Any good Southern gal knows how to put together a memorable look, and a wedding ensemble is no different. But even if you weren’t raised as a debutante, fear not. There are key pieces to know when creating a look full of southern charm—flowers, bows, lace, and statement sleeves being a few. We break down what exactly to look for when deciding on your day-of dress, plus a few accessories from our favorite local boutiques. Let these statement-making gowns and eye-catching accessories inspire your own day-of ensemble.

Southern Staples

These four elements separate the everyday dresses from the Southern showstoppers.

Gowns

Accessories

High (Heel) Society

From left: “Signature Slipper” ($595/Hadleigh’s); Malone Souliers “Maureen” mule ($795/Tootsies); Alaïa heart mules ($1,170/The Conservatory); Bruno Frisoni “Pointy Tonic” slingback heel ($1,030/The Conservatory) 

All Gussied Up

From left: Iradj Moini bug brooch ($2,065/Grange Hall); Deepa Gurnani earrings ($450/Elements); Melanie Georgacopoulos earrings ($5,360/Grange Hall); Nicola Bathie earrings ($350/Elements) 

Purse Strings

From left: La Pima “Marie” sunglasses ($535/Grange Hall); Alaïa “Mina” bag ($1,650/The Conservatory); Zhuu pearl bag ($175/Elements)

Higher the Hair

Clockwise from top: “Betty” hair clip ($250/Patsy’s Bridal); “Penelope” hair bow ($80/Patsy’s Bridal); “Mediterranean” tiara ($475/Patsy’s Bridal); Gabrielle Jewelry “Mason” hairpiece ($1,100/Lela Rose); silk magnolia brooch ($75/Lele Sadoughi)

Find more Southern inspiration here!

Local Florists Share Three Keys to Achieving a Southern-Style Bouquet

Check Out These Southern-Style Rentals from Local Companies

Local Caterers Create Modern Spins on Classic Southern Fare

We Love These Downright Down-Home Southern Touches from Real Local Weddings