Wedding Accessories Checklist: Veils, Jewelry, Shoes, and the Finishing Touches

If you’ve ever tried on a wedding dress and felt like something was… missing, you’re not alone. Most brides don’t need a different dress—they need the right bridal accessories. In our experience photographing 500+ weddings around the DC metro area (and plenty up and down the East Coast), accessories are the difference between “pretty” and “polished.” They’re also the difference between you feeling like yourself and feeling like you’re wearing a costume.

This wedding accessories checklist is the one we wish every couple had on their planning spreadsheet. We’re going to talk veils (with a real wedding veil guide, not vague fluff), bridal jewelry that actually works with your neckline, shoes that won’t make you limp by cocktail hour, hair accessories that stay put, belts and sashes that don’t fight your dress, cover-ups for weather and ceremony spaces, “something old/new/borrowed/blue,” and what to put in your day-of clutch. We’ll also flag the mistakes we see over and over—because no one wants to spend $800 on accessories that end up in a drawer.

And yes, we’ll talk about photos, because accessories show up everywhere in your Getting Ready Photography Guide moments and detail shots from Bridal Photography.

The “Start Here” Framework: How We Build Bridal Accessories That Don’t Look Random

Before we get into the checklist, here’s the framework we use with couples who want accessories that feel cohesive.

Step 1: Let the dress lead (not Pinterest)

Your dress already has opinions: neckline, fabric, embellishment level, and overall “energy.” A satin minimalist gown wants different bridal accessories than a lace-and-beading ballgown.

If your dress is:

• Heavy on texture/embellishment (lace, beading, appliqué): you’ll usually look best with simpler jewelry and a veil that doesn’t compete.
• Clean and modern (crepe, satin, mikado): you can push harder on statement jewelry, a dramatic veil edge, or a bold shoe.

Step 2: Pick your “hero” accessory

A lot of brides accidentally choose five statement pieces. The result? Visual noise.

Choose one hero (two max):

• A cathedral veil with lace
• Statement earrings
• A bold shoe
• A dramatic hairpiece

Then keep the rest quiet.

Hot take: If you’re wearing a detailed veil and a sparkly belt and a statement necklace and an embellished headpiece… your guests won’t know where to look. And neither will your photographer.

Step 3: Work backwards from comfort and logistics

Some accessories affect tailoring, posture, and timing:

• Shoes determine hem length.
• Bras/shape wear affect fit and comfort.
• Hair accessories affect hairstyle choice and timeline.

Those come first. The rest can wait.

Wedding Accessories Checklist Timeline (So You Don’t Buy Everything at Once)

Here’s a realistic timeline we’ve seen work—especially for DC-area weddings where you might be dealing with humidity, unpredictable spring weather, and venues with strict ceremony rules.

6–9 months out: The “tailoring-dependent” purchases

• Ceremony shoes (or at least same heel height)
• Undergarments (bra, shapewear, slips)
• Veil decision (especially if custom or matching lace)
• Hair accessory type (comb vs pins vs headband)

3–5 months out: The “style lock” phase

• Finalize veil/hairpiece
• Order jewelry (especially if custom)
• Decide on cover-up/wrap (season + venue)

4–8 weeks out: The finishing touches

• Break in shoes
• Add heel grips, blister prevention, backup flats
• Purchase day-of clutch and stock it
• Confirm “something old/new/borrowed/blue”
• Steam/press plan for veil and accessories

Week of: The sanity check

• Try everything on together (full look)
• Pack accessories in labeled bags
• Make a “detail box” for your photographer (more on that in Getting Ready Photography Guide)

Veil Styles and Lengths (A Real Wedding Veil Guide)

Veils are emotional. They’re also incredibly photogenic. And they can be wildly uncomfortable if you choose the wrong one.

The main veil lengths (and what they actually do in photos)

Veil styles: what to choose based on your dress and vibe

Raw cut tulle: Clean, modern, minimalist. Photographs airy and light.

