When it comes to bridal jewelry, it's fine-and fun-to dial your typical style up a notch or two. After all, when else will you get to be princess for a day? If you haven't even started thinking about what jewelry you'll wear on your wedding day, it's time to get going; when it comes to your wedding day, you don't want to overlook any detail. So, let's talk bridal jewelry: Of course, you have your engagement ring that started you on this path to the altar, and it's arguably the most important piece of wedding jewelry you own-which is why you lovingly polish and show it off on your well-manicured hand to anyone you meet-but what about your other bridal jewelry? As gorgeous as your engagement ring is, it's time to start thinking about your entire wedding ensemble, and that includes jewelry. Often overlooked until the last minute, bridal jewelry is one of the most important bridal accessories and should be given your full attention as it can make or break your look. Go too over the top you'll get drowned out. Forego bridal jewelry and you'll look oddly undone. Here's a checklist of rough dates to get you thinking about your wedding jewelry:
- 5-6 months prior to the wedding: Shop for wedding bands, if you haven't already done so. Pick something classic and comfortable-something that you can picture wearing years from now. That diamond-encrusted monstrosity might look great with your engagement ring, but something simple you can wear without the engagement ring from time to time might be a better choice. (Trust me, you'll probably take it off from time to time for workouts, baking, bathing babies, dogs, etc.) A simple band that looks fine on its own is key. Classic is always in style...you'll love a plain, simple gold or platinum ring or eternity band just as much years from now as you do today. To make bands more personal, send them out for engraving if you like. One final note: Make sure the size is perfect. You don't want your ring slipping off or getting stuck. (And don't forget to bring them to the ceremony; they do play a key part, after all!)
- 3-4 months before the wedding: Purchase gifts for each other. It is a tradition for a groom to give pearl jewelry to his bride that she can then wear on her wedding day-Joe DiMaggio gave Marilyn Monroe a classic 18-inch round white cultured pearl strand-and gifts for in-laws, maids, groomsmen, and any shower hostess if different from your attendants. Jewelry makes a great gift for your attendants. Matching jewelry, or something slightly different in the same color or stone, is something bridesmaids can wear both on your wedding day and in the future. Freshwater cultured pearls are a wonderful option as they are affordable and come in an array of gorgeous pastel colors. Some companies (try the Internet, but check return policies before purchase) even have children's pearl jewelry for flower girls and junior bridesmaids. Order far enough in advance to make sure you like what you chose. If not, you'll have to return it and shop for something else.
- 3-4 weeks before the wedding: Finalize your bridal jewelry. Before you decide what to wear, take a look at your dress, which is likely a reflection of your personal style (unless your mom insisted on something different). If your dress is simple and classic, you can pick classic jewelry to accompany it, such as a pearl strand and pearl studs or diamond pendant and diamond studs. A pearl and diamond combination (or CZ) is gorgeous too. A classic dress can also serve as background for a bold, statement-making piece such as a large diamond pendant or pearl choker with an emerald or sapphire clipped on for color. If your dress is ornate, stick with simple jewelry. A simple pearl pendant and pearl-and-diamond (or CZ) studs are elegant and sophisticated. Likewise, a multi-strand pearl bracelet looks stunning as long as you forego long sleeves and gloves. By now, you should have a very good idea of what hairstyle you'll wear with your wedding dress. Keep in mind that updos can show off necklace and earrings, but long hair needs bolder styles (think dangle or chandelier earrings). On a budget? Consider making your bridal jewelry your "something borrowed." If a family member, friend or future in-law has a gorgeous piece of jewelry they're willing to lend, so much the better, so ask! If you decide to purchase bridal jewelry, choose something you can wear again. Traditional pearl jewelry is not only a favorite of brides since recorded history; it's also a classic style that is consistently timeless. Bonus: Every time you wear your wedding jewelry to work, parties, etc., you'll think of your special day.
- 1-2 weeks before the wedding: Make sure, when you pick up your wedding gown, that you try on your wedding jewelry while wearing the dress and that the jewelry and gown complement each other. If you don't like what you see, you still have time to rethink your accessories. Just go online and choose overnight shipping and you'll be a princess for sure.

A graduate of the Gemological Institute of America's Graduate Pearls program, Amy Drescher is a fashion writer and accessories buyer for http://www.moonriverpearls.com. She welcomes your questions. Reach her at adrescher@moonriverpearls.com.