Everything You Need to Know About Buying Bridesmaid Jewelry

Adding the finishing touches to bridesmaid outfits can be tricky. If you're the bride, you want to stay true to your vision while also making sure your crew is happy. Similarly, if you're a member of the wedding party charged with picking out your own bridesmaid jewelry, you've got the added pressure of pleasing your soonlywed bestie. But don't worry, we're here to make shopping for day-of accessories that much easier. We've answered all the biggest FAQs below, including what type of jewelry to choose, where to buy it, and who should pay. We've also included some expert tips from award-winning celebrity and bridal fashion stylist Micaela Erlanger to help you out even more.

What jewelry should bridesmaids wear?

Ultimately, it's up to the bride to decide exactly which accessories the bridal party should wear. Jewelry can be a nice finishing touch to bridesmaid outfits, but it's important to keep in mind that it's not a necessity. Your crew certainly doesn't have to wear jewelry, whether that's because it doesn't match your vision or they'd just prefer not to. However, if you do want your bridesmaids to add some shiny accessories to their ensembles, there's a lot to think about. 

Do you want them all to wear the same jewelry, or can they mix and match? Can they wear something they already own or are there specific accessories you've got your eye on? Before diving into these important questions, you'll need to decide which types of jewelry you want your squad to wear. To help you get started, we've listed the pros and cons of each right here.

• Bridesmaid earrings: Earrings will go with pretty much everything. Ultimately, it comes down to choosing the right style for each person's hairdo. According to Erlanger, a small and simple pair of studs will perfectly complement an updo. For those wearing their hair down, the stylist recommends something larger with a little bit of movement, such as drop earrings. One thing to keep in mind: Not everyone is used to wearing earrings. Make sure your bridesmaids are comfortable with the idea before adding anything to your shopping list. You might need to look into some clip-on options for anyone who doesn't have their ears pierced.
• Bridesmaid necklaces: We're big fans of finishing off a look with a stylish necklace, but it's not always easy. "A necklace might get lost or it might not show as well," warns Erlanger. She suggests starting with earrings or bracelets when it comes to picking out your bridesmaid jewelry. That said, if you're set on having necklaces for your bridal party, that's totally fine too. We recommend going with a longer chain for high necklines or a simple pendant for lower necklines such as sweethearts and V-necks. For more statement necklines (think: ruffled), it might be best to skip the necklace altogether and focus on other accessories.
• Bridesmaid bracelets: Bracelets are a symbol of friendship, making them a lovely way for your bridal party to feel connected on the big day. They'll be a sweet and subtle addition to your bridesmaid outfits that won't draw too much attention from the dresses you spent hours picking out. With that in mind, if your bridesmaids are wearing long sleeves, bracelets might go unnoticed by some guests.

Does the bride wear the same jewelry as the bridesmaids?

Traditionally, the bride wears different jewelry from the bridesmaids. "You don't want to appear too uniform…it's nice to have a little variety," says Erlanger. Plus, it's easier to pick out accessories that go with the wedding dress, jumpsuit, or whatever if you're not worried about matching with your crew. Bridesmaid jewelry is usually less bridal and instead matches the wedding party's attire, for example, emerald earrings worn with dark green dresses.

Another thing to consider is having separate maid of honor jewelry, especially if the MOH is wearing something different from the other bridesmaids. At the end of the day, it's about picking what looks best with each attendant's outfit. That means that everyone in your wedding party can accessorize differently if that's the look you're going for. Allowing bridesmaids to wear their preferred pieces is a nice gesture that'll let each person show some of their unique personality.

Who pays for bridesmaid jewelry?

Not sure who pays for what? Generally, bridesmaids buy their own wedding attire, jewelry included. That said, it's important to keep your crew's other expenses in mind when you're picking out accessories. If there's something you really want them to wear and it's on the pricey side, we suggest giving it as a bridesmaid proposal or thank-you gift.

In Erlanger's opinion, if you're asking your bridesmaids to buy a specific item of jewelry (or you're giving it to them as a gift), you should consider choosing something they can enjoy time and time again. Whether it's earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, whatever you choose should appeal to your squad's tastes too. The stylist recommends handing over a beautiful little pendant as a sentimental bridesmaid gift.

How to Choose Bridesmaid Jewelry

Selecting the right bridesmaid jewelry for each outfit can be tricky, especially if everyone has a slightly different look. "Thinking about cohesion and curation is really important, and the easiest way to do that is to start with your color palette," says Erlanger. When deciding on a type of metal (yellow, white, or rose gold), you want it to complement the color of your bridesmaid dresses.

According to Erlanger, the best way to do this is to match cool tones with cool tones and warm tones with warm tones. The wedding stylist suggests pairing a pale pink outfit with rose or yellow gold jewelry. On the flipside, she shares that green and blue hues work well with white gold jewelry. "Of course there are some exceptions to that rule, but it's a really nice starting point."

Another thing to keep in mind with bridesmaid jewelry is subtlety. "At the end of the day, you never want jewelry to distract," says Erlanger. "You want jewelry to feel thoughtful, personal, and intentional." The bridal stylist warns against choosing anything too bold that could compete with the bridesmaids' hair, dresses, or worse: the happy couple.

