What Jewellery Should a Bridesmaid Wear?

June 13, 2025

Weddings are more than just a celebration—they’re a statement of style, personality, and shared memories. And while all eyes may be on the bride, bridesmaids play an equally important role in setting the tone and aesthetic of the big day. Whether you’re a part of a destination wedding, an intimate ceremony, or a grand Indian affair, knowing what jewellery a bridesmaid should wear can make or break your overall look.

Choosing the right bridesmaid jewellery requires a balance of elegance, harmony with the wedding theme, and just enough individuality to stand out without overshadowing the bride. At Shineers, we believe that minimalist, meaningful, and sustainable jewellery enhances the magic of these moments. Let’s dive into a complete style guide that answers the question—what jewellery should a bridesmaid wear?

Why Bridesmaid Jewellery Matters

As a bridesmaid, you’re not just showing up—you’re part of the bride’s most cherished circle. Your outfit and accessories should reflect:

1. The overall theme or palette of the wedding

2. Coordination with other bridesmaids

3. A sense of personal expression

4. Photogenic charm for all those selfies and candid moments

Jewellery acts as the finishing touch that brings your entire bridesmaid look together. The right accessories add elegance, cohesion, and confidence to your look while ensuring you’re camera-ready at every turn.

Jewellery Essentials for Every Bridesmaid

Let’s break down the key jewellery categories you should consider for your bridesmaid look:

1. Earrings: Statement or Subtle?

Earrings can either highlight your face or complete the ensemble without taking the spotlight. Here’s how to choose:

a. Studs or Minimal Drops for elegant, modern themes or day weddings.

b. Statement Earrings like chandbalis or contemporary danglers for sangeets or cocktail functions.

c. 925 Silver Hoops or gold-plated double hearts work great for Indo-western outfits.

Shineers Pick: Anti-tarnish Gold-Plated Statement Hoops for Modern Bridesmaids.

2. Necklaces: To Layer or Not?

Depending on your neckline, go for:

a. Minimalist pendant chains for off-shoulder or deep V-necks

b. Stacked chokers for high-neck or halter blouses

c. No necklace if your earrings are the main focus or the blouse is heavily embellished

Shineers Pick: Adjustable Paperclip Chain or Minimal Bar Pendant in 925 Silver.

3. Bracelets and Bangles

A simple bracelet or cuff can be the perfect understated addition:

a. Single cuff for a modern and minimal vibe

b. Stacked slim bangles for traditional wear

c. Choose lightweight, non-intrusive styles so you can dance freely!

Shineers Pick: Gold-Plated Anti-Tarnish Open Cuff Bracelet

4. Rings: Stack or Statement?

a. A bold geometric ring can elevate your look instantly.

b. Stack 2-3 thin bands for a delicate touch.

c. Coordinate ring tones with other accessories for visual harmony.

Shineers Pick: Matte Gold-Plated Minimal Ring Set

Bridesmaid Jewellery According to Outfit Type

Your jewellery should work hand-in-hand with your outfit. Here’s a breakdown:

A. Lehenga Looks

Opt for:

a. Medium statement earrings

b. Minimalist layered necklace

c. Single bracelet or thin bangles

Go for shimmering but lightweight pieces that won’t overpower the lehenga but still shine in photographs.

B. Sarees (Classic or Pastel)

a. Dainty studs or vintage danglers

b. A sleek chain or pearl detail

c. A traditional ring or floral band

Sarees have timeless charm. Silver jewellery adds contemporary edge to pastel sarees, while gold-plated pieces work beautifully with vibrant tones.

C. Indo-Western Dresses

a. Geometric earrings

b. No necklace or a thin collar piece

c. Stacked bracelets

For pre-wedding brunches or fusion weddings, silver jewellery adds a bold yet minimalistic edge.

D. Anarkalis and Kurtas

a. Subtle studs

b. Delicate choker

c. One bold ring or bracelet

Choose sleek, polished pieces that complement the flow of the garment without weighing it down.

Bridesmaid Jewellery Tips by Function

Haldi Ceremony:

a. Keep it playful with yellow-tinted gold-plated studs or floral patterns

b. Use anti-tarnish jewellery—things might get messy!

Mehendi:

a. Avoid rings or heavy cuffs—hands will be busy

b. Choose a single statement earring or ear cuff

Sangeet:

a. Shine bright with bold hoops or glam danglers

b. Choose waterproof, anti-tarnish jewellery for long wear

Wedding Day:

a. Go traditional but minimal

b. If the bride is heavily decked, your look should complement, not compete

Reception or Cocktail:

a. Go glam! Sparkling silver hoops or sculpted earrings

b. Add bold rings or cuffs for dramatic effect

Coordinating With the Bride

One common question is: Should bridesmaids match the bride?

The answer: Not exactly. Your jewellery should complement, not mirror. Stick to the same metal tone (gold or silver), and let the bride shine brightest. Bridesmaids can wear:

a. Coordinated designs in smaller scale

b. Similar stones in different settings

c. Matching textures (matte, glossy, pearl, etc.)

Pro tip: Avoid overly traditional or bridal-style pieces. Think contemporary, lightweight, and elegant.