5. ACCESSORIZE PROPERLY

Veil

Picking a headpiece (a.k.a. "veil") is like picking a new hairstyle; it must flatter your face, not overpower it. When choosing your headpiece, remember that it must conform not only to the dress, it must also flatter and complement your face.

OVAL FACES: You can wear almost any style headpiece.
LONG FACES: A band or wreath is recommended, as it softens the shape of the face.
ROUND FACES: Again, bands or wreaths work. Tiaras also look elegant on women with round faces.

  • Most bridal consultants recommend the Juliet cap with a short veil for a bride who is slightly overweight or short.

  • A full, puffy veil is flattering with a band or wreath.

  • The long cathedral veil doubles as the dress's train.

  • The chapel veil, which is three yards long, looks best with a long-sleeved, full-length gown.

  • An elbow-length or fingertip-length veil looks best with short-sleeved wedding dresses, or dresses with low-cut backs.

  • If you plan to dance at your wedding, choose a veil that can be snapped off at the headpiece.

Gloves

  • If you wear gloves, wear the style and length of gloves that look best with your dress, and if no gloves look right, go bare-handed (impressive advice, huh?).

  • Silk-lined gloves are best so you can easily slip off the left one to accept the wedding band.

Shoes

  • For the shoes, stick with traditional white silk or satin.

  • It is crucial that your shoes are closed toe and closed back, because a closed shoe means less worry about stocking runs.

  • Pick a heel that suits your height and comfort level since you will be wearing them to the ceremony and reception.

  • Get used to wearing them before your wedding day. Walk around your home wearing your shoes about three times.

  • Take sandpaper, or any other material with a rough surface and scrape the bottoms a bit. The idea is to walk down the aisle, not slip.

Jewelry

  • Jewelry should be subdued. Stud-earrings like diamonds or pearls are common.

  • If you must wear a necklace, wear a strand of 16-inch pearls, a delicate pendant or a choker that matches your dress.

  • On your left hand, wear only your engagement ring.

  • Keep your right hand bare, or wear one small ring on your ring finger.

  • Your wrists should be bare too.

  • Exceptions to jewelry should only apply to the "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" tradition. Most brides wear a blue garter belt.

Now you're ready to walk down the aisle. And dahling, you look mahvelous. We just pray that you never have to use that wedding dress again . . .