That said, the bridal party should wear something a little more elevated than their usual accessories. "Your day-to-day jewelry is likely too casual for such a special event," says Erlanger. "This is the opportunity to wear some beautiful jewelry but keep it understated, elegant, and timeless."

Where to Buy Bridesmaid Jewelry

Whether you're ready to start shopping or just want some inspiration, we know exactly where to find the best bridesmaid jewelry online. Check out our favorite retailers for every style and budget below. 

• BaubleBar: BaubleBar has a variety of gorgeous accessories available. Shop the site's fashion jewelry to give your bridesmaids' outfits a trendy finishing touch, or check out the fine jewelry for some more dainty and elegant options.
• Nordstrom: We know that picking out the right jewelry for your bridesmaid dresses can be challenging. Nordstrom carries a wide selection of designers, meaning you can browse lots of different styles at a range of price points before making a decision.
• David's Bridal: If you're on the hunt for affordable bridesmaid jewelry (that doesn't look cheap), David's Bridal is your best bet. You'll find a selection of necklaces, earrings, and jewelry sets for even the most glamorous gowns.

Bridesmaid Jewelry We're Loving Right Now

Want some more inspiration on your search for the perfect bridal party accessories? We've listed some of our favorite bridesmaid jewelry ideas right here. 

1. Romantic heart pendant

Asking your bridesmaids to wear matching heart necklaces is a lovely way to honor the thing that's bringing you all together: love. This chic pendant has a delicate gold chain and subtle sparkle thanks to the pavé heart. 

BaubleBar Freya necklace, $58, BaubleBar

2. Sparkly statement earrings

These gorgeous crystal earrings will let your bridesmaids shine without breaking the bank. The geometric design feels both modern and sophisticated, making them the perfect statement pair for a formal event.

Panacea crystal hexagon earrings, $28, Nordstrom

3. Ornate jewelry set

Looking for something elaborate? This necklace and earring set combines pretty florals with stunning crystals—it's a match made in heaven. They'll look great with a formal bridesmaid gown that has a straight or sweetheart neckline. 

Bliss Designs crystal and pearl floral necklace and earring set, $50, David's Bridal

4. Classic crystal bracelet

Anthropologie isn't just a great place to pick up your bridesmaid dresses—there's a gorgeous selection of jewelry too. This romantic bracelet features round and baguette crystals on a gold-plated chain. 

Serefina Pisces bracelet, $28, Anthropologie

5. Dainty double huggies

This opalite and gold bridesmaid jewelry is equal parts simple and elegant, meaning it'll go with pretty much anything. The double-huggie design adds a unique twist.

Gorjana opalite solitaire double huggies, $45, Gorjana

6. Stunning gemstone necklace

There are so many directions you could take with these beautiful teardrop pendants. Pick the color that best matches your bridesmaid dresses or choose different necklaces based on each person's birthstone. You can also opt for a silver or gold chain to suit their other accessories.

Esther Rose Collection teardrop necklace dainty bridesmaid jewelry, from $14, Etsy

7. Colorful confetti studs

Don't be afraid to add a splash of color to your crew's accessories. These glittery earrings won't draw too much attention at the altar, but once the party lights go on, they're sure to sparkle. 

Kate Spade New York small square studs, $38, Kate Spade 

8. Subtle tennis bracelet

Who doesn't love a pretty tennis bracelet? This gold and crystal jewelry will add a subtle shine to your bridesmaids' wrists and they'll easily be able to wear it again.

Ten Wilde Jewelry tennis bracelet, $50, Ten Wilde

9. Pretty layered necklace

A V-shaped necklace is the perfect accessory for—yep, you guessed it—outfits with a V-neckline. This double-layered accessory offers twice the charm without feeling over the top. Choose a silver or gold finish depending on your squad's style.

Lulus Incantation rhinestone layered necklace, $14, Lulus

10. Pavé infinity earrings

We love a rose gold moment, and rose gold bridesmaid jewelry is no different. These stunning infinity earrings are just as affordable as they are meaningful. 

David's Bridal infinity loop pavé rhinestone earrings, $15, David's Bridal

11. Minimalist crystal bracelet

If the dresses are already quite glamorous (think: sequins, ruffles, or any other embellishments), simple bridesmaid jewelry might be the way to go. These pretty vine-inspired bracelets are available with a silver, yellow gold, or rose gold finish.

Tom Design dainty bracelet bridesmaid gift, $18, Etsy

12. Vintage pearl pendant

This sterling silver bridesmaid jewelry is utterly timeless. The shiny freshwater pearl in a topaz halo setting will fit right in at a classic wedding.

Blue Nile vintage-inspired freshwater cultured pearl and white topaz halo pendant, $130, Blue Nile

13. Bold beaded bracelet

If you don't want your bridal party's jewelry to go unnoticed, these bold matching bracelets are an excellent choice. The personalized pavé initial makes them super giftable. 

BaubleBar pavé Pisa bracelet, $28, BaubleBar