Wedding Accessories Around The World

Marriage is honored by numerous cultures around the world as a celebration of love and commitment. Wedding rings serve as a global symbol of love and unity, and jewelry, in general, plays a big part in the traditions and customs that surround this meaningful ceremony.

Without the addition of stunning jewelry, a wedding is incomplete in many cultures. Wedding bands and bridal jewelry come in a wide range of styles and are worn in numerous ways all over the world. Continue reading to discover meaningful bridal jewelry from around the world.

Wedding accessories can vary greatly depending on the culture and traditions of a particular region or country. Here are some examples of wedding accessories from around the world:

(1) India 

Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and the use of vibrant colors and ornate accessories. Here are some standard Indian wedding accessories: 

• Maang Tikka  

It is a traditional headpiece worn by the bride and consists of a chain or pendant that rests on the bride's forehead.

Image Source: Shaadi Dukaan

• Nose Ring

Nose rings, or "Nath" are essential to Indian bridal jewelry. They come in various designs and sizes and are usually made of gold and studded with precious stones.

Image Source: Weddingz.in

• Bangles  

Indian brides wear a set of bangles called "chooda" made of ivory, glass or metal, and are usually red and white in color.

Image Source: MyMandap

• Anklets  

Anklets, or "payals" are standard accessories worn by Indian brides. They are made of silver or gold and have small bells attached to them.

Image source: Shaadi Wish

• Toe Rings  

Toe rings, also known as "bichua," are worn by Indian brides on their second toe. They are usually made of silver and are believed to be auspicious.

Image source: PixelStory.in

• Mangalsutra  

It is a necklace that symbolizes the marriage bond between the bride and the groom. The Mangalsutra is made of black and gold beads and is tied around the bride's neck by the groom during the wedding ceremony.

• Waistband  

A waistband, or "kamarbandh," is worn by the bride around her waist. It is usually made of gold or silver and studded with precious stones.

Image source: Royal Pepper 

(2) China

Chinese weddings are rich in cultural traditions and symbolism. Here are some standard Chinese wedding accessories. 

• Double Happiness Symbol  

The Chinese character for "double happiness" is a famous symbol used in Chinese weddings. It is usually displayed on decorations, invitations, and wedding favors.

Image Source: East Meets Dress

• Wedding Attire  

The bride typically wears a red dress called a "qipao" or "cheongsam" that symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and happiness. The groom usually wears a black or blue suit with a red tie.

Image Source: East Meets Dress

• Phoenix Crown and Dragon and Phoenix Candlesticks  

The bride may wear a phoenix crown, which is a traditional headdress that symbolizes happiness and prosperity. The dragon and phoenix candlesticks are used in the wedding ceremony and represent the balance of yin and yang.

• Red Veil and Red Umbrella  

The bride wears a red veil, which the groom lifts during the wedding ceremony to reveal the bride's face. A red umbrella is also used during the wedding ceremony to protect the couple from evil spirits.

Image Source: East Meets Dress

• Tea Set  

A traditional Chinese tea set is used during the wedding ceremony to serve tea to the parents and elder relatives of the couple as a sign of respect and gratitude.

• Golden Pig Necklace

In Chinese culture, pigs are considered to represent fertility, prosperity, and abundance. Hence, a golden pig necklace is the most auspicious piece of jewelry for Chinese brides. This necklace often includes motifs of pigs, dragons, and phoenixes.

Image source: SCMP

(3) Japan

Japanese weddings are traditional and blend Shinto and Buddhist customs. Here are some standard Japanese wedding accessories. 

• Kimono 

The bride and groom wear traditional Japanese "kimono" clothing during the wedding ceremony. The bride wears a white kimono, which symbolizes purity, and a colorful silk outer robe called "uchikake." The groom wears a black kimono and a black jacket called "haori."

Image source: La-Vie Photography

• Tsunokakushi  

The tsunokakushi is a headdress worn by the bride that covers her head and symbolizes modesty and obedience.

Image Source: Lucky Rice Field

• Hakama  

The groom may wear a hakama, a wide-legged traditional pant worn over the kimono.