Lace edge: Romantic and detailed. Just don’t pair it with a heavily embellished dress unless you want maximum texture.

Beaded edge: Adds sparkle, but can look busy under harsh lighting.

Mantilla (Spanish style): Lace framing the face and draping over the head—gorgeous for cathedral ceremonies and classic vibes.

Juliet cap: Vintage and sweet, but it’s a very specific look.

Single-tier vs two-tier veils

• Single-tier: cleaner, easier, less “stuff” around your shoulders.
• Two-tier: includes a blusher (the part that can cover your face).

Our honest take: Two-tier veils look incredibly traditional in ceremony photos, but a lot of modern brides end up flipping the blusher back immediately and feeling annoyed by it. If you love the symbolism, do it. If you’re on the fence, don’t force it.

What veils cost (real numbers)

• Budget / online: $30–$150
• Mid-range (quality tulle, nicer comb): $150–$400
• Designer or custom lace match: $400–$1,200+

Custom matching lace can be worth it—especially if your dress has a signature lace motif you want echoed. But don’t let a salon talk you into a $900 veil just because it’s “bridal.” Some of our favorite veils in photos were $180 on Etsy with great craftsmanship.

Veil + hairstyle compatibility (the part people forget)

• Low bun: Works with almost every veil.
• Hollywood waves: Gorgeous, but veil combs can slide—plan extra pins and texture spray.
• High bun/top knot: Veil placement matters (under vs over the bun changes the whole look).
• Half-up: Romantic, but can be tricky for heavy veils.

And if you’re doing a hair accessory and a veil, decide which one is the star.

Veil management on the wedding day

Cathedral veils are stunning… and they’re basically a second outfit you have to manage.

Plan for:

• Who fluffs it before you walk (coordinator, MOH, a sibling)
• When it comes off (after ceremony? after portraits?)
• Where it goes (garment bag, veil box, assigned person)

If you want those iconic veil shots, tell your photographer. We plan time for it the same way we plan time for sunset portraits. Check out Wedding Photography Poses for ideas that work especially well with veils.

Bridal Jewelry: Choosing Pieces That Match Your Neckline (Not Compete With It)

Bridal jewelry is where a lot of brides overspend—and still feel “meh.” The fix is simple: match jewelry to neckline and hairstyle first, then add sparkle.

Jewelry selection by neckline (the cheat sheet we use)

Earrings vs necklace: pick your focal point

If you’re wearing:

• Hair up: earrings show more → go bigger on earrings, smaller necklace.
• Hair down: earrings can disappear → consider a necklace or hair accessory.

Hot take: Most brides don’t need a necklace. If your dress has any neckline detail at all, a necklace can look like an afterthought. Great earrings and a bracelet often look more expensive and intentional.

Metals: match your dress tone (and your ring)

• Cool bright white (true white): silver/platinum tones pop.
• Warm ivory/champagne: yellow gold or rose gold can look rich.
• Mixed metal rings: you’ve got flexibility—just don’t mix everything.

Pearls vs crystals vs diamonds (the vibe check)

• Pearls: classic, editorial, slightly soft. Great for clean satin gowns.
• Crystals/rhinestones: sparkly and festive, but can look “prom” if overdone.
• Diamonds (or diamond look): timeless and sharp; reads luxe in photos.

What bridal jewelry costs (real ranges)

• Simple studs/pearls: $30–$120
• Mid-range statement earrings: $120–$350
• Fine jewelry pieces: $500–$3,000+
• Custom pieces (family stones): $800–$5,000+ depending on the work

If budget is tight, spend on the pieces that show up in photos the most: earrings and hair accessories. Bracelets are lovely, but they’re not as visible unless you’re doing lots of posed detail shots (which we can do—just tell your photographer team).

Shoe Comfort and Style (Because You’ve Got a 10–12 Hour Day)

Shoes aren’t just fashion. They’re posture, confidence, and whether you can enjoy your reception.

