Shop Us at BHLDN

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Did you know that you can buy select Bel Aire Bridal accessories online? Check out our lovely Carlyle comb, currently available through BHLDN, here!

BUY NOW

Slip a pretty vintage-inspired bow into your tresses. This silver Art Deco accent shimmers with tiny rhinestones. Easily fitting into an updo or partial updo, this carefree comb combines the jazzy elements of 1920s style with sweet sparkle. Perfect for wedding events such as engagement parties, bridal showers, and the honeymoon, this petite design also makes a lovely gift for bridesmaids.8814de94437ff68969893cfd10d208b6

Create a look that is all your own by adding a veil or coordinating jewelry. You can browse our earrings for some super swanky styles, or check out our other vintage-inspired combs and clips for more options. Visit My Bridal Style: Vintage for some fabulous inspiration to get you started!

Want to see our designs in person? Visit our Store Locator and find us at a bridal salon near you.

My Bridal Style: Bohemian Love

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The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and here in L.A., the jacaranda trees are blooming! Hot off the heels of Coachella weekend, we can’t get enough of this beach-worthy weather.

In the spirit of summer solstice bliss, we’re introducing a few of our prettiest bohemian bridal veils! Whether you’re getting married this summer or just want to channel your free-spirited personality, we think you’ll find something special to love.

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Cloud Nine Cathedral

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Want Pinterest-level wedding photos? The best way to get a dreamy, ethereal look is to tuck a cut edge cathedral veil into your long, flowing tresses. This ultra-soft, two-tier luxe tulle cathedral floats down your silhouette in a cloud of tulle.

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Lace on the Beach

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Who says lace is just for the honeymoon? Kick off your destination wedding with a gorgeous lace appliqué veil. This stunning cathedral veil features floating lace accents, adding dramatic romance to your unforgettable day. For brides who believe YOLO.

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Spirit of the Sea Pearls

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Top off your windblown tresses with some boho-luxe sparkle! This lovely little fingertip veil shimmers with faux pearls, bugle beads, and rhinestones, adding P.O.S.H. elegance to your look. Treat yourself to bridal heirlooms that you can treasure forever.

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Ribbons in Her Hair

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Do you enjoy life’s simple pleasures? If your big day is all about love, keep your style simple with a classic ribbon edge design. This sweet, cascading fingertip veil adds charming bridal beauty to any gown. Add special meaning to your ensemble with jewelry gifted by your SO.

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Midsummer Dream Veil

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Does your love story feel like a dream? Celebrate with an ethereal, romantic horsehair edge veil. This soft two tier veil cascades to waltz length with enchanting shape and style. Add a bohemian headband or hair wrap to complete a look straight from a fairy tale.

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Flowers for Hours

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Celebrate your inner romantic with a gorgeous lace cathedral veil. Equally at home in a boho garden wedding or formal church ceremony, this stunning design features silver flower embroidery all along dreamy, cascading tiers. Add a floral headpiece to complete your look!

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Want more? Check out our My Bridal Style: Bohemian page for inspiration, or follow us on Instagram for all things bridal!

Veils for Every Gown Silhouette

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You might be wondering how to choose a wedding veil, now that you’ve selected the perfect gown. We’re here to help! Check out our expert stylists’ advice about which veils best complement your dress!ba-veil-lengths-2017

SILHOUETTE: MERMAID

Love the hip-hugging, flared skirt of a mermaid or trumpet? A fingertip veil drifts to 38” and a waltz veil to 60”. These mid-length styles end right about where your skirt flares out, perfectly balancing your silhouette. Consider just one tier, so the back of your gown will remain visible through the tulle!

SILHOUETTE: BALL GOWN

Ever imagine yourself in a gorgeous ball gown? Bring your fairy tale to life! A short elbow veil hits around your waist and beautifully offsets the voluminous skirt. A formal cathedral veil provides a frame for your outfit and transforms your look with elaborate beading, lace, embroidery, or rhinestones.

SILHOUETTE: A-LINE

The A-line gown is on our A-list: it looks amazing on most body types! Veils may be paired with the length of your train: our floor length is 72”, chapel is 90”, and cathedral is 108” long. You can select lace to add romance, rhinestones for a splash of sparkle, or a plain trim for classic elegance.

SILHOUETTE: SHEATH

The cool, 90’s inspired sheath dresses are coming back. These slim-fitting gowns don’t need a lot of veil—try pairing a shoulder length veil or a French net to get that whimsical bridal look. Another great option is a plain cut edge cathedral veil that blows behind you like a wisp on the breeze.

