There is so much, and I don’t say it lightly, but so much we as brides have to organise for the big day.
The dress, the shoes, the pre-wedding events – it all stacks up. Trust me, I’m very much in the thick of it. And one thing I’ll admit I have let fall by the wayside is my accessories.
Gloves, or no gloves? Studs or drop earrings? Heels or flats? These are the questions that have rattled my brain for weeks, leaving me stuck to make a single decision. Until recently.
I’ve finally started to narrow down my options and have curated an edit of what I think are the best wedding accessories every bride needs – all under $500.
The best wedding accessories for a bride (on a budget)
Chantilly Lace Gloves
$159 at The Iconic
When I tell you how far my jaw dropped when I saw how much it was going to be to add some sleeves to my dress… I was aghast to say the least.
Thankfully, celebrity favourite brand High Heel Jungle has a gorgeous collection of bridal accessories, like these delicate lace gloves that would beautifully complement any dress.
WHO loves
- Chantilly lace with intricate floral patterning
- Elegant scalloped lace edge detailing
- Sheer, lightweight feel with soft stretch for comfort
- Opera-length silhouette
Dani Tennis Necklace
$84.95 $99.95 at Zafino
If you’re reading this, then you know all too well that diamonds are not cheap. But this Australian-founded jewellery brand has created the perfect tennis necklace at an affordable price.
A tennis necklace is an absolute classic for a bride, and this one comes in three lengths so you can choose the one that suits you and your dress neckline.
WHO loves
- Made with high-quality Cubic Zirconia
- Non-flippable and finished with a water-resistant coating
- Hypoallergenic and nickel-free
Petite Birthstone Studs
$340 at Class A Jewellers
Something blue! These gorgeous studs are perfect if you’re a minimalist like me, and you can customise them with your birthstone if the blue isn’t your style.
WHO loves
- Petite round brilliant-cut birthstone
- Available in all 12 birthstones
- Solid 9ct yellow or white gold
Leda Beaded Satin Ankle-Strap Pumps
$146 at Charles & Keith
If you’re looking for affordable wedding shoes (I know I am), Charles & Keith has a gorgeous range of heels and flats to choose from.
Coming in at 9cm, which I’m told is the sweet spot for a wedding heel, these Leda beaded satin pumps come with a smooth satin finish that contrasts beautifully against the beaded embellishments across the vamps.
WHO loves
- Pointed-toes
- Skinny adjustable ankle straps
- 9cm heel height
What are the biggest bridal trends for 2026?
With winter wedding season in full swing (and some lucky people heading to Europe for summer weddings), I’m seeing a growing appetite for statement accessories that elevate occasion wear without the need to invest in an entirely new outfit.
Kathryn Eisman, founder of accessory brand High Heel Jungle, agrees.
“The biggest shift I’m seeing is that brides no longer want to simply be dressed; they want to be styled,” she tells WHO.
“In gowns, there are two strong directions emerging: romantic structure and personal transformation. We’re seeing corsetry, basque waists, lace, fuller skirts and old-world silhouettes return, but in a fresher, more modern way. At the same time, brides are thinking beyond one look. They want a ceremony moment, a reception moment and an after-party moment.
“Gloves are one of the key bridal accessories returning in a major way – whether it’s an opera-length Chantilly lace glove or a short sheer tulle glove. The secret is lightness. Not heavy, opaque satin gloves, but pieces that allow you to see the skin through them while adding elegance, mystery and just the right amount of drama.”
What about timeless bridal accessories?
Of course, where there are trends, there is concern. How will you know if what you love now isn’t just a passing trend you’ll regret later?
“A beautiful veil, pearls, lace, sheer gloves, silk or satin shoes, heirloom jewellery and delicate hosiery will never date,” Kathryn says.
“Timeless does not mean plain. The best bridal accessories have restraint, romance and a sense of ceremony. They add feeling without overwhelming the bride.”
“For me, the most timeless bridal pieces are the ones that still feel emotional years later — not because they followed a trend, but because they captured the mood of the bride perfectly.”
Why trust WHO Shopping?
WHO has been covering celebrity culture, red carpet moments and entertainment news for decades. Our shopping team works alongside our entertainment editors to identify the exact products behind the looks everyone’s talking about, from awards season glam to off-duty essentials.
We regularly consult stylists, makeup artists, trainers and industry insiders to verify product details and understand why these items perform under real-world conditions. When we recommend something, it’s because it’s genuinely relevant to the moment, not just trending.
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