If you consult wedding planning books, according to statistics it is recommended to allot 10% of the total budget to the wedding outfit. Most of the time when the bride already has chosen a wedding gown their budget is already at the 10% mark not including the accessories for the bridal ensemble. But no worries. Here are some tips on how to find affordable wedding accessories so you can complete your look even on a tight budget.

If you are just patient enough and you know where to look, you might be surprised to find out that there are many affordable wedding accessories that are affordable but looks elegant and expensive. If you are the type that loves diamonds, its glitter and sparkle, you can opt for handmade Swarovski crystal bridal jewellery set in sterling silver. You can still get that dramatic effect without spending a lot of money. Large earrings like crystal dangling earrings will also elicit the same effect at a cheaper price. It’s not what you where but how you wear it that’s important. Crystal dangling earrings are a scene stealer especially if the bride’s hair is pulled back, and with a strapless bridal gown.

If you are one who prefers the classic look, instead of buying natural pearls you can opt for fresh water rice pearls. They will look just as endearing as the more expensive Akoya pearls. A tin cup or floating pearl necklace can be used in place of a strand of pearls at a much affordable cost and produces the same effect. A single drop pearl pendant will look elegant in a V-neck bridal gown and there are pieces set in silver that are much cheaper. Some come in one complete set with matching earrings already. You will be surprised that you can add a pearl bracelet to the set too. There are a lot of choices available on the internet which you could look into.

Now, let’s talk about Shoes. One way to find a smashing deal on your wedding shoes is to shop at department store outlets. Sometimes there are designer shoes available at a discounted price. If you are one of those brides who likes to go for a flashy unconventional look, there are plenty of dressy silver, gold, other colourful evening shoes available. The stores which you can visit are Off Fifth (the Saks Fifth Avenue outlet) or Nordstrom Rack for affordable discounted shoes. You can always leave your eyes open for a beaded clutch for your wedding too. Good news is that these stores offer online shopping also.

They already have websites that have their catalogues. You can check out a site like 6pm.com. It offers a lot of deals on shoes. It would save a lot of time on your part if you start looking early so that if there are planned store sale you can participate in it and get a good bargain.

Wedding accessories doesn’t have to be new all the time. You know the famous saying, "something borrowed, something old, something blue" for good luck? Maybe you have friends or relatives who had been married before you. You can borrow their accessories if their theme matches yours.

Brides sometimes prefer to have a wrap especially if it is an evening wedding just in case it’s a bit cold in the reception this is especially true if your wedding falls on the winter season. Instead of buying a new one, you can search your closet for a pashmina or other dressy wrap. Almost everyone have one in their possession. If you really don’t have one, you can borrow from a friend or relative. It doesn’t necessary have to be white. It could be a great accent to your gown if your wrap can be one that follows your wedding theme.

Another excellent way to find affordable wedding accessories is not to limit yourself on bridal stores only. Bridal stores may have all the complete bridal accessories all in place but most of the items cost a lot. You can visit a shop that creates handcrafted crystal and pearl accessories for your bridal ensemble or you could hit the end-if-season clearance sale of your favourite boutiques. You might even be able to find a great deal not only on your bridal accessories but also for your wedding shoes. Remember, there are a lot of options available for you to choose from and most of them can save you a great deal of money.