SILHOUETTE: SHORT

Your short bridal dress will be a mini version of the ball gown, A-line, or sheath silhouette. Aside from choosing stunning shoes, you’ll want to select a veil that falls no lower than your waist line: elbow, shoulder, and French net veils are ideal.

Want more inspiration? Follow us on Instagram for styling ideas and all things beautifully bridal!

7 Nature-Inspired Accessories for the Adventurous Bride

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Have you noticed the explosion of elopements and destination weddings on Pinterest?

It’s everywhere: adventurous young couples saying “I do” atop the slopes of misty mountains, on cliffs overlooking gorgeous ocean vistas, or at historic chapels in exotic locales.

We can’t help but think that this new trend of rugged, outdoorsy romance has something to do with a rekindled spirit of exploration—a yearning for far-flung destinations and once-in-a-lifetime moments.

So we selected a few accessories just for you jet-setting, camping-obsessed, trail-blazing brides! Inspired by nature and crafted with care, these special accents are designed to make you look and feel amazing as you embark on the greatest adventure of all.

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Pearl Inspiration Headband

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Style a free-spirited, of-the-moment bridal outfit with a glittering headband. Pretty faux pearls packed in a shimmering design add the perfect accent to your breeze-blown locks. Wear a cut edge veil for a whimsical, ethereal touch of romance.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

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Siren’s Song Halo

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Top off your destination wedding outfit with a boho-luxe halo. This narrow rhinestone-studded band slips over your hair in a continuous design that may be worn alone or with a veil. Available in silver or rose gold, this gorgeous accent crowns your locks with exotic sparkle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

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Walk in the Woods Clip

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Channel your inner goddess flaunting a leafy clip adorned with gilded leaves. This woodsy, nature-inspired design is available in silver or gold to match your other accessories. Style it in the back or on the side to show off an utterly enchanting hairstyle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

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Graceful Weaving Headband

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Exuding sweet charm, this weaving tie garland features tiny metallic flowers, pearls, and rhinestones in a flexible design. Pairing perfectly with beachy gowns and ethereal skirts, this light headpiece tops off a romantic ensemble with delicate beauty. This style is available in silver or gold.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

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Wanderlust Headband

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Feed your wanderlust and travel back to simpler times. Lavish your bridal locks with a gorgeous headband composed of gilded metallic leaves in a shimmering display. Available in silver or gold, this everlasting headpiece channels all the elegance of nature’s bounty.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

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Beach Beauty Comb

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Getting married on an exotic beach? This lovely little comb slips into tousled tresses with perfect ease. Featuring glittering metallic flowers and freshwater pearls, this floral accent adds stunning sparkle. Pair it with pearl earrings or a bracelet for an ensemble you can rock again and again.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

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Unburied Treasure Halo

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Revel in rustic beauty with a shimmering metallic filigree and pearl halo. This radiant design sparkles in the sunlight, giving you a gorgeous glow. Add a cascading veil for that final once-in-a-lifetime accent, and pair it with jewelry to complete a stunning look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous  

Want to see more? Follow us on Instagram for all things beautiful and bridal!

5 Tips for Planning a Religious Wedding

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Marriage is steeped with religious meaning. Though social views have changed over time, many people still view it as a sacred union.

Often, brides and grooms choose civil ceremonies for more flexibility; however, religious traditions may still be incorporated to honor one or both parties. In fact, this can be a helpful option if one partner is more spiritual than the other, or each person comes from a different faith.

If you prefer to get married in your place of worship, it’s a good idea to talk to your officiant, first. Most faiths have rules about what a marriage ceremony includes, how long it takes, and when it can be scheduled. Here are a few tips to get you started!

Get a Marriage License

Bottom line: if you’re getting married, you need a legal license. This is not provided by your church; you have to get one from your county or city office. You must verify your identity, eligibility to get married (age and single status), and pay the fees. There may be waiting period and/or window in which you may use the license, so schedule your visit accordingly.

Schedule Ahead of Time

If you’re Roman Catholic, for example, you may not be allowed to marry during Lent or Easter weekend. While some parishes may not prohibit marriages on Sundays, most churches will not cancel regular worship sessions to schedule a wedding. You’ll want to check with your church and find out what days are available ahead of time.

