Accessories Trend Report

"Accessories are all about the important details which enhance the total picture."

The perfect wedding day accessories enhance the overall look of the bride and her wedding party, and subtle accents will the complete the picture. The ideal accessories are all about modern nostalgia that embraces tradition. For example, think of timeless, dainty pearls that will look completely of-the-moment on the wedding day and equally modern fifty years from now, when the bride is reflecting on wedding photos. The time of the ceremony, the formality, and the bride's personal taste will set the tone for her accessory story.

Pearls of wisdom -- From dainty solid strands to equally light illusion styles, anything with pearls stands the test of time and always looks fresh, feminine, and elegant worn with both a white or ivory gown. In keeping with the simplicity of this season's newest understated and bare gowns, the scale of the pearl is smaller and more delicate. A bride's personal style will dictate whether she will mirror the simplicity of the gown and wear a single strand, or opt for a play of multiple strands. (Even with multiple strands, it's all about the smaller-scaled pearl.) For added sparkle, look for strands with interspersed crystals in tints of periwinkle, pink or soft blues.

Shawl for All -- The bridal shawl has become the must-have accessory this season. The bride can wear to and from the reception in a fabric that coordinates with her gown. Shawls will be decorated with embroidery or subtle bead or pearl treatments. Maids will also look fresh wearing shoulder wraps, in sheer and iridescent fabrics.

Jewels are in the Hair -- Hair jewelry is more important than ever. Bridesmaids can wear fresh interpretations of hair bands with multi-faceted beads and sequins, in colors that coordinate with their dresses. The newest takes on headbands are head wraps that are styled similar to illusion necklaces and give the impression of sparkling beads interspersed in the hair. Think of silver or gold wire decorated with crystals, beads and pearls, which wraps around the hair, and is secured by an elastic band hidden under the hair, close to the neck.

Embellished barrettes have been replaced by silk floral and crystal decorated bobbie pins, which are ideal for bridesmaids, and to hold the bride's hair in place if she takes off her veil for the reception.

Gloving It! -- There is something inherently glamorous about opera, (mid forearm) or elbow length gloves. They are the perfect year-round complement to bare styling for the bride and her maids. Brides will opt for white or ivory and bridesmaids will wear gloves in a color that coordinates with their dress.



What's the Bag? -- The message with bags for bridesmaids are small structured shapes in colors that coordinate with their dresses. Bags with floral detailed trim and structured handles look newest.

Shoe Business -- Shoes for the bride are strappy, with chunky heels. Brides will opt for white or ivory to match their gown, while bridesmaids will have dyed-to-coordinate or silver and black heels.

David's Bridal offers thousands of the latest designer bridal gowns and bridal party dresses in sizes 2-26, complete with head-to-toe accessories. Over 100 store locations. Visit www.davidsbridal.com or call 1-800-399-BRIDE to find the store nearest you.