What Jewellery Should Brides Wear in 2026? Three Makers Share Their Advice

Choosing the right jewellery for a wedding day is never just about finishing an outfit – it’s about finding pieces that feel right for you. Whether that’s something delicate and understated, bold and sculptural, or entirely unconventional, jewellery has the power to quietly shape how a bride feels as she walks into one of life’s biggest moments.

We caught up with three of Folksy’s independent jewellery makers whose work spans everything from contemporary silver designs to nature-inspired pieces and handcrafted statement jewellery: Helen Duncan of Silver Nutmeg, Alison Griffiths of Carreg Cariad, and Su Wells of BlueHill Jewellery. Each brings a distinct creative perspective, but all share an understanding of how jewellery can transform bridal styling.

We asked them to share their advice for brides in 2026 – from styling tips and accessory trends, to how to choose pieces that complement different wedding themes and outfits. The result is a thoughtful, inspiring look at modern bridal jewellery, and a reminder that the most meaningful finishing touches are often the ones made by hand.

So, as we enter into peak wedding season, what are your top styling tips for Brides in 2026?

Helen from Silver Nutmeg:

1. Think about the neckline of your dress – drop earrings work well with high high-necked gowns; while dresses with a lower cut are perfect for showing off a single pendant or can be balanced with a choker.

2. Consider your hair style and whether or not you will be wearing a veil or hair accessory such as a tiara or flower crown. Drop or chandelier earrings will help to frame your face if you are opting to wear your hair up. If you will be wearing a tiara, try to choose earrings that match for a cohesive look. Veils and flower crowns make a statement on their own, so opt for fewer, simple or smaller items of jewellery that won’t clash.

3. Finally, opt for jewellery that matches the style of your dress. A contemporary dress with sleek lines can be accessorised with a single statement piece such as a large pendant, single ear jewel, asymmetrical earrings or fashionable arm cuff. Opt for simple, elegant pieces with clean lines. Dresses with more detail, such as embroidery or lace, suggest a romantic or whimsical style and can be accessorised with more ornate pieces of jewellery and nature inspired designs. Brides favouring a less formal look for their big day might want to consider layering and stacking, such as three necklaces of different lengths, or a “party” approach to styling their earlobes.

Alison from Carreg Cariad:

When it comes to bridal jewellery I think it’s becoming much more intentional and fashion-led this year. Brides are moving away from overly matched “bridal sets” and instead choosing one standout element – usually sculptural earrings, baroque pearls, vintage-inspired diamonds, or layered mixed metals. Statement earrings are especially dominant this season, often replacing necklaces entirely with minimalist gowns. Pearls are also having a huge resurgence, but in a modern way: oversized, asymmetrical, and organic rather than classic round strands. Designers and stylists are also embracing mixed metals and more personal, heirloom-style pieces that can be worn long after the wedding day. Overall, bridal jewellery now feels less “traditional wedding accessory” and more like an extension of the bride’s personal style – polished, expressive, and quietly luxurious.

Su from BlueHill Jewellery:

I like a soft chiffon or lightweight crepe with a flowing A-line shape that gently skims the body rather than clinging, finished with a light sweeping train that adds elegance without heaviness.

What jewellery or accessories would you recommend a bride to try on that they might not have thought of?

Helen from Silver Nutmeg:

Your wedding will be one of the most special days of your life, so why not opt for something a little more ostentatious than your usual jewellery, such as a tiara, statement ear piece, elaborate necklace or edgy arm cuff? Selecting fewer, more substantial pieces, particularly those with a sculptural style, is the way to go for 2026.

Alison from Carreg Cariad:

Bridal accessories this year are leaning into “intentional statement” styling — brides are choosing one or two standout pieces instead of perfectly matched sets. Pearls are still huge, but they’re more sculptural and layered now, and mixed metals are officially in.

Su from BlueHill Jewellery:

I always recommend to brides to keep jewellery delicate but you can make it feel contemporary still. Consider pearls with delicate pops of coloured gemstones.

Which pieces from your own collection would suit a bride this Summer?

Helen from Silver Nutmeg:

Pieces from my own collection of handmade jewellery that continue to be popular with brides include:

My little hagstones suit sea-themed and beach weddings and have the added charm of being associated with good luck.

My gemstone hoop necklaces, which I make with a range of different conscientiously sourced, coloured gemstone beads. I have been commissioned to adapt these to feature particular stones, sea glass, and even pearl beads carefully saved from a wedding gown that belonged to a customer’s grandmother.

My crescent moon necklaces appeal to brides who wish to create a whimsical or folk-inspired look.

Alison from Carreg Cariad:

As I work with pearls for so much of my collection, there’s heaps in my shop that would make the perfect Summer Bride accessory. My shortlist would include my new ‘Ivory Cultured Pearl & Shell Pearl Bridal Tiara‘ and for bold brides ticking off their something blue through their accessories I’d recommend my ‘Larimar & Cultured Pearl Statement Necklace‘.

Su from BlueHill Jewellery:

I think anything in my colour pop collection featuring colourful gemstones with pearls.

How important would you say accessories are on the big day?

Helen from Silver Nutmeg:

Carefully chosen items of jewellery provide the finishing touch for any outfit, and your big day is no exception. This is a day when every detail matters, and the accessories you choose will both elevate your style and contribute to how you feel on the day. Items of bridal jewellery also tend to be held on to as treasured heirlooms. They become reminders of the happy day, so you might want to consider their life beyond your wedding. Would you like to continue wearing your jewellery every day, or will it be something that gets kept for special occasions?

Alison from Carreg Cariad:

Accessories matter more than most brides expect – but usually not because guests consciously notice them.

They matter because they, finish the silhouette, balance proportions, make the dress feel intentional, influence how polished you look in photos, help your outfit feel like you, not just “a wedding dress”

A simple gown with the right earrings, veil, shoes, hairpiece, and bouquet styling can look dramatically more luxurious than a heavily embellished gown with no cohesive accessories.

Su from BlueHill Jewellery: