Crafting Wedding Hats: A Guide For Ladies

Wedding hats are back in fashion, and they're no longer the exclusive accessory of royalty or the mothers of the bride and groom. As a wedding guest, you can stand out from the crowd by making your own hat.

If you're feeling creative, you can design a hat that suits your face shape, wedding hairstyle, and eye colour. For instance, if you have dark hair, opt for bright colours rather than dark fabrics, which will blend into your hair. Those with very fair hair should avoid pale colours, unless you're the bride, in which case, embrace your big day and wear that ivory headpiece with pride!

If you have a square jawline, opt for softer lines to complement your defined features, and if you have a round face, experiment with sharp angles and slants. Asymmetrical designs are always flattering, and if you have an oval face, you can let your creativity run wild as most styles will suit you.

When it comes to materials, don't go overboard. A couple of feathers, some beading, or structured sinamay can be really effective. You can also add a personal brooch for an individual touch.

So, whether you're a guest, the mother of the bride or groom, or even the bride yourself, why not try making your own wedding hat? It's a great way to express your creativity and add a unique touch to your wedding outfit.

Choosing the right materials

Colour and Fabric Choice

Firstly, consider the colour of your hat. If you have dark hair, avoid choosing dark-coloured bases and fabrics as they will blend into your hair. Instead, opt for bright and bold colours that will stand out. Conversely, if you have very fair hair, steer clear of pale colours, unless you are the bride, in which case, a delicate ivory headpiece is a perfect choice. Additionally, if you have an oval face, almost any style of hat will suit you, so feel free to experiment with different colours and fabrics.

Face Shape and Design

The shape of your face will play a crucial role in determining the design of your hat. For those with a square jawline, softer lines will elegantly complement your defined features. On the other hand, if you have a round face, you can have fun with sharp angles and slants in your hat design. Asymmetrical designs are universally flattering, so don't be too concerned about creating a perfectly symmetrical headpiece.

Materials and Embellishments

When it comes to materials, exercise restraint. A few carefully chosen embellishments, such as feathers, beading, or sinamay, can create a stunning effect without overwhelming your creation. Sinamay, a fabric made of woven fibres, is an excellent choice as it holds its shape well and can be moulded into various designs. You can also add ribbons, artificial flowers, combs, or bases to enhance your hat's overall appearance. However, remember that less is more, and too much of one element can detract from the elegance of your hat.

Hat Style and Occasion

Finally, consider the style of hat that will best suit the occasion. If you are a guest, floppy hats, panamas, boaters, or cloche hats are excellent choices that will help you stand out without upstaging the bride. Bibi hats, which partially cover the head and are often secured with barrettes or headbands, are also a more subtle option that complements most face shapes and hairstyles.

For a royal wedding, extravagant and exuberant hats are often expected, but be mindful of the guests' sightlines and avoid overly large brims. If you are the mother of the bride or groom, a simple headpiece in a tone that flatters your dress and the wedding colour scheme is usually more appropriate than an elaborate hat.

Design considerations

When designing a wedding hat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to create a design that complements the wearer's face shape, hairstyle, and eye colour. For instance, individuals with dark hair should opt for bright colours rather than dark bases and fabrics, which can blend into their locks. Similarly, those with very fair hair should steer clear of pale colours, unless they are the bride, in which case, a delicate ivory-coloured headpiece can be a perfect choice.

For those with a square jawline, softer lines can help balance the defined features, while individuals with round faces can experiment with sharp angles and slants. Asymmetrical designs are generally the most flattering, and it is not necessary to strive for perfect proportions. If the wearer has an oval face, almost any style of hat can work.

The choice of materials is another key consideration. A successful wedding hat should incorporate a subtle mix of materials, such as feathers, beading, or structured sinamay, a fabric of woven fibres that can be shaped into various forms. It is important not to go overboard with any one material, as this can detract from the overall aesthetic. Ribbons, artificial flowers, combs, and bases are just a few of the many options available to complement your design.

When designing a wedding hat, it is also crucial to keep in mind the occasion and the wearer's role in the wedding. While guests can afford to be more adventurous with their headwear, the mother of the bride or groom should avoid anything too extravagant that might overshadow the bride. Simple headpieces in flattering tones that complement the wedding colour scheme are often a better choice. Additionally, the hat should not obstruct the view of other guests and should be secure and comfortable enough to be worn throughout the day.