The real shoe plan we recommend (ceremony + backup)

Most brides end up happiest with:

1. A “photo and ceremony” shoe
2. A “reception and dancing” shoe

Not because you can’t handle heels. Because you shouldn’t have to.

Heel heights: what they feel like after 6 hours

• 1–2 inches: very manageable, great for outdoor venues.
• 2.5–3 inches: the most common “bridal heel” range.
• 3.5–4 inches: looks amazing, but you’ll feel it.
• Stilettos on grass/cobblestone: a comedy sketch waiting to happen.

If your venue is anywhere in DC with brick walkways, historic steps, or garden ceremony spaces, plan accordingly.

Shoes that photograph well (and still feel good)

• Block heels (yes, they can look chic)
• Platforms with ankle straps (more stable)
• Kitten heels for classic vibes
• Bridal sneakers for reception (some are genuinely cute now)

What shoes cost

• Budget: $40–$120
• Mid-range bridal: $120–$250
• Designer: $300–$1,200+

We’ve photographed $1,000 shoes that were worn for 20 minutes and $85 shoes that carried a bride through the entire day like a champ. Your call.

Breaking in shoes: a real timeline

• 4–6 weeks out: wear them inside for 30 minutes at a time.
• 2–3 weeks out: add blister patches if you’re prone.
• Week of: do a full “dress rehearsal” walk around your home.

Shoe comfort toolkit (small but mighty)

• Moleskin or blister patches
• Heel grips
• Gel inserts (especially for narrow-toe styles)
• Foldable flats
• Stain remover wipe (for unexpected scuffs)

Hair Accessories That Stay Put (And Don’t Stab You in the Head)

Hair accessories are one of those things that look simple… until you’re on hour eight of wearing them.

Common hair accessory options

• Hair combs (easy, secure)
• Hair pins (flexible, but can get lost)
• Headbands (comfortable if well-fitted)
• Tiaras (own it if you want it—no shame)
• Fresh flowers (pretty, but fragile)
• Hair vines (romantic, but can snag)

Choosing hair accessories based on hairstyle

• Low bun: combs and pins work best.
• High bun: headbands/tiaras or pins around the base look intentional.
• Half-up: vines and combs can add texture.
• Short hair: headbands, pins, or birdcage veils shine here.

What hair accessories cost

• Simple pins: $15–$60
• Mid-range combs/headbands: $60–$200
• Designer/custom: $200–$800+
• Fresh florals: $25–$150 depending on florist minimums

Veil + hair accessory: how to combine without chaos

Pick one placement:

• Veil under bun + accessory above
• Veil above bun + accessory at side
• No veil, statement headpiece

Trying to stack a comb, a tiara, and a veil comb in the same exact spot is how you get the “hair accessory Jenga” situation (we’ve seen it fall apart mid-ceremony—truly heartbreaking).

Belts and Sashes: The Fastest Way to Change the Whole Dress (For Better or Worse)

Belts and sashes can be magic. They can also look like an afterthought slapped on at the last second.

When belts work best

• Your dress is very simple and you want a focal point at the waist
• You want to define the waistline (especially on sheath gowns)
• You’re customizing a sample dress and want it to feel “yours”

When belts don’t work (our blunt opinion)

• Your dress already has heavy beading or lace at the waist
• The belt doesn’t match the dress tone (bright white belt on ivory dress = obvious)
• The belt twists or rides up when you sit

Also: cheap rhinestone belts can photograph too shiny under certain lighting. If you’re getting married in a ballroom with uplighting, that belt can reflect like a disco ball in close-ups.

Belt types

• Crystal/rhinestone (glam)
• Pearl (classic)
• Satin sash (soft, romantic)
• Floral appliqué belt (boho)
• Metallic belt (modern)

Alterations note: belts affect fit

If you’re adding a belt, bring it to fittings. The seamstress may stitch it in place or add small anchors so it doesn’t slide.

