Claudia Bradby knows her jewellery: after all, if the likes of Kate Middleton wear her designs, then she must be doing something right! Claudia’s ultimate ambition is to encourage women to build up their jewellery collection as they would their clothes, and now (perhaps after her attendance at the Royal Wedding), she’s provided us with her top eight tips for wedding jewellery:

“Jewellery is there to embellish,” says Claudia, “not to be the main feature.” Let you and your dress take centre stage; your jewellery should be the perfect complement rather than screaming, ‘centre of attention’.

Jewellery is so much more meaningful when it has a history behind it. Tell a story with your gems – Claudia recommends, “something ‘borrowed’ with family history, or bought from a place with meaning.”

“Do consider whether you’ll wear the jewellery again when you make your decision,” advises Claudia. Remember: weddings are expensive, so pick designs that’ll last a lifetime, like your marriage. They’ll also “bring back lovely memories” of your wedding day when you wear them again.

Pick pieces that will dazzle on your wedding day and work hard for the honeymoon, too. Something classic, such as “a single long necklace, or a pair of gold earrings, will dress you up and take you anywhere.”

“Do invest in a small jewellery roll,” Claudia suggests. Compact enough to fit in your shoebox, this accessory is “invaluable for travel and will really set your mind at ease,” – no more nightmares about misplacing one half of your favourite pair of earrings!

You run through your wedding service, so why not run through your wedding style, too? “Have a final try-on,” says Claudia. This way, you’ll feel confident that your ensemble works well together when you finally walk down the aisle.

It all began with a ring…after the big day is over with, say ‘thank you’ the same way you said, ‘I do’ – with jewellery! Giving a wearable keepsake to your maids will hold sentimental value for years to come, and best of all, ‘doesn’t need to cost a fortune.’ Claudia’s recommendations? “Our plain pearl bracelets, and maybe a charm, are perfect and much sought after bridesmaid’s gifts.”

Remember not to go over the top on your big day. “Most brides wear at least a pair of earrings. If the earrings are very ornate, be careful not to overdo it with a complicated necklace.” Keep it understated and you’re sure to shine – just the way you should.

Browse Claudia’s collections at claudiabradby.com – we particularly love the new Heritage collection, a right regal goldmine of wedding-worthy pearls and crown charms. The collection also includes pendants co-designed by Catherine herself! We say, “Yes, your majesty!”

By Alexandra Davey