Finally, consider the overall wedding theme and the wearer's outfit and accessories. For a flashy dress and bold accessories, opt for a hat in neutral colours like beige or grey. A straw hat, such as a fedora or a boater, can add a summery touch, especially when paired with a warm-coloured braid. For a more elegant and understated look, a black felt hat, such as a floppy or fedora style, is a safe choice. However, if the wearer wants to stand out, a sophisticated hat with large brims and unique patterns can make a statement. Just remember to balance it with a classical and timeless outfit to avoid looking like a clown.

Hat-making parties

Planning a hat-making party is a fun and creative way to celebrate a wedding with friends. Here are some steps to help you organize a memorable hat-making party:

Choose a Venue and Send Invitations:

Select a venue that can accommodate your guest list and has enough space for hat-making activities. Consider the number of people you plan to invite and send out invitations with all the necessary details, including the date, time, and location.

Gather Hat-Making Supplies:

Before the party, ensure you have all the necessary supplies for your guests to design and create their hats. Some essential materials include:

• Cardstock paper in various colors
• Scissors
• Glue or glue sticks
• String or elastic
• Decorative items such as glitter, jewels, feathers, ribbons, charms, and fabric

Prepare Workstations:

Set up individual or group workstations with all the necessary tools and materials. Provide a variety of templates or examples of different hat styles to inspire your guests.

Instruction and Assistance:

During the party, provide clear instructions on the hat-making process, including cutting, shaping, and decorating the hats. Consider having one or two experienced individuals to assist your guests with their creations, especially if complex techniques are involved.

Refreshments and Entertainment:

Offer a variety of refreshments and snacks to keep your guests energized and engaged. You can also incorporate games or icebreakers related to the theme of the party to make it more interactive and fun.

Clean-up and Display:

Have a plan for cleaning up after the hat-making activities, providing trash bins and wipes for easy disposal of any mess. Finally, create a fun display area where guests can show off their unique creations, and don't forget to take lots of pictures!

By following these steps, you'll be able to host a hat-making party that is both enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved.

Etiquette for Mother of the Bride/Groom

Wedding hats for women are a great way to make an impression and elevate your outfit. They can be lavish, sleek, classic, or colourful. A well-selected wedding hat can make an outfit more festive, and add a touch of vintage or chic style.

Pre-Wedding

As the mother of the groom, you will likely be involved in the planning process, so it's important to be aware of the dos and don'ts of wedding planning. While traditions are shifting, it is usually the bride's parents who host the engagement party, but if they are not local, the groom's family can step in. It is also traditional for the groom's family to host the rehearsal dinner, but this is changing, too, with couples often paying for their own weddings.

Dress Code

The mother of the groom should wear an outfit that fits the wedding theme and makes her feel stylish and comfortable. The mother of the bride usually chooses her outfit first and then informs the mother of the groom of her choice so that the two outfits can be coordinated. The mother of the groom should avoid wearing white, unless specifically approved by the bride.

Guest List

If you are helping to plan or pay for the wedding, you should get a say on the guest list. It is good etiquette to politely ask how many guests you are permitted to invite.

Bachelorette Party

There is no official mother-of-the-groom etiquette regarding bachelorette parties, but these events are usually a no-parents zone.

Wedding Day

If there is a receiving line, the mother of the groom should be in attendance, and she may also be expected to take part in the mother-son dance. The mother of the groom also usually gives a speech at the wedding reception or the rehearsal dinner.

Other Responsibilities

The mother of the groom can be involved in various other ways, including attending vendor meetings or dress fittings, helping to collect guest addresses and RSVPs, suggesting traditions for the ceremony, and offering financial support.

Matching your hat to your outfit

When it comes to matching your wedding hat to your outfit, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the season and weather will play a role in the style and material of the hat you choose. For example, in winter, wool hats in neutral colours like brown, black and grey will keep you warm and stylish. In summer, a light and breathable straw hat will protect you from the sun while adding a touch of elegance to your look.

Secondly, the level of formality of the wedding should be taken into account. For a beach wedding, a casual and floppy sun hat can be a great choice, while for a royal-inspired affair, a fascinator or woven round crown can add a touch of sophistication. If you're attending as a guest, it's important to avoid hat styles that may draw too much attention unless the dress code or cultural attire calls for it.

Thirdly, you can match the colour of your hat to your outfit. A monochromatic look, where your hat matches your jacket, can be very chic. Alternatively, you can experiment with contrasting colours to make your outfit pop. For example, pairing a bright-coloured hat with a neutral-coloured straw hat in the summer can create a fun and stylish look.

Lastly, don't be afraid to get creative and wear what makes you feel beautiful. A hat is a fun accessory that can add a unique touch to your wedding outfit. Whether you choose a classic fedora, a vintage-inspired boater, or a wide-brimmed sun hat, remember to have fun with it!

Frequently asked questions