Vintage Wedding Accessories

Complete your vintage look with some glamorous accessories.

Gloves

There is nothing more stylish and demure than a well-chosen pair of gloves worn with a beautiful wedding gown. Some of the most stylish women in Hollywood wore them - from Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn to Rita Hayworth and Marilyn Monroe. The style of your wedding and of your wedding gown will determine the type of glove you choose, but there are four main styles:

• Opera Gloves are the longest style, with the top reaching past the elbow to the upper arm. This style is best suited for a formal occasion, and will look stunning with sleeveless, one shouldered or very thinly strapped gowns
• Elbow Gloves stop at the elbow as the name suggests. Again, they look best at formal occasions and when worn with strapless, one-shouldered or thinly strapped gowns.
• The Classic Cut is worn between the wrist and the elbow. This style was very popular in the 1950's when they were an essential item for the well dressed-lady. This style works well with all gowns except those with long sleeves.
• Shortie Gloves are, as their name suggests, the shortest style, and usually stop at the wrist. They look stylish with all gown types but are particularly suited to less formal celebrations such as outdoor weddings, shorter gown styles.

Gloves can be purchased at most department stores but for a true vintage look, visit antique stores and op shops, and always check with any elderly relatives!

Shoes

The popularity of vintage styling has made finding beautiful vintage shoes much easier! The best tip is to never judge a shoe by how it looks on the rack or in a picture - if possible, always try it on! The varied positioning of features such as straps, buckles and stitching, and of course different heel heights and sizes will look different depending on your shoe size, leg shape and gown style. Some basic vintage styles include the "Mary Jane" and T-strap shapes, lace-up bootie styles, peep-toe pumps and of course elegant low-stiletto heels.

Hair Accessories

Nothing looks more stunning in soft vintage hairstyles such as curls, finger waves and buns than a beautifully hair clip or pin. Antique and vintage jewellery stores are the best places to find beautiful pieces - or in your grandmothers jewellery box! Keep your eyes out for combs, bar clips and slides embellished with crystals, pearls or even gemstones. A reputable jeweller should be able to make any necessary repairs and will clean the piece to have it shining beautifully for your wedding day.

Jewellery

There is such an incredible array of vintage jewellery pieces available that finding some for your day should be simple! Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of diamonds or pearls, or want a stunning art-deco piece to complete your look, take the time to browse, and don't be afraid to ask for advice. If you can, take a photo of your wedding gown with you - a good jeweller will have a well trained eye for aesthetics and a visual of your gown will help them point you to a piece that suits you.

A good idea is to always set yourself a budget for your jewellery before you start - that way you won't overspend if you find too many beautiful options! But do remember, a timeless, well chosen piece - while slightly more expensive - will only increase in value and will be a treasure you can enjoy for years to come! If you find something you particularly love, why not ask you husband or parents to contribute to it as your wedding present?

Hand bags

Every lady should have a beautiful bag to carry her personal items, and the vintage bride is no exception!

From delicate hand-beaded items to small drawstring pouches and of course the elegant triangle and trapezium shaped styles, there is something to suit every gown! But remember that you should only be carrying the bare necessities with you on your wedding day, so opt for smaller sizes and shorter straps.

Jackets/Shawls

If you're planning a wedding in the cooler months, you have a wonderful opportunity to find a perfect vintage jacket, shawl or stole to wear either during the day or just later in the evening. A beautiful faux fur, a delicate lace bolero or cape, or an elegantly tailored jacket are all perfect options - but always look for a style that will compliment your gown and the mood of your occasion. A fur would look stunning for a glamorous vintage cocktail party, but a lace bolero might be more suited to a more casual garden party. If you find an item you love that needs a little work, take a photo and ask the store to hold the piece for you, then take your photo to a dressmaker or tailor for their advice.