If you're lucky enough to have family heirloom jewelry to wear on your wedding day, it can add an extra special touch to your bridal look. However, it's important to handle these precious pieces with care and consideration. Here are some dos and don'ts when it comes to wearing family heirloom jewelry on your big day.
While your family's jewelry may be steeped in tradition, there's no reason you can't put your own spin on it. Consider adding a personal element to the pieces. For example, you could have an old family brooch turned into a beautiful hair accessory or bracelet. This will not only make the jewelry feel uniquely yours, but it will also make it more special and sentimental.
While it may be tempting to wear every family heirloom you've ever received, it's important to exercise restraint and only wear a few key pieces. Too much jewelry can overpower your look and detract from the beauty of your dress. Instead, choose one or two standout pieces to wear and keep the rest in your jewelry box.
When choosing which pieces to wear, it's important to consider the style of your dress. If your dress is vintage-inspired, for instance, it may be fitting to wear vintage jewelry. On the other hand, if your dress is modern and sleek, you may want to opt for more contemporary pieces.
While it's okay to mix and match different styles of jewelry for a unique look, it's important to make sure they don't clash with your dress. Avoid wearing, say, retro earrings with a bohemian-inspired gown. Instead, stick to pieces that complement your dress and overall aesthetic.
That being said, don't be afraid to experiment with mixing and matching different styles of jewelry. You could wear a vintage necklace with modern earrings, for example, or mix metals for a unique look.
When wearing family heirloom jewelry, it's important to consider how it will coordinate with other accessories. For instance, if you're wearing a veil, choose earrings that won't get tangled up in it. And don't forget to choose shoes and a clutch that complement your jewelry and dress, too.
Family heirloom jewelry is often delicate and may need special care. Make sure to clean and maintain the pieces before the big day. You may also want to have the pieces insured or have a professional jeweler give them a once-over to ensure they're in good condition.
It's important to respect the integrity of the original design of family heirloom jewelry. Avoid having pieces altered or modified for your wedding day, as this could permanently damage the jewelry and may even devalue it.
If the heirloom jewelry doesn't quite fit your vision or style, consider getting creative with repurposing it. You could have a ring turned into a pendant or have a brooch transformed into a hair comb. The possibilities are endless!
Lastly, remember that you don't have to wear family heirloom jewelry if it doesn't feel right for you. Give yourself permission to choose a different piece or even purchase new jewelry that reflects your style and vision for your big day. After all, your wedding should feel like you.
Do: Make it Personal
When it comes to wearing family heirloom wedding jewelry, it can be tempting to stick to tradition and wear the pieces as they are. However, adding a personal touch can make the jewelry feel more special and unique to you as the bride. One way to do this is by incorporating your own personal style or taste into the jewelry.
For example, if you love bold statement pieces, consider pairing a chunky necklace with a simple dress to make the jewelry stand out. Or, if you prefer more delicate jewelry, layering dainty necklaces or bracelets can create a subtle yet personalized look. Another option is to have the jewelry customized or altered, such as adding a personal engraving or incorporating different gemstones.
It's important to remember that while incorporating your own style into family heirloom jewelry can make it more special, it's also essential to respect the original piece and its history. Avoid making any drastic alterations or changes that could compromise the integrity of the design. Instead, focus on small changes or additions that enhance the piece without taking away from its original beauty.
Ultimately, adding your own personal touch to family heirloom jewelry can make it even more special and sentimental. It allows you to honor the tradition while also making it your own.
Don't: Overdo It
When it comes to wearing family heirloom jewelry on your wedding day, it's important to find the right balance. You don't want to overpower your look with too many pieces, but you also want to honor the significance of each piece by wearing them. Here are some tips on how to wear multiple pieces without going overboard.
First, start by selecting a statement piece. This could be a necklace, bracelet, or even earrings. This piece should be the focal point of your jewelry and the centerpiece of your look. From there, you can add complementary pieces that enhance the statement piece without competing with it.
It's also important to consider the size and style of the rest of your jewelry. If you have a statement necklace, choose smaller earrings and a delicate bracelet. If your statement piece is a bracelet, opt for simple stud earrings and a subtle necklace.
Another way to balance multiple pieces is to mix and match. Try pairing a vintage necklace with modern earrings or a classic bracelet with a contemporary ring. This creates a unique look that blends different eras and styles.
And finally, don't feel obligated to wear every single piece of family heirloom jewelry. If you have too many pieces or they simply don't fit your style or vision for your wedding day, it's okay to choose just one or two pieces that best represent your family and your personal style.
Remember, when it comes to wearing family heirloom jewelry on your wedding day, less is often more. By carefully selecting and balancing your pieces, you can create a stunning and meaningful look that honors your family history while staying true to your own personal style.