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Consider Your Partner

Interfaith religions and same-sex marriages have been a point of contention over the years. Some religions frown upon marrying someone from another faith and/or require conversion; others are neutral and allow spouses to keep their religions. Some churches/temples only approve weddings after interviewing both people—even couples of the same faith. Some churches recognize civil unions and others do not; the spiritual aspect of marriage also varies between faiths. Be aware of the rules about marriage, children, and divorce before you walk down the aisle!

Include Ceremony Traditions

Religious traditions can add beauty and significance to your wedding. There’s usually a reading from scripture along with words about marriage and/or the couple from the officiant. A ring exchange is typical. Depending on your faith, your ceremony may include a mass, communion, and/or audience participation (sitting, standing, readings, or prayer). Folk traditions such as jumping the broom or handfasting may or may not be allowed, so ask your officiant. Some faiths encourage special practices before or after the ceremony, such as periods of seclusion or traditional dances.

Follow Venue Rules

If you’re getting married in a church, the reception will be in a separate space. There may also be rules about who is allowed to attend the ceremony (for example, if you’re Mormon getting married in a temple). Some venues allow lighting a unity candle and others do not. Jewish weddings are often held outside under a chuppah. Churches may limit your choice of music; a specific dress code may also be required. Don’t assume, however, that you must cover your shoulders or hair. Different parishes espouse different traditions, so check with your local house of worship for specifics.

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Weddings comprise a meaningful part of our culture. Talk to your partner and discuss how your families feel about a wedding that does (or doesn’t) include traditions belonging to a specific faith.

Decide which practices are important to you, and which ones you’d rather leave out. Ask your religious officiant for more guidance, so you can plan a wedding that honors your beliefs and feels right for you. Happy planning!

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More Resources:

http://www.brides.com/story/essential-details-planning-religious-wedding-at-house-of-worship

http://bridalguide.com/planning/wedding-ceremony-traditions/religious-wedding-ceremony-guide

https://www.theknot.com/content/interfaith-wedding-planning-tips

https://www.theknot.com/content/civil-ceremony-basics

https://www.theknot.com/content/marriage-license-basics

The Pros and Cons of Elopement

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Thinking about running away to get married?

Elopements are a growing trend in 2017, and it’s easy to see why—without all the hustle and bustle of planning a wedding, you can really focus on what you want. If you dream of getting married on a mountaintop, you can! Want to say I do in city hall? Go for it!

On the flip side, weddings evolved for good reason, and skipping the traditions can mean you miss out on some important rites of passage. Let’s dive in!

PRO: Focus on Your Love

When you elope, it’s just you and your partner. This moment is private, romantic, and memorable—without extra frills. You can truly let go of the superfluous details and focus on your love. You don’t have to spend a lot of time saying hello to friends and relatives in a whirlwind of a day.

CON: No Family Present

Back in the day, people would elope precisely to cut out disapproving parents and relatives. But if you’re on good terms with your family, you may want them present for this special moment. It’s possible to plan a small and/or casual wedding so your closest loved ones can bear witness.

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PRO: Exotic Location, Small Budget

It’s cheaper to avoid renting a space and feeding guests—hence the attraction of elopements. You literally just have to show up and sign the papers, if that’s all you want. In the social media age, more couples are opting to hire a photographer and exchange vows in a beautiful location.

CON: Missing a Life Event

Your wedding is a rite of passage: it helps to prepare you, socially and emotionally, for marriage. We make a big deal of it because, like graduating school or having a child, it is supposed to stand out. You might later wish you’d worn a white dress, or gone ring shopping, or done ____ differently.

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PRO: Getting What You Want

Tired of your mother-in-law’s unwanted advice? Don’t care what the bridesmaids’ shoes look like? When you elope, you have control over what elements of style—if any—you care to incorporate. You can go to a chapel and have it over in an hour, or say your vows in a hot air balloon. It’s all up to you!

CON: Ignoring Stakeholders

Imagine you’re a parent. A significant moment in your life includes when your daughter or son gets married—you’re probably a wonderful mess of pride, sorrow, and joy. Siblings or close friends may also feel hurt if they’re left out. Bottom line: unless you live under a rock, people care about you and want to participate in your biggest life events.

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PRO: No Planning Needed

Don’t want to stress over planning a wedding? You don’t have to! Eloping means you can skip hiring a wedding planner, following a timeline, obsessing over a gown, picking florals, and choosing invitations. All you need is a license and someone legally certified to marry you (check your state’s requirements).