Image Source: DE & Co. Decolte Photography 

• Folding Fan  

The bride and groom exchange folding fans during the wedding ceremony. The fans symbolize the exchange of vows and represent the couple's commitment to each other.

Image Source

• Sensu

The sensu is a traditional Japanese fan that the bride uses during the wedding ceremony to cover her face.

• Obi  

The bride's kimono is tied with a wide belt called "obi," which is often made of silk and tied into an elaborate bow.

Image source: Japan Object Store

• Hikifurisode  

The hikifurisode is a kimono worn by unmarried women. The bride may wear this kimono during the reception to symbolize her transition to married life.

Image Source: DE & Co. Decolte Photography

• San-san-kudo  

The San-san-kudo is a traditional Japanese ceremony where the couple sips three cups of sake from three different-sized cups. This represents the couple's unity and sharing of joys and sorrows in their future together.

Image Source: Kimberly AH

(4) Nigeria

Nigerian weddings are known for their vibrant colors, rich cultural traditions, and elaborate accessories. Here are some popular Nigerian wedding accessories. 

• Gele 

This is a headwrap that is typically made from a length of fabric that is wrapped around the head in a specific way. Nigerian women often wear it as part of their traditional attire for weddings and other special occasions.

Image source: Modest Fashion Mall

• Beaded Jewelry

Beaded jewelry is a popular accessory for Nigerian weddings. These can include necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made from colorful beads and stones.

Image Source: Wedding Feferity

• Agbada

Agbada is a flowing robe worn by Nigerian men in traditional attire. It is often made from high-quality fabrics like brocade and may be embellished with embroidery or other decorative elements.

Image source: Pinterest

• Aso Oke  

Aso Oke is a fabric often used to make traditional Nigerian clothing. It is handwoven and may be made from cotton, silk, or a combination of both. It is often used to make outfits for the bride and groom.

Image source: BellaNaija Weddings

• Ipele  

Ipele is a shawl that Nigerian men wear as part of their traditional attire. It is often made from a matching fabric like the agbada and drapes over one shoulder.

• Fan  

Fans are an everyday accessory for Nigerian weddings, especially for the bride. They are often made from colorful fabrics and may be decorated with beads or other embellishments.

• Embroidered caps  

Embroidered caps are a popular accessory for Nigerian men. They may be made from various fabrics and are often embroidered with intricate designs.

(5) Scotland

Many Scottish wedding accessories can add a touch of tradition and culture to your special day. Here are a few examples. 

• Tartan sash or shawl

The bride can wear a tartan sash or shawl, representing her Scottish heritage.

Image source: Pinterest

• Kilt and sporran  

The groom and groomsmen can wear kilts, which are traditional Scottish attire. The sporran is a pouch that is worn around the waist and is a functional accessory that is used to hold personal items.

Image source: Hitched

• Scottish thistle  

The Scottish thistle is a national emblem of Scotland and is often incorporated into wedding décor and accessories.

• Quaich

The quaich is a traditional Scottish cup that is often used during wedding ceremonies to symbolize the sharing of a drink between the bride and groom.

Image Source: OFFICIANT ERIC

• Bagpipes

Bagpipes are a traditional Scottish instrument that can add a unique and memorable touch to your wedding ceremony or reception.

Image source: Manhattan Bride

• Celtic knotwork

Celtic knotwork is a popular design element in Scottish wedding accessories, such as jewelry, invitations, and décor. Celtic knotwork is also one of the Scottish wedding rituals that is celebrated beautifully.

Image source: Donegal Square

• Heather

Heather is a common flower in Scotland and can be used in wedding bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces.

(6) Mexico

A Mexican wedding is often a colorful and festive celebration that includes a number of traditional accessories. Here are some popular Mexican wedding accessories. 

• Sombrero

A sombrero is a traditional Mexican hat that the groom and groomsmen can wear.

Image Source: 100 Layer Cake

• Rebozo

A rebozo is a long, rectangular shawl that the bride can wear as a veil or a wrap.

