Bracelets

Sleeve lengths, the diameter of the bouquet and apparel accessories are factors that need to be considered when opting to wear bracelets.. If a bracelet is worn, the fit should be just right. Bracelets should not get caught in the bouquets. If long, smooth, tight, fitting gloves are to be worn, you may want to consider adding a glitzy bracelet over the glove. This dramatic elegant sparkle is best for evening ceremonies and when the dress and glove is in a vivid or deep color which provides a high contrast. This particular look is best achieved with a smaller diameter simple floral bouquet which allows both the glove and the bracelet to capture the attention. When not to wear a bracelet? Typically winter weddings do not dictate the use of bracelets. Skip wearing bracelets when other accessories are being used (like hand muffs and short gloves). Omit wearing the bracelets if the bouquets are arranged in a large diameter or made up of a complex mix of flora. The primary focus in these cases is the bouquets, not the wrists. Large bouquets command the focal point during the ceremony, and bracelets will not be seen.

Earrings

The style of the earrings is dictated by the shape of your face and your hairstyle. The rule of thumb is to wear larger sized earrings if no necklace is to be worn. This will uplift the focal point to your bridesmaids’ face. Select larger dangle earrings for hairstyles that have the romantic wispy look. If the bridesmaids’ hair is to be styled in an “up dos” with hair accessories or even fresh flowers interwoven, then the focal point is the hairstyle not the earrings. Select simple earrings that will not distract from the hair accessories. When earrings are concerned, there are many personal preferences. In this day and age many bridesmaids will have their ears pierced more than once. Stick to simple color coordinated studs that work well with the color of the dress. The question if multiple earrings should be worn is one of etiquette. If the bridesmaids are in question etiquette dictates that they should ask the bride. At the other end of the pierced ear spectrum is that some individuals do not have pierced ears. Clip on earrings are one solution; however, there are a number of people who are uncomfortable with these non-pierced earrings.

Hawaiian Leis

Hawaiian themed weddings are becoming more and more popular. Traditionally, the Hawaiian wedding does not have bridesmaids; however, contemporary brides are including their maidens. This is one circumstance that the type of ceremony dictates the necklace and the dress as well. The necklaces traditionally worn in these tropical weddings are leis. They are made up of white or red natural flowers. These flowers may include ginger (which is the most delicate), orchids, tuber roses or even carnations. This necklace is typically 40 inches long (a closed circle) and is worn half flowing down the front of the bodice and the other half the lei flowing down the back. Hawaiian tradition also dictates that a mother-to-be should wear an “open lei” (not a closed lei) for good luck. Ankles, Feet and Arms

Themed weddings typically make use of some rather not-so-traditional accessories and they bring about some fun with a touch of elegance. So why not add some focal points to the forgotten but visible areas of the ankles, feet and arms? Anklets are a great way to add a touch of sparkle or a glint of gold. Wear an anklet if the hemline of the dress is above the ankles or the slit reveals the ankle.

Anklets can be either a simple chain or beads (including pearls) for casual or daytime weddings. Evening weddings typically dictate more sparkle. If the theme of the event is tropical or Hawaiian consider wearing foot jewelry. Most Hawaiian weddings are performed barefoot, so take the opportunity to accessorize! The foot jewelry for the bridesmaids incorporates red beads or gemstones to accent the traditional red bridal color. To accent the darker red hues of the Hawaiian print dresses, look for garnets in your foot jewelry. You may choose to accentuate only one foot or both feet, whatever your preferences. Materials range from faux pearls to real gemstones.

Another type of wedding that gives the opportunity of wearing different kind of jewelry is the Grecian theme. Arm bands are becoming increasing popular along with this type of event. The major drawback to wearing armbands during wedding ceremonies is one of comfort. The bold metal designs offer a dramatic look and are often a little heavier than you expect. When selecting armbands always try them on and don’t be afraid to test them out for a few minutes more. Comfort is the number one factor when deciding to purchase this accessory. Themed weddings or not, armbands give off a modern elegance with a young sophisticated style.