Typical cost:

• Belt/sash: $40–$300 (designer belts can be more)
• Sewing/anchoring in alterations: $25–$75 added, sometimes more

Cover-Ups and Wraps (Because Weather and Venues Have Opinions)

If you’re getting married anywhere near DC, you’ve got four seasons that can all happen in one weekend.

Types of cover-ups

• Faux fur stoles (winter glam)
• Cashmere wraps (classic, comfortable)
• Satin boleros (formal)
• Lace jackets (romantic, great for modesty)
• Capes/capelets (dramatic and photogenic)
• Denim/leather jackets (reception-only, fun)

Matching cover-ups to season (real-world DC area notes)

• Spring (March–May): it can be 45°F and rainy or 80°F and sunny. A wrap is smart.
• Summer (June–August): focus on breathable fabrics; you might want a light shawl for indoor AC.
• Fall (September–November): the easiest season for layering—wraps and capes look amazing.
• Winter (December–February): plan warmth that still photographs well (and won’t shed on your dress).

Venue and ceremony requirements

Some religious venues ask for shoulder coverage. A lace topper or cape can look intentional and gorgeous—way better than a random cardigan someone panic-buys the day before.

What cover-ups cost

• Budget wraps/shawls: $30–$90
• Mid-range wraps/boleros: $90–$250
• Faux fur or designer capes: $250–$800+

Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue (Without Making It Cheesy)

We love tradition. We just don’t love forcing it.

Simple, meaningful ideas that don’t feel like a scavenger hunt

Something old

• A piece of heirloom jewelry (grandmother’s brooch pinned inside the dress)
• A lace snippet sewn into the gown
• A handkerchief from a parent

Something new

• Your dress (the obvious one)
• Your veil or shoes
• A perfume you’ll only wear on anniversaries

Something borrowed

• A friend’s veil (if it works with your hairstyle)
• A sibling’s bracelet
• A hair comb from someone you trust (and who won’t panic if you forget to return it that night)

Something blue

• Blue stitching inside the dress (easy, hidden)
• Blue gemstones in earrings
• Blue nail polish on toes (fun and secret)
• A blue ribbon wrapped around bouquet stems

Our take: Hidden “something blue” is the best. It’s for you, not for commentary.

Timeline and logistics

Figure this out 1–2 months out so you’re not texting your friend the night before asking to borrow earrings.

And if you’re borrowing anything valuable, assign one person to be responsible for returning it. We’ve seen borrowed jewelry disappear into the chaos of the after-party more times than we’d like.

Day-Of Clutch Essentials (What You’ll Actually Need, Not What Blogs Suggest)

Most brides don’t carry a clutch all day. But having one nearby—especially during cocktail hour and reception—can save you.

The clutch itself: size and style

Go small but functional. You need space for:

• Phone
• Lip color
• Blotting papers
• Tissues
• A few emergency items

Clutch cost ranges:

• Budget: $20–$60
• Mid-range: $60–$200
• Designer: $250–$1,000+

Day-of clutch essentials checklist (the realistic version)

• Lipstick or gloss (the one you’ll reapply)
• Blotting papers or pressed powder
• Mini deodorant or deodorant wipes
• Breath mints (not gum—gum shows up in photos)
• Bobby pins + small hair elastic
• Band-aids (2–4 is plenty)
• Mini stain remover pen
• Tissues (for happy crying)
• Safety pin (one)
• Phone + ID + one credit card
• Pain reliever (2 doses)
• Travel-size fragrance (optional)

If you wear contacts:

• Contact drops
• Spare case

If you’re prone to wardrobe slips:

• Fashion tape (a few strips)

Where the clutch should live

• Getting ready room until ceremony
• Handed to coordinator or MOH
• Then placed at your sweetheart table or with your bag near the DJ booth

Don’t leave it on a random chair. It will walk away (not always maliciously—weddings are chaos).

The Full Wedding Accessories Checklist (Printable-Style)

Here’s the master list we’d use if we were packing your accessories the week of your wedding.

