statement necklace or choker
• Drop earrings or studs
• Bracelet (optional)
• Shawl for coverage
• Hair worn up to show neckline

What to avoid:

• Multiple necklace layers
• Heavy jewelry that weighs down dress
• Chunky bracelets

Halter or High-Neck Dresses

Best accessories:

• Statement earrings (studs or drops)
• Bracelet or ring
• Shawl for warmth (not coverage)
• Hair worn up or half-up

What to avoid:

• Necklaces (compete with neckline)
• Scarves or chokers
• Busy hair accessories

V-Neck or Scoop-Neck Dresses

Best accessories:

• Pendant necklace or Y-shape drop
• Simple stud earrings
• Delicate bracelet
• Hair worn down or half-up

What to avoid:

• Choker necklaces
• Overly long necklaces (below bust)
• Multiple necklace layers

Accessory Budget Planning

Accessory	Who Pays
Earrings	Bridesmaid or bride gift
Necklace	Bridesmaid or bride gift
Bracelet	Bridesmaid
Chiffon shawl	Bride or bridesmaid
Satin shawl	Bride or bridesmaid
Faux fur stole	Bride gift
Hair accessories	Bridesmaid

Bride gift strategy: If you as the bride do have a specific piece of jewelry in mind, choose it as a bridesmaid gift. Not only is this a polite way to have them wear exactly what you want, but your bridesmaids will love it.

What to Avoid When Accessorizing Bridesmaid Dresses

Too Many Accessories

Over-the-top jewellery: Large, flashy pieces can look distracting and inappropriate. Stick to 1-2 jewelry pieces maximum.

Problems with over-accessorizing:

• Competes with bride’s look
• Appears cluttered in photos
• Uncomfortable for all-day wear
• Distracts from dress and overall look

Simple rule: If wearing statement earrings, skip the necklace. If wearing statement necklace, choose simple studs.

Mismatched Metals

Mixing gold, silver, and rose gold creates a disjointed appearance in group photos. Choose one metal tone for consistency.

How to coordinate metals:

• All bridesmaids wear same metal color
• Match bride’s jewelry metal tone
• Consider dress color when selecting metal

Uncomfortable Accessories

Painful shoes or heavy hair accessories may ruin the day. Always test comfort before the wedding.

Comfort checklist:

• Jewelry should not pinch or pull
• Earrings should be lightweight
• Shawls should not slip constantly
• Hair accessories stay secure without headache

Accessory Shopping Timeline

Timeline	Task
4-5 months before	Discuss accessory preferences with bride
3-4 months before	Shop for jewelry, shawls, hair accessories
2 months before	Order all accessories, allow shipping time
1 month before	Try on full outfit with all accessories
2 weeks before	Make any exchanges or adjustments
1 week before	Final accessory check, steam shawls

Frequently Asked Questions

Should all bridesmaids wear the same jewelry?

If the pieces look like they might sit together on a retail shelf or be styled as a collection, chances are they will look good in photos. Coordinate style and metal tone rather than requiring identical pieces.

Matching jewelry creates a cohesive look but allowing small variations lets bridesmaids express personal style. Choose same metal color and similar style (all studs or all drops) for best results.

What color shawl goes best with blush bridesmaid dresses?

Ivory, champagne, or light gray shawls work beautifully with blush dresses. These neutral tones complement the soft pink without overwhelming it.

Matching blush shawls create a monochromatic look. Choose ivory for easy rewearing after the wedding.

Can bridesmaids choose their own accessories?

Our first piece of advice is to let the bridesmaids decide on their accessories for the opportunity to let their personalities shine. Give general guidelines like metal tone and style while allowing personal choice.

This approach accommodates different budgets and personal preferences. Set parameters like “pearl earrings” or “gold jewelry” without specifying exact pieces.

Do bridesmaids need to wear necklaces?

No, necklaces are optional. High-neck, halter, and heavily embellished dresses often look better without necklaces. Focus on earrings instead.

Simple, strapless, or V-neck dresses benefit from delicate necklaces. Always consider the neckline before adding jewelry.

What jewelry metal looks best with different dress colors?

Gold: Coral, peach, champagne, warm neutrals
Silver: Dusty blue, navy, lavender, cool tones
Rose gold: Blush, pink, burgundy, romantic colors

Match metal tone to dress undertones for cohesive look. When in doubt, choose silver for versatility.

When should bridesmaids wear shawls?

Wear shawls during outdoor ceremonies, evening receptions, or cool-weather weddings. Remove for indoor dancing and formal photos unless part of coordinated look.

Outdoor weddings may require practical accessories, like comfortable footwear for uneven ground or shawls for cooler weather. Keep shawls nearby for temperature changes.