
THE EDIT: WEDDING ATTIRE AND ACCESSORIES
From exquisite jewellery to sophisticated leather goods and elegant fashion accessories, discover everything you need to ensure the most stylish of weddings
The summer wedding season in full swing, and whether you are the happy couple, a bridesmaid, groomsman or a guest, you will find an extensive selection of exquisite accessories and gifts within The Royal Exchange boutiques. Discover our edit of luxury items guaranteed to add an extra sparkle to the special day.
SYMBOL OF INTENT
L-R: London ring featuring an asscher cut diamond of over two carats, set in platinum, ÂŁ60,000, Boodles; Pear Shape Diamond Engagement Ring 0.93ct, ÂŁ7,450, Vashi; Knife Edge Solitaire Ring in 18ct yellow gold, ÂŁ1,160, Vashi
Long before the big day, one of the most important decisions is selecting the perfect engagement ring to reflect your everlasting devotion. For those in search of something out of the ordinary, Boodles’ London ring is an ideal choice. From the brand’s recently released travel collection Around the World in 16 Days, the design is inspired by the structure of Tower Bridge, where strands of diamonds and dark blue enamel delicately intertwine to frame a spectacular asscher cut diamond of just over two carats.
Offering a minimalistic aesthetic is Vashi’s Knife Edge Solitaire Ring with an elegant 0.3 carat round brilliant diamond displayed on a classic yellow gold band.
And, for maximum sparkle, look no further than Royal Exchange Jewellers’ Pear Shape Diamond Engagement ring. This timeless yet striking design features a pear-shaped diamond set in a handmade, platinum diamond halo mount.
CIRCLE OF COMMITMENT
Clockwise from top left: Flat-shape plain wedding band in 18kt yellow gold, 5mm, ÂŁ550, Vashi; Classic Milgrain Wedding Band Ring, ÂŁ1,425, Tiffany & Co.; Fusion 2piece Ring in 18ct white gold, from ÂŁ4,575, Georg Jensen; Harmony Half Hoop Rose Gold Pink Diamond Wedding Band, ÂŁ4,400, Boodles
As a symbol of a beautiful and committed union, wedding bands are made to last forever. Tiffany’s two-tone Classic Milgrain Wedding Band Ring in platinum and yellow gold features textured edges that give it a contemporary aesthetic. The jeweller also offers complimentary engraving for a truly personal touch.
If you prefer a classic pared-back style then the simplicity of Vashi’s made-to-order Flat Shape Wedding Band is ideal. Its clean lines make it an understated yet refined choice, and you can choose from a number of finishes, including polished, brushed or hammered.
Adding an extra special flair to the traditional wedding band, Georg Jensen’s interlocking Fusion 2piece ring can be worn as one or two pieces, enabling one piece to be worn by your other half –either as their own wedding band, on another finger or added to a chain as a pendant. It can also be matched with other pieces from the Fusion collection, should you wish to try out a different look, or add pieces to symbolise milestones in your relationship.
Boodles is renowned for its rare stones and unique jewellery designs, and its rose gold wedding band set with approximately 0.20 carat of pink round-brilliant cut diamonds makes a suitably sparkling companion to any dazzling engagement ring.
TO HAVE AND TO HOLD
L-R: Hat Box in Ivory Patent Croc, £495, Aspinal of London; Clic-H 33 bag, £5,480, Hermès; Blush Patent Betty Bag, £189, SageBrown
Every maid of honour needs a bag to hold essential items that the bride may need throughout the day, including make-up for touch-ups, hair grips and safety pins, a phone, purse and tissues.
Aspinal of London’s Hat Box in Ivory Patent Croc is a versatile, vintage-inspired bag that will complement all manner of dresses and can be carried by its elegant top handle or worn over the shoulder using the detachable strap.
Alternatively, SageBrown’s Blush Patent Betty Bag is an ideal wedding day companion. Handmade in colourful calf leather with a patent high-gloss finish, it has a luxurious suede lining and space for all the essentials.
For a sleek and slimline look, the Clic-H 33 Bag from Hermès – named after its unique, hidden fastening – has a convenient detachable strap that allows it to be carried on the shoulder or transformed into a pouch.
ONLY THE BEST
L-R: Peak lapel double-breasted waistcoat, £135, Sirplus; 7 Maillons 3D tie in orange/ciel, £175 Hermès; Sandahl Col.1887 sunglasses, £295, Tom Davies
Taking on the role of best man is a big responsibility, with lots of guest interaction and attention. Help your chosen wingman to be on top form with a stylish outfit that exudes character and style. A waistcoat adds a distinguished flair to any best man’s attire and Sirplus offer a number of options in a charming array of pastel and neutral fabrics, such as this pale pink linen finished with mother of pearl buttons.
A hand-sewn silk tie from Hermès’s vast collection is the perfect pairing – a subtle print in a complementary shade will add texture and detail to his outfit.
And if it’s likely your best man will be feeling nervous ahead of his speech, why not gift him a pair of Tom Davies shades to hide behind, and help him to give off the impression that he is effortlessly cool and in control.
PRETTY AS A PICTURE
L-R: Signature Shield Scarf in nude pure silk, £140, Aspinal of London; En Attendant Ulysse Shawl 140, £890, Hermès
As a key part of the wedding party, the mother of the bride’s outfit is also in the spotlight at weddings. Some carefully selected accessories, such as a chic scarf, are a great way to add panache to an ensemble, and will come in handy for dabbing away any tears of joy during the ceremony.
Aspinal of London’s Signature Shield Scarf is handcrafted from fine Italian silk twill and finished with finely rolled hand-stitched edges. It comes in a range of colourways, but this neutral option will complement most outfits. With the option to add personalised embroidery, it can also make the ideal gift and a memento of the special day.
Hermès is renowned for its silk print scarves, with a vast selection to choose from. This giant scarf in cashmere and silk was designed by Florence Manlik and inspired by European folklore and the motifs of its traditional costumes. Its generous size means it can be worn in a number of ways, including draped around the shoulders as a stylish layer for added warmth.
BE UPSTANDING
Clockwise from left: Cowes double monk strap, £720, Church’s; Egerton in Tan Antique Calf, £595, Crockett and Jones; Ella ballet flats in salmon pink, £229, Pretty Ballerinas
From the ceremony to the reception, elegant yet comfortable footwear is a must for lasting the day (and night) on your feet. Crockett & Jones’s polished Egerton Oxford shoe is handmade using the finest tan antique calf leather with bark tanned single leather soles, and pairs perfectly with a cream or light-coloured suit.
For a slightly more relaxed aesthetic, opt for Church’s double monk strap shoe, which will keep your look sharp whether you decide to choose a classic three-piece suit or tailored separates.
For ladies who prefer flats over heels, Pretty Ballerina’s Ella style in salmon pink combines beauty with comfort, featuring an elegant pointed toe, matching coloured trim and bow and a leather sole.
TIME FLIES
L-R: Rolex Datejust Lady, ÂŁ5,500, Watchfinder & Co.; De Ville Tresor Quartz 36mm, ÂŁ8,060, Omega; Hawking in white gold, ÂŁ18,995, Bremont
Sharing a gift that can be treasured forever with your beloved ahead of your big day is something many couples like to do. These timepieces are an ideal choice; elegant enough to be worn with your wedding attire, designed to last a lifetime.
Bremont’s men’s Limited Edition Hawking watch – named for the late Professor Stephen Hawking – is inspired by the great physicist’s A Brief History of Time book and features a retrograde seconds hand and four wooden discs from Hawking’s own desk inlaid into the back of the watch.
Omega’s De Ville Trèsor wristwatch is perfect for complementing a wedding dress. Crafted from Moonshine gold on a pure white rubber strap, the timepiece is embellished with 38 diamonds, which add a touch of the extraordinary.
There is something particularly enchanting about a vintage timepiece, and Watchfinder & Co. has a wide selection to choose from, such as this rare pre-loved Rolex Datejust Lady. Featuring a feminine pink dial inside a steel and white gold case, this is a piece to treasure before handing down to the next generation.
SPECIAL THANKS
Heart Tag bracelet in 18ct yellow gold, medium, ÂŁ3775, Tiffany & Co.; Mara Compact Purse in red, ÂŁ235, Smythson; Heart Shape Tourmaline Pendant, ÂŁ4,250, Royal Exchange Jewellers
It’s tradition to thank bridesmaids for the important role they play before and during the wedding day, with a gift of appreciation that also serves as a heart-warming memento of the occasion.
This heart shaped tourmaline and diamond pendant from Royal Exchange Jewellers is a piece to be treasured forever that will always remind the wearer of the special day.
Likewise, Tiffany & Co.’s Return to Tiffany Heart Tag charm bracelet is an enduringly popular design, inspired by the iconic Tiffany keyring first introduced in 1969.
Alternatively, beautifully crafted leather goods, such as a Smythson purse, also make for thoughtful gifts, and can be personalised with initials or motifs for an extra touch.
RIGHT HAND MAN
Clockwise from left: Autumn Landscape Agate cufflinks in rhodium-plated sterling silver (Limited Edition), £845, Tateossian; Limited Edition Meisterstück Around the World in 80 Days Doué Classique Ballpoint Pen, £735, Montblanc; Classic 5oz Leather Hip Flask in cognac, £49, Aspinal of London
Show your groomsmen how grateful you are with a fitting token of thanks, such as these limited edition cufflinks from Tateossian, which feature naturally unique agate stones.
Or perhaps he would prefer a traditional Montblanc MeisterstĂĽck writing instrument that he can treasure forever. This particular model is a limited edition ballpoint, inspired by the novel Around the World in 80 Days, but there are designs to suit all tastes and interests.
For those who will appreciate having their favourite tipple to hand, Aspinal of London’s leather encased hip flask is perfectly sized for slipping into a pocket, and can be engraved with initials for a personal touch.
GIVEN WITH LOVE
L-R: Panama Bouji Photo Album in chalk, ÂŁ185, Smythson; HK Pitcher 1.9L, ÂŁ325, Georg Jensen; Wedding Breakfast Blend tea, 250g Loose Leaf Caddy, ÂŁ12.95, Fortnum & Mason
Deciding on the perfect gift for the happy couple is no easy task. However, Smythson’s luxurious calf leather photograph album will enable the most magical moments and memories from the day to be cherished forever, and it can be embossed with initials and the wedding date for a special touch.
If homeware is on the couple’s wish list then Georg Jensen’s sleek and slender steel pitcher will make an aesthetically pleasing addition to any home. Conceived by sculptor Henning Koppel, it holds up to 1.9 litres and is ideal for serving water – or wine – or as a striking vase for flowers.
If a small yet thoughtful present is more appropriate then you can’t go wrong with Fortnum & Mason’s Wedding Breakfast Blend tea. It was first created to mark the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011 and is made with tea from Kenya, which is where the Duke proposed.
All items are available to purchase from The Royal Exchange
The Royal Exchange celebrates its 450th anniversary this year. We look forward to welcoming you for a considered shopping and dining experience in spectacular and historic surroundings. Please visit our boutiques page for regular updates on our retailers’ opening information and hours, as well as details about virtual appointments and click and collect services.
Visit our heritage page to learn more about the history of The Royal Exchange, and keep an eye on our specially created 450 Years site, journal and Instagram for more fascinating facts and insights about The Royal Exchange’s past and present as we commemorate this special milestone throughout the year.