One of the most iconic things about Queen Elizabeth was her little black purse. It went everywhere she went and was probably the most photographed member of the royal family (let’s be real, the purse had its own personality), other than QE2 herself. And one of the most talked about mysteries of Queen Elizabeth’s reign was “what’s in her pocketbook?”. We got a little glimpse of what she might carry in her purse during the Jubliee when she shared a jam sandwich with Paddington the Bear. But, even after her death, the mystery remains.

Like with Queen Elizabeth, wedding guests may wonder what a bride carries in her wedding day purse. But, if QE2 taught us anything, it’s that accessories are everything. They can make or break an outfit. We rounded up some tips to help you pick the perfect wedding day accessories.

Clutch

For some brides, a clutch is perhaps the most essential accessory. Whether you want to use a different purse for each of your wedding-related events, or one clutch that suits all events, there are some essential things to look for.

Some Styles to Consider

• A clutch marked with Mrs. or Wifey on it.
• Beaded
• Embroidered
• Lace
• Envelope
• Sequin
• Floral

Tips

• Be yourself. If you don’t normally carry a purse, today isn’t the day to start.
• Make sure your clutch fits your needs. Once you know what you’ll need to carry, pick a purse that won’t be bursting at the seams.
• A clutch is an excellent opportunity for going vintage. Consider searching vintage and used clothing stores for the perfect wedding day bag.
• Martha Stewart (basically the Queen Elizabeth of America) compiled a list of perfect wedding day clutches.

Jewelry

Some experts compare picking your wedding day jewelry to frosting your wedding cake. Just like your cake design, your jewelry choices should complement your overall look, and stay true to your personal style.

Some Styles to Consider

• Statement earrings
• Pearls
• Diamond studded earrings
• Drop earrings
• Necklaces
• Tiaras
• Headbands
• Hairpins

Tips

• Make sure you match your metals.
• When possible, mimic your dress details in the design and cuts of your jewelry choices.
• Consider your jewelry as an opportunity to incorporate something blue.
• Incorporate sentimental pieces.
• Match your neckline to your necklace.

Veil

Often considered the iconic wedding accessory for a bride (much like Queen Elizabeth’s purse was her iconic accessory), the veil can take you from a girl in a white dress to a bride (at least that’s how it always happens on Say Yes to the Dress).

Some Styles to Consider

• Birdcage
• Cathedral
• Sheer
• Multiple layers

Tips

• Make a statement, if a veil isn’t your thing, consider a tiara or headpiece.
• Match the exact shade of your gown.
• Pick what will be the star of the show (the dress or the veil) and let the other take a backseat.
• Consider adding an accessory to the veil itself.
• The Knot suggests “Consider your body type: Longer waltz or floor-length veils will elongate a petite frame while mid-length styles, like fingertip or elbow-length veils, can visually cut you in half, making them a better pick for taller brides. Short styles, like a birdcage or bandeau, work for all shapes and sizes and lend a fun, retro vibe to your gown”.

Other Fun Accessories

• Capes
• Shawls
• Gloves
• Belts – can create the illusion of curves
• Sunglasses
• Floral headdresses – best with loose curls

Pro Tip

Did you know you can rent wedding accessories rather than buying them? This may be a great way to save some money on designer duds. Check out these websites for great rental options.

• Rent the Runway
• Verstolo (diamond rentals)
• Happily Ever Borrowed
• Vivrelle (purses)
• Bag Borrow or Steal (purses)
• Tresjours (jewelry)
• Poshshare (bridesmaid dresses)

Something Borrowed

Don’t forget that each bride will want something borrowed as part of her wedding day must-haves. Your accessories are a great place to ask family and friends for borrowed items.

Finally remember Coco Chanel’s advice “Before you leave the house, look in the mirrors and take at least one thing off”. Essentially, less is more.

If you’re still wondering what to put in your wedding day clutch, be sure to read our MOH guidebook post that may give you an idea of some wedding day necessities. And be sure to read our Wedding Day Shoe blog as well. After all, Queen Elizabeth’s iconic accessory was her clutch, but Cinderella’s was her shoe.