Found your perfect bridal lehenga? Now it’s time for the bridal accessories! Read below to find out the ones you need to buy.
Your bridal look isn’t just about the lehenga, saree, or gown. It’s the tiny, thoughtfully chosen details—the sparkle of the earrings, the glint of the hairpiece, the luxurious drape of a dupatta pin, the play of bangles—that transform a bride into the bride. It’s the accessories that truly seal the deal and give your wedding ensemble its personality, emotion, and drama.
Whether you’re a minimalist keeping it soft and elegant or a full-glam queen ready to command every camera angle, the right bridal accessories can elevate your look beautifully. And with modern brides experimenting with heritage as well as contemporary elements, the options are almost endless.
Below is your ultimate guide to the must-have bridal accessories—covering everything from versatile jewellery pieces to statement-making bridal hair accessories, including options specifically inspired by Indian bridal aesthetics. By the time you finish reading this blog by Wedding Affair, your virtual cart might be full… and your bridal look, flawless.
Table of Contents
- Timeless Jewellery Pieces
- Essential Indian Bridal Accessories
- Bridal Hair Accessories Worth Investing In
- Statement Hand & Waist Accessories
- Footwear & Other Underrated Essentials
- Modern Add-Ons Brides Love Today
Timeless Jewellery Pieces
Jewellery is often the star of the bridal ensemble, especially for Indian weddings, where craftsmanship and cultural symbolism take centre stage. But rather than just piling on everything available, the modern bride curates her look to reflect her personality. These pieces are absolute must-haves for most brides:
- The Necklace Set That Defines Your Look
Your necklace is often the first thing people notice. Whether it’s a heavy Polki set with cascading drops or a more contemporary diamond piece, it frames your entire bridal aura. For Indian bridal accessories, sets that come with matching earrings and a maang tikka offer a complete look without you having to hunt for individual pieces.
- Earrings That Balance Your Features
Oversized chandbalis, delicate jhumkas, or elongated danglers—your earrings matter as much as your necklace. They add sparkle to your face and complement your hairstyle. If you want to incorporate bridal hair accessories, pick earrings that match the stones or motifs you’ll be using in your hair.
- Maang Tikka & Matha Patti
This is a signature element of Indian bridal accessories. A single-string tikka gives elegance, while a full matha patti adds regal charm. South Indian brides also love netti chuttis, which sit beautifully on the forehead.
- Nath (Nose Ring)
A nose ring instantly gives you that divine, goddess-like bridal energy. Even if you haven’t pierced your nose, modern clip-on versions come in beautiful designs.
- Choker + Rani Haar Combo
One of the most iconic combinations in Indian bridal styling. The choker frames your neckline, while the long haar elongates your torso—creating a beautifully layered, royal look.
Read Also: Vintage Bridal Jewellery Trend You’ll Totally Fall For
Essential Indian Bridal Accessories
Indian bridal accessories go far beyond jewellery. These are functional yet glamorous pieces that bind your entire look together:
- Kaleeras
Traditionally worn by North Indian brides, kaleeras have evolved dramatically. You’ll now see pearl-chains, floral kaleeras, tasselled versions, and even personalised styles with initials or charms.
- Choodas & Bangles
Choodas aren’t just an accessory; they’re symbolic, emotional, and aesthetic. Many brides now mix traditional choodas with kundan, pearl, or glass bangles for a rich, layered look.
- Kamarbandh (Waist Belt)
A waist belt does more than accentuate your curves—it holds your dupatta and lehenga in place. This makes it one of the most practical Indian bridal accessories. Metallic waist belts, temple jewellery styles, and pearl waist chains are the current favourites.
- Armlets (Bajubandh)
Perfect for sleeveless or off-shoulder blouses, they add a delicate touch of vintage charm.
- Hathphool & Rings
Hand accessories are underrated gems. A hathphool, whether minimal or intricate, makes your mehendi pop and adds grace to your bridal portraits.
Bridal Hair Accessories Worth Investing In
Your hair is a big part of your bridal silhouette, and the right bridal hair accessories can make your hairstyle look lush, elegant, and camera-perfect.
- Juda Pins & Hair Brooches
Indian bridal hair accessories often feature kundan, pearls, or temple motifs. A statement brooch at the centre of your bun can instantly make your hairstyle wedding-ready.
- Floral Accessories
Fresh mogras, roses, or baby’s breath woven into the hair are evergreen. Modern brides also love artificial floral accessories that last all day without wilting.
- Hair Chains
Dainty chains draped across the bun or braid add movement and shimmer. They pair beautifully with traditional attire.
- Passa / Jhoomar
Worn on the side of the head, this Mughal-inspired piece creates a stunning asymmetrical look. Brides wearing shararas, anarkalis often choose this.
- Crystal Hair Combs
For brides opting for gowns or fusion outfits, crystal combs, pearl clips, and metallic vines give a fairy-tale feel without overshadowing the main jewellery.
Statement Hand & Feet Accessories
These are the quiet contributors that bring elegance, tradition, and modern aesthetics together.
- Potli Bag or Clutch
This isn’t just a fashion accessory—it’s your tiny survival kit on your wedding day. Whether you’re carrying lipstick or tissues, pick a potli embroidered with pearls, zardosi, or sequins.
- Anklets & Toe Rings
South Indian and North Indian bridal looks both embrace these elements beautifully. Even if you prefer subtler anklets, they add a delicate charm visible during the pheras or when your lehenga lifts as you walk.
- Payal with Ghungroos
A soft, tinkling sound accompanies each step—subtle but magical.
- Dupatta Pins & Brooches
Extremely useful for securing your veil or drape, these pins come studded with stones, kundan, and pearls. They prevent wardrobe malfunctions and add a finished look.
Read Also: 9 Bangles to Have in Your Bridal Jewellery Collection
Footwear & Other Underrated Essentials
- Bridal Footwear
Heels, wedges, embroidered juttis—your footwear determines your comfort, posture, and confidence. Choose a pair aligned with your outfit, but ALWAYS test-walk beforehand.
- Second Pair of Backup Footwear
Every smart bride keeps one. Enough said.
- Perfume & Finishing Accessories
You’ll be hugged a thousand times—so pick a lasting scent, a quick-fix compact, and even body shimmer for that bridal glow.
Modern Add-Ons Brides Love Today
Today’s brides experiment with global trends while keeping traditions intact. Some modern accessories that are immensely popular include:
- Personalised Jewellery
Initial pendants, customised charms, and personalised payals add a sentimental touch.
- Cape Dupattas
Instead of a regular drape, designers are creating embroidered capes that double up as accessories and make the bride look ethereal.
- Hair Veils
From pearl-studded veils to shimmering trails, they add grandeur to reception and sangeet looks.
- Minimalist Diamond Sets for Cocktail Night
Soft glam is in. A thin diamond necklace with small earrings is a crowd favourite for pre-wedding functions.
FAQs
- When should I start buying my bridal accessories?
Ideally, 6–8 weeks before the wedding. This gives you enough time for fittings, adjustments, or customisations.
- Should bridal jewellery match the outfit exactly?
Not always. Coordination matters more than exact matching. Contrast jewellery in emeralds, rubies, or pearls can elevate a neutral outfit.
- How many bridal hair accessories should I wear?
It depends on your hairstyle. A detailed bun may only need one statement piece, while a braid could use multiple smaller accessories.
Read Also: Complete Jewellery Guide for Every Wedding Season
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