• Mariachi band 

A traditional Mexican musical group can add a festive touch to the wedding ceremony or reception.

Image Source: Elena Damy

• Lazo

A lazo is a large rosary or garland that is placed around the shoulders of the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony to symbolize their unity.

Image source: Catholic Faith Store

• Mexican papel picado

Papel picado is a type of Mexican folk art that involves cutting intricate designs into tissue paper. These colorful paper banners can be used as wedding ceremonies or reception decorations.

Image source: Art Mexico

• Traditional dresses and suits

The bride and groom can wear traditional Mexican clothing, such as a colorful embroidered dress for the bride and a charro suit for the groom.

• Maracas

Maracas are a percussion instrument that is often used in Mexican music and can be handed out to guests as a fun wedding favor.

• Talavera pottery

Talavera pottery is a type of Mexican ceramic that is often brightly colored and intricately designed. It can be used as table decorations or wedding favors.

Wrap-Up

Weddings are the most precious and overwhelming turning points for both the bride and the groom. There are so many countries in this world, and every culture has its own unique wedding accessories and rituals with their own significance. Here in this blog, we covered just a few countries and their wedding accessory lists, but if you are looking for Indian wedding accessories, you have landed at the right blog post. At our Facet of Love store, you will find the best gold Mangalsutras that can be worn effortlessly daily.

FAQ's

(1) What are wedding accessories?

Answer: Wedding accessories refer to the additional items or embellishments that couples incorporate into their wedding attire, ceremony, or reception to enhance the overall aesthetic and cultural significance of the event. These accessories can include jewelry, headpieces, veils, shoes, gloves, sashes, and more.

(2) How do wedding accessories vary around the world?

Answer: Wedding accessories vary greatly across different cultures and regions. They can reflect traditional customs, religious beliefs, historical significance, and local fashion trends. From intricate henna designs in Indian weddings to the bridal hanbok in Korean ceremonies, each culture has its own unique set of accessories.

(3) What are some popular wedding accessories in Western weddings?

Answer: In Western weddings, common wedding accessories include a bridal veil, tiaras or hairpins, garters, bridal jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets), and bouquets. Brides may also wear special shoes, gloves, or sashes to complement their dress.

(4) What are traditional wedding accessories in Indian weddings?

Answer: Indian weddings are known for their elaborate and colorful accessories. Traditional Indian bridal accessories include a maang tikka (headpiece), nose ring, choker necklace, earrings, bangles, anklets, and toe rings. The bride's hands and feet are often adorned with intricate henna designs.

(5) What are some unique wedding accessories in Japanese weddings?

Answer: In Japanese weddings, brides often wear a traditional white kimono known as a "shiromuku." They accessorize with a "tsunokakushi" (headpiece to cover the topknot), "wataboshi" (white hood), and a white "tsunodashi" (veil). Additionally, brides may carry a "sensu" (folding fan) and wear "tabi" (traditional split-toe socks) with their sandals.

(6) What are notable wedding accessories in African weddings?

Answer: African weddings showcase a rich variety of accessories, varying by region and culture. In some African traditions, brides wear elaborately beaded headpieces, necklaces, and bracelets. Gele (headscarves) and gele pins are common in Nigerian weddings, while Zulu brides may wear "isicholo" (a hat-like headpiece) and "umqhele" (beaded crown).

(7) Are there any specific wedding accessories in Chinese weddings?

Answer: In Chinese weddings, red is considered an auspicious color symbolizing luck and joy. Brides often wear a "qipao" or "cheongsam" (traditional dress) in red or other vibrant colors. Traditional bridal accessories include phoenix crowns, hairpins adorned with pearls and jade, gold bracelets, and red veils.

(8) What are some popular wedding accessories in Middle Eastern weddings?

Answer: Middle Eastern weddings feature opulent accessories and intricate details. Brides may wear a "ghutra" (headdress), a "mahrabeya" (forehead jewelry), a "handira" (embroidered cape), and gold jewelry. Henna is also a significant accessory, applied on the hands and feet of the bride.