You’ve found the one—a casual wedding dress that feels effortlessly chic, light as air and completely true to your style. Whether you’re saying “I do” at a laid-back garden party, seaside ceremony or stylish city hall celebration, the right accessories can transform your look from simple to striking—while still keeping it authentically you.
At Essense Designs, our designer collections—Essense of Australia, Stella York, Martina Liana and All Who Wander—offer dreamy gowns (in sizes up to 34/36) that come to life with the perfect final touches. Let’s explore how to style your casual wedding dress with accessories that highlight your unique love story, venue and silhouette—with trend-forward ideas for 2025.
For gown inspiration, explore our guide: Best Casual Wedding Dresses for Every Bride in 2025
Why Accessories Matter for Casual Wedding Gowns
Casual wedding dresses are designed for movement, comfort and relaxed beauty. Their minimalist silhouettes and soft, breathable fabrics leave room for personality-packed details. The right accessory doesn’t overpower—it amplifies. Whether it’s a statement headpiece, vintage veil or sculptural earrings, accessories turn your dress into your bridal moment.
Think of it like this: Your gown is the canvas and your accessories are the brushstrokes that bring your wedding-day vision to life.
Accessorizing by Wedding Venue
Where you say “I do” helps shape how you accessorize. Let’s style your look based on the energy of your celebration:
Beach Wedding
Lean into organic textures and coastal charm:
- Try this: Pearl-drop hairpins, seashell anklets and a breezy tulle capelet.
- Styled with: All Who Wander’s remi gown, featuring ethereal balloon sleeves and barefoot-ready silhouette that’s a pure coastal dream.
Courthouse Ceremony
Modern city love calls for sleek sophistication:
- Try this: A structured fascinator, sculptural clutch and minimalist gold hoops.
- Styled with: Essense of Australia Style D3957, a short strapless mini wedding dress with detachable sleeves and overskirt, that features a softly scooped neckline to introduce the clean, modern aesthetic of this modern bridal look.
Garden or Backyard Wedding
Rustic meets romantic:
- Try this: A hand-woven floral crown, vine inspired hair comb or layered necklaces with botanical motifs.
- Styled with: Stella York Style 7492, an ethereal vision of delicate lace and airy tulle is the epitome of sophisticated bridal style.
Accessory Styling Tips for Plus-Size Brides
Accessories should enhance your natural beauty and work with your gown—not compete with it. Here’s how to create balance and highlight your favorite features:
Elongate the Neckline
- Try this: Long drop earrings or a single pendant that draws the eye upward.
- Best with: V-neckline or sweetheart gowns like Style D3636 from Essense of Australia.
Define the Waist
- Opt for a wide beaded belt or soft sash to accentuate your shape.
- Avoid skinny belts that disappear visually and lack definition.
Balance Proportions
- Medium-sized pieces (structured clutch, fingertip veil) complement curves without overpowering.
- Think in scale—statement pieces can still be intentional. not oversized.
Tip: Visit an Essense Designs retailer to try accessories in person with your gown—our stylists are pros at finding what works best for your silhouette.
Trending Bridal Accessories for 2025
Next year’s accessory trends are all about individuality, sustainability and versatility. Here’s what’s hot as well as timeless:
Boho Headpieces
- Think vine leaf crowns, celestial halos and dried floral clips.
- Ideal for ALL Who Wander brides look to add free-spirited flair.
Sustainable Jewelry
- Look for lab-grown diamonds, recycled gold chains and vintage finds.
- These not only reflect your values—they become future heirlooms.
Statement Shoes
- Metallic sandals, colored ballet flats or embroidered boots add comfort and character.
- Ideal for dancing into your forever in style.
Budget-Friendly Accessory Tips
You don’t need to spend a lot to create a meaningful, elevated look. Here’s how to style smart:
- DIY Floral Crowns: Use fresh blooms that match your bouquet or faux botanicals that last forever.
- Borrowed Heirlooms: A grandparent’s brooch or a mother’s bracelet adds story and sentiment.
- Minimalist Staples: Pearl studs, chain bracelets or a silk ribbon can be worn long after the big day.
Pro tip: Look for accessories that feel true to your everyday style but dialed up for your “I do” moment.
Let Your Style Shine
Your casual wedding dress is already a reflection of your personality—now it’s time to finish the look with accessories that feel just as you. Whether you’re drawn to bold accents or delicate details, our collections offer inclusive sizing and versatile styles to bring your vision to life.
When you accessorize your casual wedding dress with intention and joy, your whole look becomes more than just pretty—it becomes personal. From soft statement sleeves to sustainable sparkle, the right pieces tell your story. And with gowns by Essense of Australia, Stella York, Martina Liana and All Who Wander, you’re not just dressing for the moment—you’re dressing for the memory.
Ready to Explore Your Dream Bridal Look?
Visit an Essense Designs retailer to try on gowns and test accessories with expert guidance. Your dream look is waiting—and it’s more radiant than ever.