Hats
As with many accessories, you want
to complement the overall look with your hat selection. Don't overdo it with a
hat of contrasting colors or proportion. Hats that are pinned down at awkward,
unnatural angles also distract from you by having your guests focus their
attention on if your hat will fall off.
Hats are more common at outdoor
weddings. But it is at these events where they are also the most in jeopardy.
Many hats have been known to be upset by even the gentlest of breezes. So in
these instances, make sure that the hat is securely anchored, or that you can
easily swap out the hat for a more accommodating headdress.
Hats are selected by using our
formula of contrasting your features. If you have a round face, choose a hat
that creates a vertical scheme either in shape or fabric pattern. If you have
long, thin facial features, choose a hat with a round shape.
For scale, a hat should fit your
size. Petite brides should wear smaller hats, larger brides may be able to wear
a larger hat.
Jewelry
As with many accessories, the
generality of "simpler is better" can be applied to jewelry. Remember
that if your gown and/or headpiece are ornate, jewelry may not be able to
compete for top billing. To this end, generally simple jewelry arrangements are
preferred. As with this rule, though, there can be some exceptions, simple silk
dresses may be complemented with brooches to add color and texture.
Here are a few very good tips that
apply to almost any traditional wedding attire. A watch can be omitted, why
worry about time on your special day. Keeping time is a responsibility of the
best man and matron of honor. Rings other than your wedding set are to be
avoided by you and your attendants.
Earrings are best if they are
simple and do not dangle. The constant moving of the earrings may detract from
your more elegant attire. A great rule of thumb, is to use the rule of thumb,
choose earrings no larger than the tip of your thumb. Simple pearls and diamonds
are great, as are fashion jewelry that matches your, or your bridal party's
dresses.
Long strands as well as choker
necklaces are less likely to be chosen over medium strands of between 18-20
inches. This length of necklace creates a great V-line at your chest. The V
shape creates an illusion of broader shoulders, slimmer waist and a fuller
breast. Try as you may, it is very difficult to do better than a simple strand
of pearls of 18-20 inches.
The ideas presented for the bride are also great ideas
for your bridesmaids. You want more complements on your dress than for your
jewelry. And you don't want disastrous problems caused by earrings caught in
hair, etc.
Purses
Many wedding experts recommend only a
simple gift sack to be carried only at the reception and only if your family
tradition allows it. You will know when to have a gift sack.
Veils and Headpieces
Size is important, it should be an
accessory to complement the dress, not to overwhelm it. Take your dress along
with you as you shop for your veil, as the two must match well.
If tall and thin, you may desire a
larger scale veil. Likewise, if you are petite, you may opt for a smaller
headpiece. Your face shape will also help to determine the shape of the veil.
Brides with narrow faces may want a veil that adds volume, especially by a airy
veil that puffs out at the top. For a rounder facial shape, you want a veil,
that by shape or material selection, creates a vertical element.
Don't cover up a lovely back of a
dress with a veil, remember that for the most significant part of the ceremony,
your back will be to the audience.
Looking for a great alternative to
a veil. For a simpler look, choose a garland of flowers to be worn in your hair.
As with veil selection, choose flowers with proportion in mind. You don't want a
look of a rose garden in your hair, as much as you wouldn't like to have a few,
simple flowers get lost in a natural hair style
Gloves
Gloves are worn more often in
certain areas of the country, and are a trendy (fleeting) fashion accessory.
More than any accessory, the wrong glove can destroy your whole look. Choose
them with discretion and usually only if you are wearing a short sleeved gown.
Gloves are usually made from a
solid fabric or are crocheted. Crocheted gloves are generally preferred. Glove
material should be chosen to complement, not overwhelm your dress. Unlike
hosiery, gloves with vertical patterns, usually do not slim arms. Gloves are
either long or wrist high. Gloves never go with long sleeve gowns. Pick fancier
gloves for simple dresses and more plain ones for fancy gowns. With so many ways
to go wrong with gloves, it is always easier to pick a dress with long sleeves
and not have to worry about gloves at all.
Hosiery
Since it is still traditional for
the groom to remove the bride's garter at the reception. It is important
therefore, to have acceptable hosiery. And if you're your garter is higher than
the top of your pantyhose, read on.
Hosiery should be white to
off-white, with a lace pattern. Many patterns are available with a vertical
pattern, which will slim down heavier legs by creating a vertical illusion. Hose
with full and semi-sheen should be avoided for brides worried by a heavy leg
look. Above other thoughts, please do not wear knee-highs. Knee highs are more
comfortable, but they do not all that appealing in photos of your groom removing
your garter.
Handkerchiefs
Traditionally a handkerchief made
from the gown of a family member has been used. It is still a great sentiment
and useful complement (also great for the "something old"). These
hankies are passed through the bride's family, many times being embroidered with
names and dates of use.
Now where should we put that item.
It should be accessible for times when you need to wipe lipstick from well
wisher kisses, or dry your eyes or brow at the ceremony. It is neatly hidden in
a carried bible, or can be tucked away in a glove or in a sleeve.
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