CON: No Social Skills Gained

Ever hear that communication is vital to a marriage? When you plan a wedding, you also gain skills such as: event planning, interpersonal relations, time management, negotiation, cooperation, compromise, emotional intelligence, budgeting, scheduling, organization, problem-solving, and multi-tasking.

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PRO: Short Waiting Period

Does waiting for years to get married while you plan an extensive wedding sound exhausting? It’s common for couples to spend at least one year (sometimes two or three) saving and planning so they can throw the wedding of their dreams. Eloping can be done in a few days.

CON: Truncated Engagement

When you cut down your engagement time, you also miss getting to know your partner better. Even if you’re a thousand percent sure, an engagement period is like a test drive. It gives you both time to prepare for marriage—and see new/different aspects of each other in the process.

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Whether you’re eloping or planning a large wedding, we’re here for you! Check out our accessories to make your big day even more special, and follow us on Instagram for styling ideas. Congratulations!

Shop Us at BHLDN

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Did you know that you can buy select Bel Aire Bridal accessories online? Check out our lovely Anneli floral comb, currently available through BHLDN, here!

ANNELI COMB

Designed exclusively for BHLDN, this lovely floral comb features soft blush flowers and delicate beaded sprays for a delightful bridal accent that is oh-so-romantic. This whimsical, feminine piece slips easily into any updo and may be worn in the back or on the side; shimmering rhinestones and faux pearls lend an air of elegant charm to this nature-inspired design. A beautiful bridal keepsake, these wilt-free blooms may be worn with or without a veil.

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Love this design? Visit our website to see more beautiful flowers, combs, headbands, and vines. Then use our Store Locator to find our bridal accessories at a retailer near you!

Find Your Wedding Flower’s Meaning

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Today is the first day of spring! To celebrate this glorious season, we’re highlighting a few common wedding flowers and what they mean.

Flowers symbolize a variety of emotions including happiness, jealousy, faithfulness, and even death. This is why when Princess Kate tied the knot back in 2011, she very carefully selected the flowers for her bridal bouquet.

Want every aspect of your wedding to be personal, meaningful, and romantic? Read on to find a flower that is right for you—use it in your bouquet, centerpieces, and décor!

Baby’s Breath

This fragrant, tiny white blossom is often used by florists. Why? It smells great and makes an inexpensive, delicate filler. This little flower symbolizes innocence and long-lasting love. Some brides wear it in a bohemian floral crown, or bestow this charming blossom upon their flower girls.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

Peony

If you’ve ever watched a wedding movie, you’ve seen peonies. These extravagant, lavish flowers are packed with petals and associated with prosperity, beauty, and bashfulness. A bridal favorite, peonies are available in many colors including blush pink and white.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

Forget Me Not

Don’t forget your something blue! These small, clustered flowers are named for the story of a knight who, just before drowning, implored his love to forget me not. These pretty little blossoms incorporate a splash of traditional blue into your ensemble and can symbolize remembrance.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

Rose

Roses are red… or purple, ivory, pink, crimson, orange, or even striped! This flower symbolizes love, first and foremost, and is an obvious choice for any wedding bouquet. Pick a color based on what you’d like to express—red for passion, white for new beginnings, or pink for admiration, just to name a few!

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

Orchid

Looking at an exotic, breezy beach for your wedding or vow renewal? Orchids have long been a favorite of brides marrying in tropical zones and are available in a myriad varieties and colors. This lovely flower symbolizes love, beauty, fertility, and refinement.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

Ranunculus

Ranunculus adds dramatic color and texture to your bouquet. This flower symbolizes radiant charm and attractiveness. Due to its layered petals, this lovely bloom provides a cost-effective but similar look to roses and peonies. White, yellow, or pink varieties are most commonly used for weddings.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

Stephanotis

Brides traditionally carry stephanotis in their bouquets to symbolize marital bliss! These petite, star-shaped blooms are white and fragrant. They are best mixed in with other florals, since they are so small, and add heartfelt meaning to your wedding day.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

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Want to read more about wedding flowers and their meanings? Check out these excellent resources:

http://www.bridebox.com/blog/wedding-flower-glossary-illustrated/

http://www.flowermeaning.com/

http://www.canadianflowerdelivery.com/flower-meaning.aspx

 

6 Green & Utterly Magical Places to Propose

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day! In the spirit of celebrating lush, natural beauty as seen on the Emerald Isle, we’re highlighting romantic and scenic destinations IDEAL for popping the big question. So grab a Guinness, kick back, and check out these awesome proposal spots well worth your greenbacks.

