Wedding accessories are often the unsung accents that play a pivotal role in enhancing a look. Cynthia Smith, a wedding stylist and owner of Cynthia Cook Brides in San Francisco Bay, believes that “accessories provide an opportunity for today’s bride to break the typically traditional mold by adding personality, sentimentality or a risqué quality all at once.”
Accessories also have the ability to change one’s look completely, say from ceremony to cocktail, while adding a touch of personalization. “You’re adding an unexpected, potent element, usually that modernizes a traditional look, making an outfit more fashion forward,” said Ms. Smith, who is also a former Vogue market editor. “That’s empowering and draws attention. It also gives designers a chance to express themselves and create beautiful pieces that can make a look come alive.”
The four accouterments below were some standouts from this year’s New York Bridal Fashion Week.
Ironic Twist: The Ring
The Designer: Jillian Sassone, 44, is the founder of Marrow Fine, an independent jewelry house specializing in wedding wear, based in San Diego.
Inspiration: “I love Victorian-era jewelry, and there were these very cool remembrance rings that were made in honor of someone who had passed away. I wanted to take the “in memory” concept and modernize it by adding the traditional “Til Death.” The one L is intentional. It also feels very gender fluid for bridal jewelry and for the runway this year, especially since you can have matching bands.”
Trending: “A bold ring seems more accessible to try than a bolder ready-to-wear piece. People are wanting to show a little edge. This might not be your everyday ring, but depending on your mood or what you want to convey that day, it can be an add-on ring, which we’re also seeing a lot with brides.”