Do: Consider the Style of Your Dress
Choosing the right jewelry to wear on your wedding day can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to incorporating family heirlooms. One important factor to consider is the style of your dress. To ensure that the jewelry complements your dress, it's essential to understand the style and design elements of your gown.
If your dress has intricate detailing, such as beading or lace, you may want to avoid jewelry with similar designs. Instead, opt for simple, elegant pieces that won't compete with the embellishments on your dress. A stunning pair of diamond stud earrings or a delicate pendant necklace can be perfect choices.
On the other hand, if your dress is minimalist or has a streamlined silhouette, you may want to add some drama with bolder statement pieces. Chunky necklaces or oversized earrings can add a touch of glamour to a simple dress without overwhelming the overall look.
It's also crucial to match the color of your jewelry to your dress. A white or ivory gown pairs well with silver or platinum jewelry, while gold or rose gold pieces are a great match for champagne or blush-colored dresses. If your dress has colored accents, consider incorporating jewelry that complements or contrasts with these hues.
Remember, when it comes to wearing family heirloom jewelry, you can always mix and match different pieces to create a unique look that reflects your personal style. With these tips in mind, you can confidently wear your family heirlooms on your big day while perfectly complementing your dress.
Don't: Wear Competing Styles
When wearing family heirloom jewelry on your wedding day, it's important to ensure that the pieces you choose don't compete with the style of your dress. This means avoiding pieces that clash in terms of color, texture, or overall design.
For example, if your dress has a lot of intricate beading and embroidery, you may want to opt for simpler, more understated jewelry that won't compete for attention. Alternatively, if your dress is relatively simple and understated, you might choose to wear a statement necklace or a pair of bold earrings to add some interest and visual excitement.
One way to avoid conflicting styles is to think carefully about the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve. If your wedding has a vintage, bohemian vibe, for example, you may want to choose jewelry that reflects that aesthetic—think delicate lace, antique gold or silver, and soft, feminine designs. On the other hand, if you're going for a more modern, minimalist look, you might opt for sleek, simple pieces that won't overwhelm your dress.
When choosing jewelry, think about the areas of your body that will be most visible and select pieces that complement those areas. A dramatic choker necklace, for example, might look stunning with a strapless gown, while a more delicate necklace might be better suited for a dress with a high neckline.
Ultimately, choosing family heirloom jewelry for your wedding is a wonderful way to honor the traditions of your family and add a unique, personal touch to your big day. By selecting pieces that complement your dress and reflect your personal style, you can create a look that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Do: Mix and Match
Mixing and matching different styles of family heirloom jewelry can create a unique and personalized look on your special day. The key is to balance multiple pieces without overwhelming your ensemble. A good way to start is by identifying the common elements of your jewelry pieces. These elements could be similar gemstones, metal finishes, or intricate designs.
Once you have identified the common elements, you can start pairing the pieces together. For example, a vintage necklace with delicate floral designs could be paired with a bracelet featuring the same designs. Alternatively, you could cluster together rings of different styles and sizes on one finger to create a distinctive look.
Another way to mix and match jewelry is to layer necklaces of varying lengths. This creates a trendy look while showcasing each piece individually. You could also pair earrings of different gold shades or shapes to create a unique set.
When mixing and matching jewelry, it is important to ensure that each piece is complementary and does not clash with your dress or other accessories. You could also consider the tone of your wedding. For an outdoor, bohemian-style wedding, mixing and matching eclectic pieces would work well. However, for a formal wedding, stick to classic, timeless pieces that add an elegant touch.
In conclusion, wearing a combination of family heirloom jewelry pieces can add a personalized touch to your wedding day look. Remember to identify the common elements, balance multiple pieces, and ensure that each piece complements your dress and accessories. Mixing and matching jewelry is all about having fun and creating a unique look that reflects your personal style.
Don't: Forget About Other Accessories
When it comes to wearing family heirloom jewelry on your wedding day, it's not just about the pieces themselves. Coordinating with your shoes, veil, and other accessories can tie everything together for a cohesive look.
First, consider the style of your dress. If you have a more traditional gown, opting for classic shoes and a simple veil can complement a vintage necklace or pair of earrings. For a more modern dress, choosing bold shoes or a statement veil can elevate the look and add some edge to your overall style.
Next, think about the colors in your jewelry. If you have pearls or diamonds, silver or white gold shoes would complement the piece nicely. Gold or rose gold accessories can work well with warmer tones like amber or topaz. You can also tie in the colors of your accessories and jewelry with your bridal bouquet or other wedding details.
Don't be afraid to mix and match styles either – if you have a vintage brooch, pairing it with trendy shoes and a statement veil can create a unique and chic look. However, be careful not to overdo it with too many competing accessories. Remember, your dress and jewelry should be the focal point.
