Bling that goes beyond the ring

Earrings, necklaces and embellished gowns are helping brides put shiny finishing touches on their wedding look

By Nola Sarkisian-Miller
CTW Features

Pearls are a go-to fashion accessory for First Lady Michelle Obama, who's a fan of the double-strand choker. The gem also is a mainstay for brides who have embraced restraint in the past when to comes to accessories.

But, retailers and designers say they're seeing more brides take a shine to statement jewelry, embracing bold earrings or a dramatic necklace. Designer Vera Wang took a step in that direction for her fall 2009 collection when models walked the runways showcasing some distinctive jewelry. Wang paired a strapless mermaid gown with a gold leaf necklace and a crepe mermaid sheath with a chunky, dangling necklace made of crystal rosettes.

William Barthman Jewelry in New York is selling David Yurman's five-row confetti ice bracelet, crafted with cabled sterling silver and faceted diamonds. Cuffs also are popular choices for fans of New York-based jewelry designer Alex Woo, who has fashioned a bridal following for her Narissa collection of wavy gold pave earrings studded with diamonds and ethereal cuffs.

"[Brides are] being more bold with their choices," Woo says. "I think that personalization is a trend that will stay."

Unconventional jewelry choices are just the next step for brides, say industry experts, who note how brides asserted their individuality when they first incorporated color in their bridalwear, including waist sashes and contrast insets on gowns, about five years ago. Woo says the fashion decisions are a nod to celebrity influences, such as Gwen Stefani's pink ombre wedding dress designed by John Galliano for Dior.

The key they say is for brides to strike a balance between looking chic and over-the-top. Simple dresses practically beg for adornment, says Marianne Shearer, owner of The Dresser, a bridal boutique in Fullerton, Calif. Jewelry can actually close the sale, she says.

"We'll have a bride come in and she'll love a plain dress," Shearer says. "She'll look like a million bucks, but it wasn't the dress she expected. We immediately pull earrings, necklaces and show her how she can complete the look."

Common sense suggests that a large pair of statement earrings can rock a strapless sheath. Gowns that drip in rhinestones, however, need little in the way of accompaniment because jewelry shouldn't compete with the dress, Woo says. The goal is for guests to notice the bride first, then her attire.

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