The Ultimate Bridesmaid Accessories Guide

For bridesmaids, the hardest part of wedding preparation (picking the perfect dress) is often done for you by the bride. All that's left is to choose the right bridesmaid accessories to complete your look. And while this is easier once your dress is selected, it's still a task that can come with a lot of questions. There are so many things to think about: bridesmaid hair accessories, jewelry, purses, shoes and maybe even belts. It's hard to know where to start, what's appropriate and what should be skipped. We enlisted the help of an expert stylist to find out exactly what to shop for, so read on for our bridesmaid accessories guide that answers all your questions.

In this article:

• Everything to Know About Choosing Bridesmaid Accessories
• Where to Buy Bridesmaid Accessories
• Our Favorite Bridesmaid Accessories for Every Style

Everything to Know About Choosing Bridesmaid Accessories

In some weddings, the bride will be upfront and direct about exactly what she wants her bridesmaids to accessorize with—she may even supply those accessories, like bridal party jewelry, herself. If that's not the case, you need to make those decisions yourself. Accessories are a big part of a final look and should be taken seriously, so be sure to keep these tips in mind.

What accessories do bridesmaids need?

There's no one specific accessory a bridesmaid absolutely must wear to a wedding. You'll probably definitely want to have a clutch or a purse to stash essential items, and at least one piece of jewelry, whether that's bridesmaid earrings, a necklace, bracelet or ring. A light layer, like a shawl, may be good depending on the weather and something like a belt can be considered for your dress. Hair accessories can really add something to a hairstyle and be fun in photos.

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The most important thing is that the accessory matches the style and theme of the wedding. "Aligning with the bride's style and overall aesthetic of the wedding party, decor and location is crucial to achieving a cohesive look that compliments the bride and groom on their big day," says Risa Kostis, The Wedding Emergency Stylist and co-founder of The Rescue Kit Company.

Who chooses the bridesmaid accessories?

It's not uncommon for the bride to either purchase accessories for her bridesmaids to wear or tell them exactly what she wants them to buy. "I think anytime the bride has an overall vision for her wedding party, she should take control of the accessories," Kostis says. "That way it's clear as to what everyone should be wearing and there are fewer chances of needing to have an uncomfortable conversation if someone chooses something that doesn't fit the aesthetic."

However, some brides may give bridesmaids free rein when picking what to wear. Kostis still thinks it's a good idea for the bride to offer some guidelines and inspiration for a more cohesive look, but if they don't do that, she recommends just trying to keep in line with the vibe of the wedding if possible. Even if the bride does tell you to pick things on your own, it might be a good idea to run your bridesmaid accessories by her before the big day to get her opinion.

Do all the bridesmaid accessories need to match?

Just like matching dresses, bridesmaids often also wear matching accessories, something Kostis says gives a "very clean and uniform look." This is the best option for more traditional weddings and bridal parties who are all wearing the same dresses. "I think keeping to the same accessories when you're doing matching dresses is a good rule of thumb so no one sticks out," Kostis says. If the wedding party is wearing mismatched bridesmaid dresses, she thinks this is a better opportunity to wear mismatched accessories as well.

How can I pull off mismatched bridesmaid accessories?

For brides who don't care if the accessories match, she recommends that bridesmaids pick options that complement each other even if they don't look the same. "If the pieces look like they might sit together on a retail shelf or be styled as a collection, chances are they will look good in photos," Kostis says. She notes that miscellaneous pieces that don't go at all may look awkward altogether. She also recommends opting for pieces that work with the style of each dress, the hairstyle, neckline and shoe choice.

Where to Buy Bridesmaid Accessories

Whether you're shopping for a chic bridesmaid clutch, jewelry or accessories that fit in with recent bridesmaid trends, these retailers are great places to start shopping.

Anthropologie: Anthropologie's website has a dedicated wedding section with hundreds of different accessories available, including jewelry, shawls, hair accessories of all kinds, bags, belts and more. Prices range from affordable (under $50) to more of a splurge (in the hundreds) and they sell a wide variety of brands. There are classic options, more trendy ones and feminine picks, so there's something for everyone.

