Accessorising Your Beach Wedding Look: Shoes, Veils, and Hairpieces

Choosing the Right Shoes for a Beach Wedding

When it comes to footwear for a beach wedding, comfort and practicality take centre stage. Sand and uneven surfaces mean traditional stilettos are often impractical. Instead, opt for footwear that combines style with functionality. For more ideas, explore beach dresses.

Flat sandals are a popular choice because they are easy to walk in and won’t sink into the sand. Look for styles with straps that secure your foot comfortably, such as beaded or leather slides. If you prefer a bit of height, low wedge heels made with cork or wood work well and provide stability. Keep in mind that some beaches have soft or shifting sand, so narrow heels should be avoided unless you’re prepared for potential sinking.

For additional comfort, consider shoes made from lightweight fabrics or materials that can get a bit wet without damage. Barefoot styling is also a lovely option for smaller, more intimate ceremonies. If going barefoot isn’t quite your style, lightweight ballet flats or espadrilles can be a chic alternative. Choose colours that match or complement your dress, like nude, white, or pastel shades, so the shoes don’t detract from your overall look.

Thinking ahead about what you’ll wear after the ceremony is wise. You might opt for a second pair that are easier to walk in when mingling or dancing later on. Many brides carry a pretty basket or cloth bag to keep delicate shoes protected when not in use.

Selecting a Veil for the Beach Setting

Veils can add a romantic touch to your beach wedding look, but the seaside environment calls for practicality as much as prettiness. Light, breezy veils made from airy fabrics like tulle or chiffon tend to work best, especially when faced with wind or humidity.

Shorter veils, such as birdcages or shoulder-length pieces, are ideal for beach settings. They stay in place better in breezy conditions and don’t interfere with your hair or movement throughout the day. Longer veils, while traditional, may require you to secure them with weights or combs to prevent them from blowing into your face or getting caught on surrounding foliage.

When choosing your veil, consider your hairstyle. A simple veil can be easier to pin securely if you have an intricate updo, while a longer veil may pair well with more voluminous or loose hairstyles. If you anticipate wind, adding combs, hair clips, or weights to the structure of your veil offers extra security.

Opt for colours that complement your dress. Classic white or ivory veils are always suitable, but you could also select a veil with subtle colour accents that match your bouquet or dress details. Keep in mind that in bright sunlight, sheer veils tend to look more elegant and light.

Picking the Perfect Hairpieces

Hairpieces can transform a simple hairstyle into a stunning bridal statement. For a beach wedding, natural-looking accessories that blend with your hair and surroundings work best.

Floral hairpieces or crowns are particularly popular on beaches. Fresh or faux flowers that match your bouquet add a cohesive, romantic charm. Consider placing a flower crown around your head or pinning small blossoms into a half-up, half-down hairstyle. These options are both relaxed and stylish.

For a more vintage or bohemian vibe, feathers or delicate hair vines with pearl or crystal accents are lovely. Hair vines can be woven into braids or wrapped around a bun, providing a whimsical yet elegant finish. Make sure any pins or clips used are sea-resistant to prevent corrosion or slipping if you are near saltwater.

In addition to floral and vine accessories, decorative hair combs with natural motifs or beaded details work well for securing loose hair or framing your face. If you’re choosing a fuller updo, adding a circlet or tiara with delicate details can create a regal look without feeling too formal for the beach.

Consider the overall style of your hair and dress when selecting hairpieces. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty and ensure everything stays in place through the breeze and eventual dancing. Using hair elastics, pins, or securing products can help keep your accessories secure all day long.

Practical Tips for Wearing Accessories on the Day

No matter what you choose, comfort and security come first. Test your shoes and accessories before the wedding day by trying them out for a while, preferably outdoors. This helps ensure they stay comfortably in place and allows you to make any adjustments.

Be mindful of the weather forecast. Windy days may require heavier pins or discreet weights to secure veils and hairpieces. If rain or humidity is forecasted, opt for waterproof or quick-drying materials, especially for flowers and hair accessories.

Having a small kit on hand with extra pins, clips, or small fixes can save the day if accessories slip or get knocked loose. Inform your stylist or maid-of-honour beforehand if you are planning to wear special pieces, so they can assist during the ceremony if needed.

Finally, choose accessories that reflect your personal style and make you feel comfortable. When you feel at ease with your look, it will shine through and contribute to a truly memorable occasion.