Choosing the right headwear can be a bit of a minefield, but don’t worry – we’re here to help! Whether you’re prepping for a wedding either a guest or as mother of the bride or mother of the groom, a garden party, or a day at the races, hats are the perfect way to finish off your look. The trick is knowing which hat suits the occasion, your outfit, and most importantly, you! So, grab a cuppa and join us for a run-through of the top 10 things to consider when picking out your perfect headwear.
1. Choose Your Hat Shopping Buddy Wisely
We all know that everyone has an opinion on what looks good, but when it comes to choosing a hat, it’s all about your opinion. Make sure the person you bring along is focused on helping you find something that suits you – not what they’d choose for themselves! Too many voices in your ear can leave you second-guessing yourself. Trust your instincts – if the hat makes you feel fab, go for it. After all, confidence is what makes any hat look its best!
2. Bring Your Outfit When Hat Shopping
This one’s a biggie! We get it – you want to match your hat to your outfit, but photos and tiny swatches can only do so much. You need to see the whole look together to truly know what works. After all, a hat isn’t just a random accessory you plonk on top of your dress – it’s part of a complete look! The right hat can pull everything together in a way you didn’t expect, so trust us, you’ll be glad you brought the whole ensemble.
3. Keep an Open Mind
As Brits, we’re not always used to wearing formal hats. And with the Royals often leading the charge, it’s easy to get stuck in a particular idea of what a hat should look like. But here’s the thing – what looks fabulous on one person might not be right for you. So, don’t judge a hat until you’ve tried it on! You might just surprise yourself. It’s all about how it makes you feel – you might discover a style you never considered that ends up being the one.
4. Learn How to Wear a Hat
We hear it all the time: “Hats don’t suit me!” But here’s the thing – hats are all about how you wear them. It’s not just about slapping something on your head and hoping for the best. Positioning is key, and even the most stunning hat will look off if it’s not worn correctly. When you shop with us, we’ll make sure you know exactly how to wear your hat so it flatters your face and complements your features. After all, we want you looking your absolute best!
5. Colour Matching (It’s Not All About Matching Exactly)
Here’s a little secret: matching your hat to your dress exactly isn’t always the best move. In fact, adding a pop of contrasting colour can make your outfit really stand out. Think of it this way – do you want your hat to be a hero piece, not just another matching accessory or do you want your dress to be the hero piece with a hat to compliment it but not distract from it. A splash of a different colour or metallic accents can elevate your whole look without taking attention away from your stunning outfit. If you’re not ready to go full contrast, maybe experiment with different shades of the same colour to add depth.
6. Accessories Matter (Yes, Even Shoes and Bags!)
It’s not just the hat that completes your outfit – shoes and bags play an important role too! Bright shoes can sometimes distract from the overall look by drawing the eye downwards, but with the right choice, they can tie everything together. As for handbags – while not strictly necessary, they can be the perfect prop for photos, plus they give you something to do with your hands if you’re a bit camera-shy. Just be sure to pick ones that complement your outfit and don’t compete with it.
7. Consider Your Skin Tone
Not all colours are created equal – especially when it comes to hats. The right colour can make your skin glow, while the wrong one might leave you looking a bit washed out. When choosing your hat, think about how the colour will interact with your face. A hat can truly bring your face to life if you pick a tone that suits you, so be sure to choose a shade that enhances your complexion and makes you feel fabulous!
8. Don’t Leave Your Hat to the Last Minute
Planning your outfit is a long process, and your hat deserves just as much attention. Don’t leave it until the last minute! A well-chosen hat will be the crowning glory of your look – it’ll complete your outfit and be the centre of attention in your photos. If you’re going for a bespoke piece, we recommend giving us 6-8 weeks’ lead time to ensure we can create something perfect just for you. And trust us – you’ll want your full outfit ready a couple of weeks before the event, so you can relax and enjoy the lead-up.
9. Think About the Event
Every event has its own vibe, and your hat should suit the occasion. For example, the perfect hat for a wedding might not be right for a day at the races or a garden party. It’s important to think about the dress code and how your hat will fit in with the theme of the event. You want to look amazing, but also feel comfortable and appropriate. Remember, it’s not just about looking good – it’s about feeling at ease in what you’re wearing!
10. Enjoy the Process!
At the end of the day, these events are about celebrating life’s big moments, and finding the right hat should be part of that fun! While it’s important to look polished, don’t let the process become stressful. Take your time, enjoy the journey, and most importantly, don’t forget to have a bit of fun with it! After all, it’s a celebration, and your hat should add to the joy and excitement!
There you go – a few tips to help you choose the perfect hat for your next big event. Remember, a hat is more than just an accessory – it’s a chance to express yourself and complete your look in a way that feels fantastic. So, trust your instincts, enjoy the process, and let your headwear be the cherry on top of your fabulous outfit!
So when you are ready, just book your appointment to come and see us and we will guide you through everything you need to know!