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Maui, Hawaii

A wonderful destination for honeymooners, this lovely island features sandy beaches, warm weather, tropical forests, romantic waterfalls, and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you’re dropping to one knee on a beach or asking atop a mountain, this is an incredible place to get engaged!

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Hoh Rain Forest, Washington

Did you know that not all rainforests are tropical? Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Forest abounds with gigantic old growth trees, moss thicker than blankets, and gushing waterfalls. Bring a raincoat and hot drinks, and enjoy snuggling up after a long day of hiking.

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Big Sur, California

Feed your wanderlust with a road trip along the California coast! A delightful stop along the way, Big Sur is renowned for its stunning views and abundant hiking opportunities. You can take a mini-cation at one of the bed & breakfasts, or spend all day at the beach.

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Parc des Buttes Chaumont, France

A picnic lunch served with sparkly bling in the most romantic city in the world? Yes, please! This lovely park in northeast Paris offers charming views, caves and waterfalls, ponds with wildlife, and lots of greenery. Idyllic for a short stroll, we can easily see dropping a knee in some secluded area.

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Milford Sound, New Zealand

Ready for an adventure? Fiordland National Park in New Zealand boasts spectacular hiking, incredible species diversity, and scenery so gorgeous you’ll feel like you’re in another world. With beaches, forests, and mountains, this breathtaking natural gem is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

This stunning natural formation in County Clare is awe-inspiring. Towering from 390 to 702 feet above the ocean, these world-renowned cliffs are a beloved tourist destination in Ireland. Bring a jacket or buy an Irish sweater, and enjoy amazing views—just don’t drop the ring over the edge!

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What other beautifully green places would you suggest for a proposal? Share your favorite getaways!

All That Glitters: Gold, Rose Gold & Silver

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Ever feel like indulging in luxury? Your wedding is the time to do it!

Weddings are so naturally elegant and gorgeous that a bridal gown without adornments is like a cake without flavor. Accessories help you express a personalized look. Boho or rustic; destination or glamorous; romantic or vintage—choose from any style your heart desires!

In honor of St. Patty’s Day, we are celebrating all that glitters in our oh-so-pretty jewelry collection. Check out shimmering shoulder jewelry, earrings, belts, and bracelets so stunning, they truly deserve to sparkle at the end of a rainbow.

GOLD

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EARRINGS EA204

Styling a romantic ensemble? These rhinestone-encrusted beauties feature a floral rosette and dangling, pear-shaped drops that glitter with enchanting grace. Style this vintage-inspired pair with an antique gold clip or halo, and add a veil for that final, heart-fluttering touch.

Also available in rose gold and silver

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BELT BT072

Shimmering with delightful beauty, this vintage-inspired belt features metallic motifs of pear, round, and marquise rhinestones. Dazzling yet dainty, this narrow belt secures on satin ribbons and may be paired with the gold accessories of your choice.

Also available in silver

(Adore these styles? Check out our Love List for more pretty yellow gold accessories.)

SILVER

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Gown Jewelry SH209

Shoulder jewelry transforms your strapless gown with unique style. Once you slip on this beauty, no other outfit with match yours! Pair these pretty, shimmering strands of bead and crystal with dazzling rhinestone earrings. Add a headpiece and veil for a truly glamorous outfit.

Available in silver only

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BELT 6377

Wrought with silver filigree and iced with sparkling rhinestones, this gorgeous tie belt sits on light-as-air tulle for a look that is ravishingly glamorous. The sash blends into your gown color with breezy beauty, while the stunning metallic design creates a princess-worthy accent.

Tulle is available in blush, champagne, diamond white, ivory, latte, and white.

(Adore these styles? Check out more of our glamorous belts and gown jewelry.)

ROSE GOLD

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EARRINGS EA232

Trendy yet romantic, rose gold is a delightfully feminine metallic to tie into your wedding. Pair these glittering, pavé rhinestone pear drops with a rose gold headpiece for an absolutely stunning look. You can pair this with a blush or rose gold gown, too!

Also available in silver and yellow gold

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BRACELET BC131

When you know your love is forever, commemorate the occasion. This pretty rhinestone-encrusted bracelet features the infinity symbol among shimmering loops in a wedding-worthy design. Marry this piece with rose gold earrings or a romantic veil for an unforgettable outfit.

Also available in silver and yellow gold

(Adore these styles? Check out our Love List for more rose gold designs.)