Whether you have found your dream dress or haven’t started looking yet, bridal accessories are something to know about since they can be the magic-makers of your wedding look! While the gown may take center stage, accessories are the finishing pieces that add personality, polish, and a sense of completeness. From a veil drifting behind you, a pair of earrings catching the light, or delicate hairpieces woven into an updo can transform a beautiful dress into a truly unforgettable ensemble that create an unforgettable story. Here are different accessories we offer at Sash + Bustle, how to style them, how they work, and more!

Veils

When you think of wedding accessories, we bet you thought of veils first. Bridal veils are one of the most iconic wedding accessories, adding movement, tradition, and a touch of romance to a bride’s look. Typically attached to a comb or pins and secured into a hairstyle, veils are designed to drape gracefully over the head and shoulders, with lengths ranging from short birdcage veils that frame the face, to dramatic cathedral veils that trail several feet behind the gown. Throughout history, veils have symbolized everything from modesty and protection to elegance and celebration, dating back to ancient wedding traditions where they were believed to ward off evil spirits. Today, they are more about personal style than symbolism, with options including single-tier and multi-tier designs, lace-edged veils, fingertip lengths, chapel styles, and embroidered or embellished pieces. Most of the veils we offer at S+B will be made out of lace, tulle or both! Some of the designers we carry that offer veils are Veil Trends, Locket, Untamed Petals, Senstudio, and more!

Toppers

Toppers are a versatile accessory designed to layer over or under a wedding dress, instantly transforming the look without changing the gown itself. Typically made from materials like lace, tulle, or sheer illusion fabrics, toppers are worn over the bodice and can add sleeves, higher necklines, or intricate detailing that the original dress may not have. (This makes them great for having a second look or an after party look!) They usually fasten with discreet buttons, snaps, or elastic to sit smoothly over the gown, creating the appearance of a completely different style. While the concept feels modern, the idea of layering garments over bridal gowns has roots in historical bridal fashion, when jackets, boleros, and lace overlays were worn for warmth, modesty, or changing trends. Today’s bridal toppers come in many styles, from delicate long-sleeve lace overlays to structured cap-sleeve designs and dramatic high-neck silhouettes, making them a popular choice for brides who want flexibility, coverage, or an extra layer of detail without committing to it permanently. The best part of getting a topper from S+B is you can mix and match designers! Some of the designers we carry that offer toppers are Saint, Hayley Paige, Locket, and more!

Gloves

Looking to add a timeless accessory that adds elegance, drama, and makes you feel like royalty during your wedding? Gloves are the accessory for you! Gloves are typically made from materials like satin, lace, tulle, or sheer mesh and are designed to complement the fabric and style of the gown. Styles range from short wrist-length gloves to opera-length gloves that reach above the elbow, as well as fingerless or illusion styles that offer a modern twist. Historically, gloves were a symbol of formality and refinement in fashion, and they became especially popular in weddings during the Victorian era when modesty and polished presentation were highly valued. Today, bridal gloves are chosen more for style than tradition, often used to add vintage flair, create a dramatic silhouette, or provide an extra layer of detail to a minimalist gown. When selecting gloves, brides typically consider sleeve length, fabric coordination, and comfort, ensuring the accessory enhances the overall look while still allowing ease of movement throughout the day. Don’t confuse gloves with sleeves, as gloves will cover your fingers and sleeves will not. Some designers we have at S+B that offer gloves are Truvelle, Untamed Petals, and more!

Hair Clips/Headpieces

Adding hair clips into your bridal look are a simple yet striking accessory used to add sparkle, texture, or delicate detail to a hairstyle. Designed with small combs, clips, or pins, they secure easily into an updo, half-up style, or loose waves, helping hold sections of hair in place while also serving as decoration. Styles vary widely, from minimalist pearl pins and crystal barrettes to floral designs, vintage-inspired pieces, and sculptural metallic clips that make more of a statement. While decorative hairpieces have appeared in bridal fashion for centuries, modern hair clips became especially popular as brides began favoring more flexible alternatives to traditional tiaras and headpieces. Today they are valued for their versatility, since they can be placed almost anywhere in the hair and layered with other accessories like veils or combs. When choosing a bridal hair clip, brides often consider their hairstyle, the level of sparkle or detail they want, and how the piece complements the dress and other accessories, creating a cohesive finishing touch to the overall bridal look. If you are looking for something more dramatic than just a hair clip, headpieces are a way to truly personalize your look and look gorgeous while doing it. Headpieces can range in size and style, making something for every bride! Some of the designers that offer hair clips/headpieces at S+B are Avenue Accessories, Elizabeth Bower, Untamed Petals, and more!

Necklace and Earrings

Necklaces and earrings are classic accessories that frame the face and neckline, adding shine and balance to a wedding look. Earrings can range from simple studs and delicate drops to statement chandeliers, while necklaces vary from subtle pendants and chokers to layered or more dramatic pieces. These accessories are typically chosen to complement the neckline of the gown and the bride’s hairstyle, with higher necklines often paired with statement earrings and lower necklines leaving room for a necklace. Bridal jewelry is commonly made from materials such as gold, silver, platinum, pearls, crystals, rhinestones, or gemstones, allowing brides to coordinate with other accessories and the overall tone of their wedding. Whether the style leans timeless and minimal or bold and glamorous, the right combination of earrings and a necklace can enhance the dress, highlight facial features, and tie the entire bridal ensemble together with a polished finishing touch. At S+B we do have a limited selection of necklaces and earrings, but you will still be able to find some gorgeous pieces from Elizabeth Bower, Untamed Petals, Haute Bride, and more.

