BOWS, RIBBONS, AND BELTS

Generally, the simpler the gown, the more ornate the accessories can be. Likewise, the more elaborate the gown, the plainer the accessories. Hats, veils, fascinators, shoes, belts, gloves, and bling all fall into the range of trimmings that can complement your overall look. 

HANDBAGS

Lately, we're finding more handbags paired up with bridal gowns. Once upon a time the bridal purse was held open by the bride for cold hard cash and guests dropped their wad as they 'paid' their respects to the newlyweds. Gone are those days and with the exception of a few cultures, the bridal purse is now what it is in everyday life: an accessory used for a compact, a small comb, and lipstick . . .

GLOVES

Whether you're wearing short or long—gloves are glamorous and can add pizazz to your look. If you're getting married when the chill is on, long gloves help warm up hands and arms. You can go with the classic white and ivory or jazz up your look with any length, color, texture, or even pattern. Just like some brides show some spark by wearing different-colored shoes with their gown, glove color is an option you have as well. Experiment, then go right ahead and be as adventuresome as you want! 

JEWLERY

One of the chicest ways to pull yourself together on your wedding day is through exquisite jewelry. A bride’s jewelry can be steeped in sentiment and symbolism: You wear your mother’s pearls-- a Celtic cross that belonged to your groom’s grandmother. Yet, it's not only about pearls and heirlooms anymore. Although they're still staple and elegant, it's great to live in a time when just about any bling can go bridal. One of the best statements you can make is pairing up your dress with your very own kind of jewelry. Remember, trust your own eye. If you're wild about big, bangle bracelets, or a tribal necklace go for it.

BOWS, RIBBONS, AND BELTS

 It's amazing how the thinnest to widest ribbon can add so much (or little) to your dress. Yes, these notions can play a significant role in the adornments department. They can add real style and versatility to a dress, whether tied in the front or back, at the waist, or, in some of these designs, placed just about anywhere.

DRESSING HEAD TO TOE

Your head and feet deserve an entire post or series of posts. Till then, the same principle applies to the head that does to most accessories: The simpler the dress, the more embellished the headpiece/veil or hair extras can be. The more adorned the dress, the less complicated the headwear. 

Photos by Photo Chic

Photo 4 by Jim Vetter Photography

Photo 11 by Dominic Colacchio