Figuring out what to wear as a wedding guest can feel like a guessing game — maybe your invitation doesn’t specify a dress code, or you’re going solo and only know the special couple (you probably shouldn’t text them about what to wear, they’ve got enough on their minds). If you’re stumped about what wedding accessories to wear, we’ve got you covered. Here are some tips to help you accessorize with the perfect jewelry for your wedding attire.
General Jewelry Guidance for Wedding Guests
There’s a lot of etiquette to follow when attending a wedding, like buying an appropriate gift for the couple and not wearing the same color as the bride. When choosing wedding accessories to wear as a guest, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Consider the dress code: Be sure your jewelry follows the attire guidelines listed in your invitation — wear your more elegant pieces for black tie weddings, for example (more on this in a minute).
- Color match: If you are wearing a silver or gray dress, choose silver or white gold jewelry. If your dress is gold or champagne, opt for gold or rose gold jewelry. If your outfit is colorful, finding a gemstone or enameled piece to match can be a good way to go; for example, an amethyst necklace would pop with a lavender jumpsuit.
- Keep it simple: Avoid wearing large, statement pieces that can upstage the couple on their big day. Instead, opt for understated, delicate jewelry that complements your overall look.
- Consider your personal style: Choose jewelry that reflects your personal style and that you feel comfortable wearing. It can be distracting if you’re fidgeting with uncomfortable jewelry during the ceremony.
- Don't overdo it: Remember that less is often more; limit your jewelry to a few key pieces, such as earrings, a bracelet, and a necklace that go together nicely and match your outfit, too.
Wedding Accessories to Wear Based on Attire
Wedding attire can range from barefoot beach casual to white tie formal and everything in between. Finding the right jewelry to wear will likely depend on the dress code. Check the invitation to find out what kind of occasion the married couple are going for, and plan accordingly. Here are some of our favorite pieces for different types of wedding attire:
Black Tie or Formal
When attending a black tie or formal wedding, think fancy. It’s usually expected that you’ll wear a tuxedo or floor-length gown, so you might consider a few classic, elegant accessories to match your ensemble. While this is a great chance to wear your nicest jewelry, keeping it simple is always a good idea. Here are some formal jewelry choices perfect for a black tie event:
Cocktail
You can consider cocktail attire a step down the ladder from formal attire. It’s still dressy and elegant, but a bit less so. Dresses are normally structured but shorter, and instead of a full tux, blazers and ties are more the style. Choose simple, classic accessories with a hint of sparkle. If you’re attending a cocktail attire wedding, here are some good options:
- Evette Round Diamond Stud Earrings
- Demi Diamond Spear Pendant Necklace
- Birthstone Enamel Necklace and Birthstone Enamel Bracelet
Beach
Getting married on the beach is so dreamy and romantic. Some beach weddings are casual, but dressing up for an event in the sand has its own magic to it. This will involve a bit more than a bathing suit cover-up and flip-flops, though. Think khakis, linen dress shirts, and sundresses; clothing that looks dressed up yet feels comfortable in hot temperatures. For accessories, go for something that feels light, fun, and minimal to match the tone of the occasion. It can be a bit more playful for the tropical, outdoor setting, but make sure you’re still keeping it classy. Here are some accessories to complete your look:
Dressy Casual
Think of dressy casual as mid-tier attire — not as fancy as cocktail attire, but not exactly jeans and a t-shirt either. Jumpsuits, midi dresses, blazers, button-downs, and strappy sandals are all pretty much fair game in the gray area of this dress code. As far as accessories go, you can play around a little bit more with trends like layered necklaces or stacked rings. Here are some versatile pieces that can match whatever vibe you choose:
Casual
While your options are less rigid with a casual attire wedding, you still want to be sure you’re dressing appropriately for someone’s big day. Use “business casual” rules as a helpful frame of reference, and choose attire that feels comfortable. While you can essentially wear whatever you’d like, make sure that you’re honoring the wedding party with smart and respectful choices. Attire can range depending on the venue, theme, and geographical location of the wedding, but normally a sundress or khakis is a good way to go. For accessories, consider jewelry that isn’t loud or distracting, but still feels true to you. Here are some ideas:
Whatever type of wedding you’re attending, remember to have fun celebrating the couple’s big day! Wear jewelry that aligns with the occasion and that makes you feel good. Browse our beautiful jewelry options for guests at any type of wedding, and send our congrats to the happy couple!