For the Flower Girl

Overall there is a diminished use of the tiara in today’s weddings; however, it still has its place. Think of the tiara as jewelry. This accent provides more flexibility for the flower girl by achieving a slim elegant sparkle up top without having the complications of the veil. The tiara does not obscure the face of the flower girl and it’s more durable than the delicate veil headpiece. Most often the bride will select a small necklace or charm for the flower girl to wear for the special day. To make the gift even more special there is an option of engraving the charm either with the flower girl’s initials, name or a small note of appreciation. Some people opt to engrave the date of the wedding. If the flower girl is the “miniature bride” then the necklace should accentuate the dress, a small pearl pendant or a simple strand of imitation pearls is a prime choice. She’s a tiny reminder of the girl you once were. She’s dressed up in her best. Give your flower girl a gift she can wear on your wedding day, and cherish for years to come.

Jewelry as Gifts

It is acceptable for the bride to give jewelry to the bridesmaids as a thank you gift and also to wear during the event. This is a method of making sure that there are no fashion mishaps and that the theme of the wedding is carried through to the accessories. Keeping this in mind, there are a few things that the bride must consider when gift giving:

•Take into consideration each individual bridesmaid’s

tastes and preferences

• Acknowledge and be aware of any allergies

• Obtain appropriate sizes of jewelry

• Check to see which individuals have pierced ears,

if giving earrings

When gift giving, the bride does not have to give every bridesmaid identical pieces of jewelry. The theme of wedding can be carried through to the jewelry by giving similar but different pieces. It is perfectly fine for the each bridesmaid to wear different accessories. In fact the more you personalize and give each bridesmaid a similar but different look, the happier they will be.

Necklaces and Necklines

The most successful accessories take into consideration the type of ceremony and the style of the dress. Lately, there has been a trend of bare necks; that is not wearing any necklaces and favoring the focal point of the earrings. This can be considered with any dress and is always an option! The rule of thumb for not wearing any necklaces is when the bodice, collar, or neckline of the dress is ornately embellished. In these circumstances the necklace detracts from the design of the dress. An embellishment includes the use of lace, sequins, crystals, beads, pearls etc.

When should a necklace be considered? When the necklace enhances the neckline, accents the dress and provides an easy focal point. Consider a necklace that is intricate in design with strapless dresses. Necklaces that have a “v” shape enhance the vertical points in the sweetheart necklines.

Henna

Henna is considered to be an ancient Indian body art. Henna is a flowering plant found in some tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Its leaves produce a special red-orange dye molecule called lawsone that binds with protein molecules, making it an excellent dye for the skin. It is used in creating elaborate ethnic or contemporary designs and exotic patterns on various parts of the body; traditionally Henna was applied on the hands and feet of an Indian bride and women preparing for special festive ceremonies. Henna designs can be used as armlets, bracelets, anklets, and general designs on hands and feet. Other than the ethnic and conventional designs, you can opt for contemporary designs, which are sleek and fashionable. Putting henna designs on each of your bridesmaid’s arms, hands, or feet can create an amazingly unique look for your wedding.

Hair Accessories

Decorative hairpieces are a glamorous way of adding a touch of elegance and style. Hairpins add dazzle and excitement to wedding hairstyles and are a unique way to enhance the look of your entire bridal party. The great thing about hairpins is that you have so many choices. You can add as many hairpins as you want and by mixing several types of hairpins together you can create a style that is completely your own. Hairpins will also make great gifts for your bridesmaids. You can even change the color of the crystals to match your bridal colors or the dresses of your bridesmaids. For a classic look have your bridesmaids wear a simple pearl hair comb. Some other accessory options for your bridesmaids are fresh flowers, crystals, feathers or feathered hair ornaments, and pretty barrettes.

EA After Thought Raw & Black Diamond Jewelry

Your best girls will love you forever if you opt to customize their jewelry with raw and black diamonds; your wallet won’t hate you either, as these sparkly alternatives are much less expensive than the typical version. Raw diamonds are typically opaque and elicit an antique, earthy look. Black Diamonds look good on anyone and with anything, so these stones are perfect for everything from the most casual ceremony to a black tie event.