Wedding Bling

I have the honor of being a bridesmaid in the upcoming nuptials of my friends Carolyn and Matt. I'm extremely excited to be a part of their big day, but I must admit I'm also pumped to have an excuse to buy some new accessories for the occasion. In a perfect world we would all have heirloom jewels or a hefty budget for fine jewelry, but let's be real: weddings are expensive enough. So here's a round-up of some affordable and versatile options for brides and bridesmaids alike.

First up, the bride. You are likely going to be wearing the most expensive dress you've ever worn, so the most important thing is choosing accessories that compliment the dress. For most brides, neutral jewelry with lots of shine will probably work best, so consider metallics, rhinestones, and pearls.

1. Crystal shapes necklace from J. Crew Factory (on sale)

2. Box clutch from Charming Charlie

3. Spire earrings from BHLDN

4. Beaded bag from Charming Charlie

5. Pearled necklace from Anthropologie (on sale)

6. Pave link bracelet from J. Crew

7. Rhinestone necklace from Zara

8. Mother-of-pearl studs from chloe + isabel

9. Pave bangle set from chloe + isabel

10. Pearl applique necklace from Zara

11. Brass and crystal pendant from J. Crew Factory (on sale)

12. Modern deco stretch bracelet from chloe + isabel

13. Pearl bracelet from BHLDN

Now bridesmaids: by definition you are in the wedding to support the bride, not steal attention away with your flashy jewelry. That said, its likely you are going to be wearing the same dress and shoes as your fellow bridesmaids, so jewelry can be the place to express some personality. Consider pieces in a color that compliments your dress or something with an unusual or interesting shape.

1. Delicate jeweled necklace from francesca's

2. Bangle from Anthropologie

3. Faceted earrings from Piperlime (on sale)

4. Water gardens drops from BHLDN (on sale)

5. Ombre stone box clutch from Charming Charlie (on sale)

6. Beau monde drop earrings from chloe + isabel

7. Metal origami bracelet from J. Crew (on sale)

8. Crystal necklace from J. Crew

9. Crystal earrings from J. Crew

10. Fringe drop earrings from chloe + isabel

11. Faceted earrings from Piperlime

12. Stone cuff from Nordstrom

13. Beaded statement necklace from francesca's

14. Diamond cut clutch from Charming Charlie

15. Beaded drop earrings from francesca's

16. Leaf cuff from Piperlime

The qualities that make for good bridal jewelry versus bridesmaid jewelry are somewhat arbitrary, so if you are a bride and see something you love in the bridesmaid section, or vice versa, go for it. After all, what works best will depend largely on your dress, hair, make-up, personal style, etc. The main thing is finding something you love that you will enjoy wearing for years to come.

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