Scarves

In 2024, bridal scarves started to rapidly grow in popularity, and we aren’t complaining! Scarves are an elegant and versatile accessory that can add softness, coverage, and movement to a wedding look. Typically draped around the shoulders, over the arms, or loosely around the neck, bridal scarves are often made from lightweight, flowing materials such as chiffon, silk, tulle, or soft lace so they complement the gown without feeling heavy. They can be worn simply as a wrap for warmth during outdoor or cooler-weather weddings, or styled more intentionally to create a romantic, flowing effect in photos. Styles range from sheer, minimalist scarves to embroidered or lace-edged designs that add extra detail to a simpler dress. Easy to drape and adjust throughout the day, bridal scarves offer both practicality and a graceful finishing touch to a bridal ensemble. They are easy to take on and off, making second looks, or an after party look easily achievable. Designers that offer scarves at S+B are Divine Atelier, Willowby, Watters, and more.

Capes

Non-traditional and alternative brides love capes, as they offer something different from a veil. Capes are a dramatic and elegant accessory that flows from the shoulders or neckline of a wedding dress, creating movement and visual impact similar to a veil but with a more modern, fashion-forward feel. They typically attach discreetly at the shoulders, straps, or back of the gown using snaps, hooks, or small fasteners, allowing them to drape smoothly down the back. Bridal capes come in a variety of styles, from short shoulder capes to sweeping cathedral-length designs that trail behind the bride. They are often made from airy materials such as tulle, chiffon, lace, or organza, though some feature heavier embroidery, beading, or appliqué for added detail. While capes have appeared throughout fashion history as symbols of elegance, status, and drama, their use in bridal fashion has grown in popularity in recent years as brides seek alternatives to traditional veils. Capes are loved for their versatility and statement-making effect, offering a graceful layer that can add coverage, highlight the silhouette of a gown, and create a striking entrance down the aisle. Some designers that offer capes at S+B are Willowby, Pronovias, and Enzonai.

Shoes

Shoes are more than just a practical necessity on your wedding day, they’re a statement of style, personality, and confidence. The right pair can complement your gown, tie together your colour palette, or add a pop of unexpected flair, whether through bold colour, sparkle, or unique design. For brides who want to be non-traditional, shoes offer a subtle way to break the mold: think vibrant heels, patterned flats, sneakers, or even elegant boots. Comfort is equally important, as you’ll be standing, walking, and dancing for hours, so choosing supportive, well-fitted shoes or adding cushioned insoles can make a huge difference. Ultimately, your wedding shoes aren’t just about looks, they’re about feeling poised, expressing yourself, and enjoying every step of your special day with confidence and ease. We have a very limited selection of shoes at S+B that are all off-the-rack. Thankfully, you are able to find the perfect shoe for you at many retailers.

Sleeves

Some wedding dresses will come with sleeves attached, and some will come with detachable sleeves. Sleeves are a timeless and versatile element that can completely transform the silhouette and style of a wedding gown. Dresses with detachable sleeves will attach directly to the bodice of the dress and can range from delicate cap sleeves to long, fitted sleeves or flowing bell and illusion styles, allowing brides to add coverage, elegance, or drama depending on their preference. Common materials include lace, tulle, chiffon, satin, and sheer illusion fabrics, often embellished with embroidery, beadwork, or appliqués to match the gown. Historically, sleeves have played both functional and symbolic roles in bridal fashion, from modest Victorian long sleeves to the romantic, flowing styles of the 20th century, and they remain a popular choice for brides seeking a balance between tradition and modern flair. Whether providing coverage for a formal ceremony, enhancing the gown’s lines, or adding intricate detail, bridal sleeves are a thoughtful way to personalize a dress while creating a cohesive and elegant look from every angle. One great thing about S+B is you can mix and match designers. Just because your dream dress doesn’t offer sleeves, you can find another dress that has sleeves, and add that to your wedding look! Some of the designers that offer sleeves at S+B are Locket, Willowby, Enzonai, Truvelle, Laudae and more!

Belts

Let’s take it back to the early 2010s and talk about one of the most popular accessories, belts. Bridal belts are a stylish and functional accessory that can define the waist, add sparkle, or bring a unique focal point to a wedding gown. They wrap around the midsection of the dress and typically fasten with hooks, snaps, or ribbons, creating a polished and flattering silhouette. Styles range from delicate, minimalist bands to elaborate beaded, jewelled, or floral designs, allowing brides to match the belt to the tone and details of their gown. Common materials include satin, silk, lace, crystals, pearls, and metallic accents, giving options for both subtle elegance and bold statement pieces. Whether paired with a simple gown to create impact or layered over an ornate dress for subtle cohesion, bridal belts are a versatile way to enhance shape, style, and individuality on the wedding day. Although the trend of bridal belts isn’t the most popular right now, they are still a great way to personalize your wedding look and add some flare! At S+B, we have a full wall of different belts you can choose from, with many different styles, there is something for ever bride!

If any of these accessories are an interest to you, book one of our “Accessorize Me Appointments” to have one of our stylists style your final wedding look!