Lulu's: Shop for accessories in Lulu's wedding section or their regular accessories section. Either one has hundreds of options including jewelry, shawls, hair accessories, bags and more. Everything is pretty affordable as most items are going to be under $50, so this is a great place to buy a bunch of matching pieces or just one.

Birdy Grey: Birdy Grey is a great online destination for bridesmaid dresses, so it makes sense that they would also sell accessories for a wedding party. You can find jewelry, shawls and shoes, as well as items for flower girls and ring bearers and even some shaping undergarments. Everything comes in at a reasonable price point and some items can be personalized. Bonus: Use our code "THEKNOT20" for 20% off PJs, robes, loungewear, shoes, jewelry, & accessories.

Olive & Piper: Jewelry brand Olive & Piper has a whole section of their website dedicated to bridesmaid rings, bracelets and necklaces. Everything is affordable but the pieces don't look cheap. You can find jewelry that gives off understated elegance, with traditional options that are also versatile enough to work with almost any wedding vibe.

Lelet: For a beautiful hair accessory, Lelet is easily one of the best options. The luxury brand sells some truly gorgeous hair clips, barrettes, bobby pins, headbands and more, as well as jewelry. While some pieces can be pricey, they're great quality and will last years.

Our Favorite Bridesmaid Accessories for Every Style

From bridesmaid purses to matching jewelry sets, we've found something for everyone. When trying to decide what to buy, Kostis says, "Keeping a balanced look in mind is key." Remember to opt for understated pieces that don't steal the spotlight and items that work with your gown—nothing too flashy or bold.

Velvet Rhinestone Heart Bow

Photo: Anthropologie

Available in black, white and a pretty light pink shade, this sweet bow clip makes any hairstyle instantly feel more charming and feminine. The rhinestone heart in the middle is an adorable ode to the love everyone will be feeling all night. You can wear this with an updo or with your hair down.

Bridesmaid Hoop Earrings

Photo: Idyl

A classic hoop will go with almost any dress and any wedding theme. This one has a different spin on it, with a ropelike texture and the option to be worn in the front of your ear or the back. The tiny diamond stud in the middle adds some sparkle and it feels appropriate that this looks similar to an engagement ring. This one is pricey for the set, but it's something you'll wear forever.

Cluster Pendant Necklace

Photo: Olive & Piper

A mix of clear crystals with a touch of sparkle from the gemstones, this pendant necklace is simple and versatile. It's a more affordable option and is available in either gold or silver. This would make a really special gift to all of your bridesmaids so they can wear matching necklaces on the wedding day.

Brown Faux Fur Stole

Photo: Lulus

Weddings that take place on chilly nights in the fall or winter call for some sort of layer to keep warm, especially if taking photos outside. You obviously can't wear a cardigan over a formal gown, but this faux fur stole is a great option. It looks glamorous, adds some extra warmth and can easily be draped over your shoulders or arms as needed.

Pave Initial Necklace

Photo: Birdy Grey

Brides who don't want to spend a lot but also want to get their bridesmaids something more personalized to wear on the wedding day should look into this initial necklace. It's budget-friendly and features a little sparkling initial letter, so they feel customized and special. Kostis loves initial necklaces as a unique option and it's a fun idea, especially for a more casual wedding.

Satin Bridesmaid Purse

Photo: Six Stories

Every bridesmaid should have a small formal bag they can keep by their side all night—it looks nice and it's a good place to stow your phone and some makeup. These satin pouches are made from extra cuts of bridesmaid dresses the brand sells, so they may be an exact match to many bridesmaid dress colors. They're available in several shades, have a cute bow detail and offer plenty of space without looking bulky.

Cuff Metal Hair Tie

Photo: The Hair Edit

The right hair accessory can make your hairstyle look more elevated and sophisticated. This gold metal cuff is such a pretty way to make your ponytail stand out and look more formal. It has a curved shape and a more modern feel and is a great choice if you're also wearing gold jewelry. And at less than $20, it's an affordable option that still looks beautiful.

