The Latest Trend in Bridal Fashion
Ever watch those Hollywood starlets stroll down the red carpet wearing jewelry so fabulous it really does make them seem ethereal? On your wedding day, you too can wow the crowd with a to-die-for diamond necklace, a dazzling gold bracelet, or maybe some emerald earrings as stunning as you are. If you’re worried that expensive pieces are not in your budget, you should know that it’s not in theirs either.
Just as movie stars “borrow” jewelry for the night (they don’t get to keep the stuff), starry-eyed brides can rent pieces for the ceremony. More jewelry stores are offering this option to make the bride feel pampered and look glorious in photos, at a fraction of the price.
“In this economy, renting jewelry makes sense,” says Theresa Turchin, of Turchin Love & Light in Miami. “You can wear a $10,000 necklace, and no one needs to know it’s not yours.”
If you invest in rented jewelry, you’ll generally be charged 10% of the retail price, which means a $3,000 bracelet would be a very affordable $300. The store will charge your credit card the retail price (“You can’t let someone walk out the door with the store’s merchandise; it would be like letting them take a car without paying,” says Turchin). When you return the jewelry, you’re charged only for the rental price.
If you’re not sure what accessories you want, Turchin suggests bringing in other wedding jewelry to the store. This is especially important if you’re set on wearing Mom’s gold bracelet, and want something that matches. “There are different colors of gold, and different types,” says Turchin. “Unless you have an amazing eye for jewelry, get help from a professional; otherwise, your pieces might clash.”
Protecting the rented jewelry is also a must. Once your wedding photos have been taken, and you’ve mingled with the guests, it’s a good idea to put the pieces away in a hotel safe or other designated area. Have your Maid of Honor or another wedding-party member be in charge of the jewelry. If you’re ready to dance and party, she should be there to collect it from you. “As hard as they are, diamonds can crack,” says Turchin.
Even if your affair is rather subdued and formal, there’s still a time limit for your Cinderella look—namely, the wedding night. “Always take the jewelry off before you and your husband open the champagne.” Then look forward to a lifetime of dazzling photographs and memories.
-David Toussaint
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