Chances are, you’ll never put as much thought into accessories as you will when picking and choosing the right ones for your wedding day. But how much is too much? And, more importantly, what do you really need to perfect your wedding ensemble?

Of course, one bride’s dream accessory is another bride’s nightmare. It’s safe to say that everyone has their own preferences. However, there are some wedding accessories that many brides can’t live without. If you’re looking to accessorize for your wedding day, consider these popular options.

Shoes

Long gone are the days when you just had to have plain solid white heels. Today, in terms of wedding shoes, anything goes!

Your shoes are the perfect accessory in that they help describe who you are as a person. Are you all about sleek style? Maybe a pair of sky-high pumps in blue or pink are in order. Brides who’d rather be at a music festival than a chic soiree may prefer ballet flats, simple sandals or even their favorite pair of Toms.

Choose shoes that both match your dress, but that also speak to who you are as a person. Now, let’s get some shoes!

Jewelry

Many brides choose to have their hair pulled back and away from their face for their wedding day, and in these cases, earrings are a must. They help add a “wow factor” and draw attention upwards to your beautiful face.

Likewise, a simple necklace accentuates the neckline of your dress. For strapless dresses, you can’t go wrong with a choker. While sweetheart and V-necks call for slim pendants.

Last, but certainly not least, don’t forget about your rings. You’ll be adding a new one to your hand, so consider how you’ll arrange your wedding band with your engagement ring.

Shawl

When rain, snow, or plain old cold weather are in the forecast, start checking out your shawl options. You’ll be amazed at the large selection of shawls out there to match every color scheme and wedding dress. Whether you’re interested in faux fur, lace, or cashmere, a simple online search is bound to provide you exactly what you’re looking for.

If you have a little extra in the budget, why not treat your bridesmaids to matching shawls?

Hair Pieces

Hair pieces are something every bride will consider at one time or another. Do you go with a flower, rhinestones or a little of both? Plus, how does the veil fit into the picture?

Even the most casual bride will sometimes go for a cathedral length veil and, at the same time, traditional brides may forgo a veil in exchange for a beautiful statement piece.

When push comes to shove, it’s your day, so go with what you want and don’t let anyone stop you!

Garter

The last thing you want to overlook is the garter because it’s probably the most fun accessory you’ll wear with (or should I say, under) your gown. Bridal stores carry a small selection of garters, but don’t be afraid to do some online shopping to find one that both you and your spouse will appreciate.

You’re likely to find garters featuring your hubby-to-be’s favorite sports teams, or personalized embroidered ones on sites like ETSY.com.

Sash

A newer trend that many brides are loving is the dress sash. Sashes help to accentuate your waistline and also the dress. A simple dress may benefit from a sash with some embellishments like rhinestones and sequins, whereas a sash in a single color can help relax a busier dress.

Whether you choose lace, leather, satin ribbon, beads, sparkles, or all of the above, know that with a sash, you really can’t go wrong.

Finding the right accessory balance is key in helping to put your wedding ensemble together. So sit back, close your eyes, and imagine what you want to look like on your big day. Once you have a plan, it’s time to get shopping!

And after all’s said and done, know you’re going to look absolutely stunning. There’s no doubt about that!