Your Wedding Day Jewelry Checklist: Don’t Forget Your 'Something Borrowed'

When it comes to planning your wedding day, there’s a lot to think about. From your dress to your shoes to the flowers, every detail needs to be just right. One area that often gets overlooked amidst all the excitement is jewelry. After all, your wedding jewelry isn’t just about completing your look, it’s about making sure you have something beautiful and sentimental to wear as you walk down the aisle. 

One of the most cherished wedding traditions is “Something Borrowed,” and it’s not just a sentimental gesture, it’s a chance to add a touch of luxury to your wedding day without the long-term commitment. Whether you’re borrowing a family heirloom or renting fine jewelry, this piece will be both a stunning addition to your ensemble and a meaningful part of your big day.

If you’ve already started planning your wedding jewelry, you might be wondering where to start. Here’s a simple wedding jewelry checklist to ensure you don’t forget your “Something Borrowed” (or any of the other essential pieces!).

1. Start with the Necklace: Your Bridal Statement Piece

When it comes to jewelry, the necklace is often the centerpiece of your bridal look. For many brides, a necklace is the focal point that ties the entire ensemble together. Whether you’re wearing a strapless gown, a v-neck, or a high-neckline dress, the right necklace can elevate your look and make you feel even more glamorous.

If your dress has a plunging neckline, consider a classic diamond tennis necklace or a layered chain for a touch of elegance. For higher necklines, you might want to skip the necklace altogether and focus on earrings or a statement bracelet instead.

A borrowed pearl strand from your grandmother or a diamond pendant from your mother is the perfect way to incorporate your “Something Borrowed” with meaning and grace. It’s also a beautiful way to carry a piece of your family with you on your big day.

2. Earrings: Frame Your Face with Sparkle

They may be small, but they make a big impact, especially in your wedding photos. From simple studs to dramatic chandeliers, your earrings should complement your hairstyle, neckline, and overall bridal vibe.

Wearing your hair up? Go bold with drop earrings or sparkling vintage pieces. Wearing it down or in soft waves? Diamond or pearl studs offer timeless beauty without competing with your hair.

Pro tip: Borrowing earrings is a popular choice for brides, as they can add elegance and sparkle without needing to invest in a piece you may only wear once. Consider borrowing from a friend or family member, or renting a designer pair for the day.

3. Bracelet or Cuff: Add Elegance to Your Wrist

If your dress has shorter sleeves or no sleeves at all, a diamond tennis bracelet or bangle can add just the right touch of glamour. Whether you opt for a delicate diamond bracelet or a bangle, make sure it doesn’t overpower your look or snag on your dress.

A borrowed tennis bracelet or vintage bangle can be the perfect way to bring in your “Something Borrowed” while adding sparkle to your wrist. Plus, it’ll shimmer beautifully in those bouquet-holding photos.

4. Rings (Besides Your Wedding Band!)

While your engagement ring and wedding band are front and center, you might also consider a second ring on your right hand, especially if it’s a meaningful family piece. This could be a borrowed gemstone ring from a loved one or a delicate stacking band that ties in with your overall look.

Keep in mind, though: less is more. You don’t want anything to outshine your wedding band or engagement ring, so choose something subtle if you decide to wear an extra ring.

5. Hair Accessories: The Finishing Touch

Not all jewelry goes around your neck or wrists, some of the most memorable pieces are worn in your hair. Think jeweled hairpins, vintage combs, tiaras, or floral headpieces with metallic details.

This is a great opportunity to include a sentimental or borrowed piece, maybe your mother’s bridal comb or a vintage hairpiece passed down through generations. Not only will it add beauty and personality to your look, but it will also make you feel connected to the women in your family who came before you. 

6. Don’t Forget “Something Borrowed”

Tradition says a bride should wear “Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, and Something Blue.” While it’s easy to buy something new or slip on something blue, “Something Borrowed” adds an emotional touch that can’t be bought.

Whether it’s your grandmother’s pearls, your sister’s earrings, or even a rented designer necklace, this borrowed piece becomes part of your story. It symbolizes love, trust, and connection, exactly what a wedding day is all about.

And if no family heirloom fits your style, renting fine jewelry is a fantastic modern twist on this tradition. You'll still get that luxurious, once-in-a-lifetime sparkle, without the long-term price tag.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Jewelry

• Match the metal to your dress: White gold or platinum pairs beautifully with white dresses, while gold complements ivory or champagne gowns.

• Stay true to your personal style: Your wedding day isn’t the time to try a completely new look. Choose pieces that feel like you, just a little elevated.

• Keep comfort in mind: You'll be wearing these pieces all day (and night), so make sure they're comfortable, secure, and not too heavy.

• Less is more: You want your jewelry to enhance your beauty, not overwhelm it. Choose one or two standout pieces and keep the rest simple.

In Conclusion

Your wedding jewelry is more than just beautiful accessories—it’s a reflection of your personality, your love story, and the people who matter most. Every piece, especially your “Something Borrowed,” holds meaning and memory. When chosen thoughtfully, your jewelry not only enhances your look but also empowers you to feel confident, connected, and radiant on one of the most important days of your life.

At Teresa and Sons, we understand how special these moments are. Whether you're looking for timeless heirlooms, elegant modern pieces, or that perfect sentimental touch, our curated collection is designed to help you shine bright, sparkle boldly, and say “I do” in unforgettable style.