Wedding Hat Ettiquette - The Rules

The Royal Wedding is fast approaching, and you know what that means? Every 2018 Bridezilla will be upping their wedding game! In a recent survey the American public are most looking forward to seeing the Megan Markle's designer wedding gown and in a close second the wedding guests hats! With such public interest fashion insiders and trend predictors are putting money on the fact that hats are going to be a huge theme for guests at weddings for 2018/2019.

Doing it right though is a minefield of ettiquette, rules and steeped tradition, so here is what you need to know if you are planning on dressing head to toe for your bff's big day!

Size Matters

The mother of the groom should always choose a wedding hat smaller than the mother of the bride's. This is a set rule across all social situations that dictates that guests should never out-shine their hosts, so know your place!

What is a Fascinator?

basically it's a small headpiece that is generally worn on the right side of the head. It is often made from beads, ribbons and feathers and can be attached to headbands, combs, elastic or clips. If you are unsure of the size of your hosts hat but still want to make a big bold statement a fascinator is the way to go. Because it isn't classed as a full hat you can go big without breaking the rules!

The lady is always right!

When accessorising a hatband, or indeed your bridal headpiece, with flowers, feathers or any other embellishment, keep in mind that traditionally ladies decorate hats on the right hand side, the opposite to that of men who always stick to the left.

When to take it off

Did you know that it’s tradition for all female wedding guests not to remove their hat until the mother of the bride has? Usually the mother of the bride will do so after the speeches post wedding breakfast, but before sunset!

What time is the wedding?

The time of day you are wearing the hat should directly impact the choice of headwear. As a rule of thumb, the size of the hat should decrease as the day progresses. Large brims in the morning or evening are considered vulgar and extravagant as there’s no need for them when the sun isn’t out.

Tell your man

Make sure that your groom and groomsmen know their etiquette if they’re wearing top hats. As well as removing them when indoors, they should remove their hats whenever speaking to a lady – in particular their new mother-in-law. It’s a sign of respect that dates back generations.

A rule for gents in particular, it is considered rude to show the inside lining of your hat. When removing, tipping or doffing your hat, always ensure that only the outside is visible. If you remove your hat for any reason, hold it with the lining facing towards your torso.

THE ULTIMATE RULE

When wearing a hat you must be confident! there is a hat or fascinator for everyone. often we hear people say "I'm not a hat person!" Rubbish! you just have to find the best frame for you! Wearing a hat at a wedding is one of the most special things about the big day! When else do you have the opportunity to do so! Get Ahead, get a hat and strut your stuff with confidence!

And you thought you could just whip a quick flower in your hair and be good to go ?! Not so much!

Stay Fabulous!