Bridal accessories: wearables

• Veil (plus extra bobby pins)
• Hair accessory (comb/pins/headband/tiara)
• Earrings
• Necklace (if wearing)
• Bracelet
• Rings (engagement ring for photos, wedding band for ceremony)
• Dress belt/sash (if using)
• Cover-up/wrap/jacket
• Gloves (if part of your look)
• Undergarments (bra, shapewear, slips)
• Ceremony shoes
• Reception shoes (backup)
• Hosiery/socks (if needed)

Bridal accessories: day-of essentials

• Clutch + essentials (list above)
• Blister care (moleskin, patches)
• Fashion tape
• Safety pins
• Mini sewing kit (optional)
• Touch-up makeup (lip + powder)
• Fragrance
• Phone charger or power bank

Bridal accessories: photo-friendly details

• Invitation suite (ask your stationer for extras)
• Vow books
• Perfume bottle (pretty one)
• Jewelry boxes (if you have them)
• Ring box (optional but nice)

For more on what to set aside for photos, our Getting Ready Photography Guide walks through detail shots step-by-step.

Red Flags (What NOT to Do With Bridal Accessories)

We’re going to be the bad guys for a minute. These are the mistakes that cause real stress on wedding days.

1) Buying shoes after alterations start

This is how you end up with the hem dragging—or awkwardly short. Not fun.

2) Choosing jewelry before you know the final neckline fit

Necklines shift during alterations. A V can become deeper. Straps can move. Wait until the dress fit is close to final.

3) Wearing brand-new shoes all day

If you want to suffer, go for it. If you want to enjoy your wedding, break them in and have a backup pair.

4) Combining too many statement pieces

Veil + headpiece + statement necklace + bold earrings + belt + glitter shoes = chaos. Pick a hero.

5) Forgetting the venue rules and weather

Outdoor ceremony? Grass? Wind? Cold? A veil and stilettos might not be the power move you think it is.

6) Not testing hair accessories with your actual hair

A comb that holds in a trial might slide on wedding day if your hair is freshly washed or styled differently.

7) Leaving accessories scattered in five bags

Pack a labeled accessories kit. Your future self will thank you.

Making Accessories Look Incredible in Photos (Without Turning Your Morning Into a Photoshoot)

We care about your photos (obviously), but we also care about you enjoying your day.

The “detail box” trick

Put your accessories and paper goods in one box the night before:

• Rings
• Earrings, necklace
• Veil/hairpiece
• Perfume
• Invitation suite
• Vow books

Hand it to your photography team when they arrive. This is a huge help for Bridal Photography and keeps your getting-ready room from looking like a tornado hit Sephora.

Timing: what we actually need

Detail photos take about 20–35 minutes depending on complexity. If you want them, build it into the timeline. If you don’t care, tell us—and we’ll keep it quick.

Poses that show accessories naturally

Accessories look best when they’re part of movement:

• Putting on earrings
• Adjusting veil
• Walking with dress slightly lifted
• Holding bouquet with bracelet visible

We’ve got a bunch of pose ideas in Wedding Photography Poses that work for real humans (not models).

Budgeting for Bridal Accessories (So You Don’t Accidentally Spend $2,000)

Bridal accessories creep up fast. Here’s a realistic budgeting snapshot we see a lot.

Typical accessory spend ranges (DC metro + East Coast averages)

• Veil: $150–$600
• Jewelry set: $120–$600 (more if fine jewelry)
• Shoes (2 pairs): $150–$450
• Hair accessories: $50–$250
• Wrap/cover-up: $60–$250
• Clutch: $40–$200

A common total range: $570–$2,350.

That’s not meant to scare you. It’s meant to help you plan.

