As wedding guests we often get so excited and completely over-think the occasion-wear, meaning the question ‘what jewellery should I wear’, is often overlooked until the big day, leaving you feeling rushed and flustered. We always get asked ‘can wedding guests wear pearls?’ Unless a member of the wedding party has specifically told you no, the answer is yes! As long as you’re not wearing white (or totally upstaging the bride!) pretty much anything goes when it comes to wedding guest accessories.
Why Choose Pearls as a Wedding Guest Accessory?
Pearls have long been associated with elegance and refinement. Their natural luster and understated beauty make them a versatile accessory that can complement a wide range of outfits. Here are a few reasons why we love seeing you, our CB community wearing pearls to a wedding:
- Timeless Elegance: Pearls never go out of style. Whether you’re attending a formal black-tie affair or a casual garden wedding, pearls can adapt to suit the dress code.
- Versatility: From pearl necklaces and bracelets to earrings and rings, there are countless ways to incorporate pearls into your wedding guest outfit. They can be worn alone for a minimalist look or paired with other jewellery for a more layered and intricate style.
- Meaning: Jewellery is more than just an accessory and often has a story to tell or meaning behind the design. Take our World is Your Oyster Necklace - one of our most loved designs for it’s inspirational message and intricate handcrafted shell design.
Pearl Necklaces for Wedding Guests
One of the most popular choices for wedding guest accessories is a pearl necklace. A pearl necklace can elevate your look, adding a touch of elegance without overpowering your outfit. Here are a few styles to consider:
Classic Strand: A single strand of pearls is timeless and works well with a variety of necklines. It’s perfect for both day and evening weddings. Our Simple Button Pearl Necklace was inspired by style icons Marc Jacobs and Carrie Bradshaw. Freshwater organic pearls retain their natural beauty, meaning they can be treasured forever.
Choker: A pearl choker sits elegantly around the neck and pairs beautifully with off-the-shoulder or strapless dresses. Our Button Pearl Choker is one of our bestsellers and perfect for a classically elegant look.
Layered Necklaces: For a more contemporary look, try layering multiple strands of pearl necklaces of different lengths. This adds dimension and a modern twist to a classic accessory. Layering also allows your personality to shine through with different pieces paired together based on your own creativity.
Pearl Earrings for Wedding Guests
Pearl earrings frame the face beautifully and add a subtle sparkle. Here are some options to consider for your wedding guest pearl earrings:
Studs: Pearl stud earrings are classic and understated. Simple yet sophisticated designs such as our Button Pearl Studs are loved for the versatility and compliment any wedding guest outfit.
Drop Earrings: For a bit more drama, consider pearl drop earrings. They can add a touch of glamour, especially if you’re wearing your hair up. Our Essential Silver and Pearl Drop Earrings feature a naturally irregular white freshwater pearl drop creating a classic staple.
Hoops: Pearl-accented hoops offer a modern and chic look. They’re versatile enough to wear with a wide range of outfits. Our Favourite Pearl Hoop Earrings have a movement which gives a satisfactory boho-luxe feel. The pearl can also be removed for a more relaxed look to suit any outfit.
Tips for Accessorising Your Wedding Guest Outfit
When wearing pearls to a wedding or any special occasion for that matter, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
Match the Formality: Consider the formality of the wedding. A grand ballroom wedding may call for more elaborate pearl pieces, while a beach or garden wedding may be better suited to simpler boho designs such as our World is Your Oyster Collective.
Complement Your Outfit: Choose wedding guest accessories that complement your outfit rather than competing with it. If your dress is heavily embellished, opt for no headpiece and simple, fuss-free jewellery.
Consider the Bride: While it’s perfectly acceptable to wear pearls, be mindful not to overshadow the bride. Avoid large, statement pieces that could distract from the bride’s own jewellery.
Treasured Forever: The Unique Story of Our Pearls
At Claudia Bradby, we have been specialising in hand-selected organic freshwater pearls for nearly 25 years. Each piece is designed to be treasured forever and offers a unique story to tell. Our pearls are not just accessories; they are heirlooms that carry memories and emotions through generations. You’re not just adding elegance to your outfit, but also wearing something with meaning and inspiration to help you through any tough times and be passed down to future generations.
For more wedding guest inspiration, see our Wedding Guest Jewellery collection.