Do Bridesmaids Wear the Same Jewelry as the Bride?

Bridal jewelry should complement the bride's gown.

A bridal gown is separate from all other dresses at a wedding, and the same thought applies to her jewelry. The bride is the star and her jewelry should accent and complement her gown. Bridesmaid jewelry follows its own set of guidelines. Some elements may carryover from the bride to bridesmaid like matching the jewelry to the wedding theme, but for the most part, bridesmaids can accessorize as they wish. Does this Spark an idea?

Identical or Not?

Bridemaid jewelry can be identical or different among the women.

It’s up to the bride if she wants the bridesmaid's jewelry to match. There is no rule set in stone either way. Some brides opt for a harmonious look of identical dresses, jewelry and shoes, while others mix things up and vary one or all. Jewelry in one color family, but subtly different is popular (e.g., four faceted stone, gold necklaces of the same style in ruby, amethyst, sapphire and emerald). The same notion could be applied to a jeweled toggle or chain bracelet. It’s common but not always customary for the bride to gift her bridesmaids with identical or varying jewelry as a thank-you gift. Another route is to let the girls just wear their own selected pieces.

Follow the Event’s Scheme

Consider the wedding's style when selecting your jewels.

When purchasing bridesmaids dresses and bridesmaids jewelry, complementing the wedding colors and overall style should be considered. For a formal affair, wear classic gold, silver or crystal pieces. If the wedding is on a beach, opt for casual wood beads or freshwater pearls. For a vintage-inspired event, go with subtle jewelry like delicate metal or antiquated jewels. At an ultra-modern wedding, try a heavier, richer, semi-precious jewel like a turquoise pendant. If you want the jewelry to grab equal attention as your dress, choose a contrasting color. For example, wear a neutral brown dress with purple jewels. To further align your style with the wedding motif, pick your jewel color from the bridal bouquet.

Follow the Dress’s Style

Follow the event's theme and design when picking accessories.

Consider the design and cut of the bridesmaid dress. If the dress emphasizes the chest area, wear a necklace. Necklaces are ideal if the jewels rest against your skin in the scoop of the dress. If the neckline reaches your collar bone, go with a bracelet and earrings. Mirror the dress’s design as well -- for a vintage dress, go with delicate, heritage jewelry. If it’s modern, try chunkier pieces. Keep in mind your hair as well; if your hair will be worn down, focus on a bracelet or necklace, and if you’re wearing an up-do, try drop earrings. Headbands are a great way to add panache as well. Just limit your jewelry to two focal pieces. Too much of anything is not a good thing.

Etiquette

Bridal style will hopefully come easy for such a special occasion.

If the bride gifts you your bridesmaids jewelry to wear on the big day, it's best to just wear it -- even if you're not comfortable wearing chandelier earrings or a pearl necklace doesn’t suit your style. Most likely, since you're in the wedding, the bride will know the style of those closest to her and you'll get to appreciate a new, meaningful piece of jewelry.

References

• Wedding Accessories: How to Pick Jewelry to Match Your Gown
• FAQ: Wedding Jewelry and Your Bridesmaids