Where to splurge vs save (our opinion)

Splurge if:

• It affects comfort (good shoes)
• It shows up constantly (earrings, veil if you love it)

Save if:

• It’s a one-hour item (clutch you won’t use again)
• It’s trendy and you might not love it later

Accessories by Wedding Style (Quick Pairing Ideas)

Classic ballroom

• Cathedral or chapel veil
• Pearl or diamond-look studs/drops
• Satin heels
• Optional wrap for ceremony space

Modern minimalist

• Raw edge fingertip veil or no veil
• Statement earrings
• Clean strappy heels or sleek block heels
• Minimal belt (or none)

Garden/outdoor

• Fingertip veil or floral hairpiece
• Comfortable block heels or wedges (or heel protectors)
• Light wrap for evening

Winter wedding

• Faux fur or cape
• Statement earrings
• Closed-toe heels or elegant boots
• Consider a veil that won’t snag on textured outerwear

Frequently Asked Questions

What accessories do I need for my wedding day as a bride?

Most brides need a veil or hair accessory, earrings (and maybe a necklace), comfortable ceremony shoes plus a backup pair, and a small day-of clutch kit for touch-ups. If your ceremony space is chilly or requires coverage, add a wrap or topper. Buy shoes and undergarments early because they affect alterations.

How do I choose bridal jewelry for my neckline?

Match the jewelry shape to the neckline: V-necks look great with lariat/Y necklaces, strapless gowns can handle chokers or pendants, and high necklines usually look best with no necklace and stronger earrings. In our experience, earrings show up in photos more consistently than necklaces, especially if you’ll wear your hair up.

What veil length is best for photos?

Fingertip veils are the most versatile and photograph beautifully without overwhelming your dress. Cathedral veils create the most dramatic images, especially in wide shots, but they require more handling and planning. If you want statement veil photos, tell your photographer so time is set aside.

When should I buy my wedding shoes and veil?

Buy shoes before your first major alteration appointment (usually 6–9 months out) so your hem is tailored correctly. Veils can be purchased 3–6 months out, earlier if you want custom lace or a specific designer. Hair accessories should be chosen once you’ve locked your hairstyle direction.

Should I wear a necklace with a wedding dress?

Not always. If your dress has lace, beading, or a high neckline, skipping the necklace often looks cleaner and more expensive in photos. If you love necklaces or your neckline is strapless/scoop/simple V, a delicate piece can be perfect—just keep it intentional.

What should I keep in my wedding day clutch?

Carry lip color, blotting papers or powder, tissues, mints, bobby pins, a couple band-aids, a stain remover pen, a safety pin, and your phone/ID/card. Keep it minimal so you’re not digging through a mini pharmacy during cocktail hour. A small pouch inside the clutch makes it easy to hand off at the end of the night.

How do I keep my hair accessories and veil from slipping?

Do a trial with the actual accessory and ask your stylist to pin it like it’s the real day (including a “shake test”). Veil combs often need extra pins and texture in the hair to grip. If you’re wearing hair down, expect more pinning than you think.

Final Thoughts: Your Accessories Should Feel Like You (Not a Costume)

The best bridal accessories don’t just “match.” They make you feel confident, comfortable, and fully yourself—while still looking incredible in photos. Keep your wedding accessories checklist focused on what affects fit and comfort first (shoes, undergarments, veil/hair plan), then layer in personality (jewelry, something blue, a fun reception shoe) once the foundation is solid.

If you want your accessories to photograph beautifully, plan a little space in the morning for detail shots and getting-ready moments—our team covers that in the Getting Ready Photography Guide and we build timelines around it all the time.

And if you’re still deciding what matters most for your wedding-day look (and your photos), we’d love to help. Precious Pics Pro has been photographing and filming weddings for 15+ years across the Washington DC metro area and beyond, and we’ve seen exactly what works in real lighting, real weather, and real timelines. Reach out to Precious Pics Pro when you’re ready—and check out Bridal Photography for more ways to make your wedding images feel intentional and timeless.

Other internal link opportunities we’d suggest adding to your wiki next:

• Wedding Hair And Makeup Timeline
• Wedding Dress Alterations Timeline
• Wedding Day Emergency Kit
• Wedding Detail Photos Checklist
• Outdoor Wedding Tips Dc