For more on wedding jewelry styles, we spoke with pearl expert John Ekegren:
MRP: How do you see the increase in pearl popularity reflected in wedding styles?
JE: Pearls are losing their demure reputation and aren't just for special occasions anymore. Open any fashion magazine and you'll see celebrities wearing pearls with casual or edgy clothes and models sporting them on the runways with both daytime and evening outfits layered or mixed with other gems. Colored pearls and irregularly shaped pearls are popular now, too, as are pearl pendants and pins. Of course, a wedding is a special occasion, and as far as bridal attire goes, pearl jewelry has never gone out of style. European royalty have and continue to wear pearls at their weddings, as do modern brides everywhere. Even trendy women often opt for classic pearl jewelry when it comes time to choosing jewelry for their wedding day, and since pearls are back in fashion, the trendy bride can be classic and trendy at the same time. Today's bridal fashions include seed-encrusted bridal gowns, veils and trains. Pearls adorn shoes, bags, tiaras and hair combs, and are even placed inside bridal bouquets. Pearl earrings, pearl necklaces and pearl bracelets are traditional bridal classics that have been worn for centuries and will continue to be worn for centuries to come. Traditional white pearl jewelry looks great with most gowns, the majority of which are white or off-white. Brides who want a stunning contrast can choose pink pearls or black pearls, which can look especially stunning.
MRP: What are the most affordable ways that a bride can add pearls to her wedding attire?
JE: Compared with many other gems, pearls are very affordable. (At Moon River Pearls, an AAA quality 18" necklace made with 6.5 mm pearls is $135.) Simple pearl studs, a single-strand pearl bracelet and a single-strand pearl necklace made with 6.5 mm cultured pearls are all affordable options; many stores and websites offer pearl sets for a discount.
Whatever your budget, keep in mind that, unlike your wedding shoes or tiara, you can wear pearls for years to come, and even pass them on to future generations, so spending a little extra for a quality piece is worth it. Of course, another option is to ask your mother or grandmother to loan you her pearls, and wear them as your "something borrowed."
MRP: What do you think pearls say about the modern bride versus other jewels?
JE: There is no doubt that diamonds are popular and gorgeous, but pearls have symbolized romance and sophistication for centuries. Nothing says understated elegance quite like a classic strand of pearls—they just have a pure allure that complements any wedding gown beautifully, and creates a softer, more classic look than diamonds or other gems. Modern brides who don't want to wear traditional pearls can still capture the gems' elegance by choosing a unique piece or by choosing colored or irregularly-shaped pearls.
MRP: How should a bride choose the right strand(s) to accompany her dress?
JE: Just as you'd choose earrings to complement your hairstyle, bracelets and necklaces should be chosen to complement your dress. A single strand pearl bracelet or multiple-strand pearl bracelet looks best when paired with short sleeves or sleeveless dresses so they don't compete for attention with the dress. A dress with a high neckline looks best with a collar, choker or princess length necklace. A low neckline will accommodate many choices from a choker to a very long strand, called a "rope." Try several lengths to see how they complement your dress, and keep in mind that if you have too much skin between the necklace and the neckline you might be better off with a longer strand. If you're tempted to choose a very long strand, be aware that it might get in the way during the reception—you don't want to smear your pearls with icing when you lean over to cut your cake! A pearl necklace should be shorter or longer than the neckline of your dress; pearls that touch the neckline will compete with the dress. When choosing pearl jewelry, consider, too, the complexity of the dress. A simple, elegant dress can look terrific with a classic single strand or a substantial, eye-catching piece. An intricately-beaded dress will generally look better when the jewelry stays simple and doesn't compete. As far as color goes, classic creamy white pearls complement most skin tones, although some brides' skin tones are best flattered with pearls with rosy overtones. Whether you want classic pearls or something a bit funkier, try several different looks with your dress. If you take your time and find a look that works for you, you'll be enjoying your pearls long after the honeymoon is over.
Flower Girl Jewelry
Big girl pearls are available for children. Check out children’s pearl jewelry, such as our children’s pearl stud earrings, child’s pearl bracelet, child's pearl necklace and child’s Tin Cup necklace.
Style yourself like a celebrity at MoonRiverPearls.com. Read our customer testimonials for what our brides have to say.
|