Bridesmaids Pink Stone Set

Photo: Nadri

Matching your earrings to your necklace can immediately offer a more cohesive look and just makes accessorizing easier. This bridesmaid jewelry set gives you one less thing to think about since both matching pairs come together. The pink gemstone is feminine and pretty, while both pieces are subtle and classic.

Leaf Linear Earrings

Photo: Anthropologie

Kostis suggests a pair of dangle statement earrings with a dress that features a higher neckline instead of a necklace. These floral-inspired earrings feature cute leaf shapes and are made of sparkling cubic zirconia and bronze. They're great for a spring or summer wedding, especially one that takes place outside.

Beaded Clutch

Photo: Lele Sadoughi

Feminine and so pretty, this small evening clutch is one you can wear as a bridesmaid and to many other formal events. It features multi-sized faux pearls and a hidden chain shoulder strap. The dark tahitian shade makes it perfect for a black-tie or formal wedding.

Gold Pearl Hair Clip

Photo: Lulus

This claw clip is anything but casual. It's adorned in faux pearls, with a brass finish and elegant curved shape. This is an easy way to jazz up a half-up-half-down hairstyle or it can make a loose twist look more dressed up. You can also get a lot of use out of this beyond the wedding.

Bridesmaid Shawl with Fringe

Photo: Birdy Grey

Bridesmaids can keep warm with a light and oversized shawl delicately draped around the arms or pulled around the shoulders if needed. This one comes in a variety of neutral colors and you can also personalize it with a name or initials to make it feel more special. It's soft and has fringe, so it can double as a scarf or a more casual shawl after the wedding.

Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet

Photo: Artizan Joyeria

It doesn't get much more classic and sophisticated than a glittering tennis bracelet. While the real deal costs a lot of money, this cubic zirconia option is a fraction of the price and will get the job done for one night (or more). It's sparkly and simple and adds a nice touch to any look.

Stacked Ring Set

Photo: Gorjana

Adding a few rings to your look is an easy way to add more bling without looking like you're overdoing it. Rings can also be a great option if a necklace or earrings don't work with your dress. This set of three adds some sparkle and can be worn together or separately.

Floral Drop Earrings

Photo: Olive & Piper

Kostis recommends drop earrings like these with a dress with a higher neckline that doesn't require a necklace, or if you're wearing your hair up and need something to show off in photos. These are pretty and subtle, with a floral design and see-through teardrop. They're glam but still versatile and not too bold.

Gold Diamante Gathered Clutch

Photo: Loeffler Randall

This small, flat clutch features a glam gold diamante mesh for some added sparkle. It can be held in your hand as a clutch but also comes with a twisted gold metal chain strap to put over your shoulder. There's a small pocket inside too. This is the kind of formal bag you can use at almost any special event.

Glossy Headband

Photo: Lelet

Add this super thin and delicate gold headband to your hairstyle for an incredibly stylish look. While small and subtle, this can really transform your hair and can be used whether it's down or up. Get it in gold or rhodium (match it with your jewelry if you want) and it's something you'll definitely wear again.

Long Baroque Pearl Drop Earrings

Photo: Birdy Grey

These pearl drop earrings are simple but still make a statement. They're delicate and subtle, so they would work best if you're wearing your hair up and back—otherwise, they might get a little lost. The pearl is great if you are trying to avoid something sparkly.

Pearl Bridesmaid Jewelry Set

Photo: Dareth Colburn

This jewelry set would make a perfect gift to bridesmaids. It comes with a matching necklace and earrings, each with a classic and beautiful design, as well as a thank you card to make it feel extra special. Each piece can be worn together or separately on another occasion and the price is affordable enough to purchase a bunch of them at once.

Bridesmaid Peony Purse

Photo: Show Me Your Mumu

If you want to have fun with some part of your look, make it a bridesmaid accessory like a purse. You won't have it in photos and it won't be with you all night, so it's a good piece to use to show off your personality. This peony-shaped purse is fun without being too casual or loud, and it's so cute with its top handle and champagne color.

Hair Bobbi Set

Photo: Lelet

Sometimes a pair of decorative bobby pins is all you need to take your hair from nice to wow. These vintage-inspired pins feature 14-karat antique gold-plated flowers on a matching pin and look beautiful whether you wear one or both.