Finally, make sure to take care of your heirloom jewelry and accessories. Clean any vintage pieces before the wedding day and avoid altering the original design. If a piece doesn't fit your style or vision for your wedding day, don't feel obligated to wear it. Instead, consider repurposing it into a new piece or incorporating it into your everyday jewelry collection. By coordinating your heirloom jewelry with the rest of your wedding day look, you can create a timeless and personalized bridal style.
Do: Take Care of the Jewelry
If you're lucky enough to wear your family's heirloom jewelry on your wedding day, it's important that you take good care of them to preserve their beauty and meaning. These priceless pieces are often vintage and require special care, so be sure to handle them with care. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining your vintage jewelry.
- Handle it with care: Vintage jewelry is delicate and requires gentle handling to avoid damaging it. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, heat, or extreme temperatures.
- Clean it regularly: Over time, vintage jewelry can get dirty, lose its shine, or develop tarnish. To keep your heirloom jewelry looking its best, clean it gently with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes that could scratch or damage the surface.
- Store it properly: Vintage jewelry should be stored in a safe, dry, and cool place, away from direct sunlight and other environmental factors that could damage it. Use a jewelry box or pouch to protect it from dust and scratches.
- Get it appraised: If you're unsure about the value or authenticity of your family's vintage jewelry, have it appraised by a professional jeweler. They can give you an estimate of the piece's worth and advise you on how to care for it.
By taking good care of your heirloom jewelry, you can ensure that they remain a treasured part of your family history for years to come. Don't forget to handle them with respect, appreciate their unique beauty, and make them a part of your special day.
Don't: Alter the Original Piece
When it comes to family heirloom wedding jewelry, it's important to respect the original design and not alter the piece. While it may be tempting to make modifications to better fit your personal style or match your dress, it's crucial to honor the integrity and history of the piece.
Changing the original design may result in irreversible damage and decrease the value of the jewelry. Additionally, altering an heirloom piece could potentially sever the sentimental connection between future generations and the historical significance of the jewelry.
If you're concerned about the style of the piece or its suitability for your wedding day, consider wearing it in a way that still showcases its original design. For example, you could opt for a simpler dress or hairstyle to better highlight the jewelry.
If you find that the piece doesn't fit your style or vision for your wedding day, it's important to have an open and honest conversation with your family members about your decision. They may be understanding and even have alternative pieces to offer that better fit your tastes.
Overall, it's essential to appreciate the history and value of heirloom jewelry and work to preserve its original design for future generations to cherish.
Do: Get Creative with Repurposing
Repurposing family heirloom jewelry is a fantastic way to include sentimental pieces in your wedding while still putting your own spin on them. Instead of sticking to tradition, why not get creative with it? Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Mix and Match: If you have different pieces of jewelry that don't necessarily complement each other, try mixing and matching them to create a unique look. For example, you could combine a vintage necklace with modern earrings and bracelets for a contemporary twist.
2. Create a New Piece: If you have several pieces of jewelry that you don't necessarily want to wear separately, consider having them combined to create a new piece. A skilled jeweler can create a custom piece that incorporates your favorite elements from each item.
3. Upcycle: If you have an old brooch or pendant that is no longer wearable, consider upcycling it into something new. For example, you could turn it into a hair accessory, belt buckle, or even a bouquet charm.
4. Personalize: If you have a piece of jewelry that is almost perfect but just needs a little something extra, consider personalizing it. You could add an engraving or attach a charm that represents your new family.
Remember, the key to repurposing family jewelry is to keep the integrity of the original piece intact while adding your own personal touch. Take the time to think about what you want and work with a jeweler to create a one-of-a-kind piece that you will cherish forever.
Don't: Feel Obligated to Wear It
When it comes to choosing the perfect jewelry for your special day, it can be hard to know where to start. It becomes even more challenging when you feel obligated to wear a family heirloom. While it is undoubtedly meaningful and sentimental, it's important to keep in mind that you do not have to wear it if it doesn't fit your style or vision.
Don't feel guilty if you don't want to wear it. Just because it's a family heirloom does not mean you have to wear it. Your wedding is a day to celebrate the love between you and your partner and to showcase your unique style and personality, so you should feel confident in the jewelry you choose.
If you're feeling unsure about wearing an heirloom piece, consider repurposing it into something new that suits your taste. This way, you can still honor your family's tradition while also incorporating your personal style.
Ultimately, the decision to wear family heirloom jewelry on your wedding day should be yours and yours alone. Don't feel pressured to wear something that doesn't feel right just because of familial expectations. Instead, take the time to consider your options and choose jewelry that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and true to yourself.
