Crafting Wedding Headgear: A Step-By-Step Guide For Brides

Wedding headgear is an important part of bridal attire, and there are many options to choose from. From veils to headbands, combs, fascinators, hats, pins, and ribbons, the variety is endless. For those who want to forgo the traditional veil, there are plenty of alternatives to add a unique touch to your special day. This includes flower crowns, hair chains, tiaras, and hair vines. You can also opt for a more simple look with a bow or ribbon, or go for a bold statement with a bridal hat. The options are endless, and you can choose from a range of materials such as fabric, silk, satin, tulle, velvet, lace, or linen. Whether you're looking for something elegant, vintage, bohemian, rustic, or beachy, there is a wedding headgear option to suit your style.

Bridal headbands

When choosing a bridal headband, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, decide on your wedding hairstyle as the headband you choose should enhance your hairdo. If you plan to wear your hair loose and relaxed, a headband that sits behind your ears and goes halfway around your head is ideal. You should also consider your wedding dress and opt for a headband that complements its style. For example, a headband decorated with flowers and leaves would be perfect for a boho-style gown, while a pearl headband adds a timeless, elegant appeal to a traditional dress.

Colour is another important factor. While white, silver, and gold headbands are popular choices, you can also find headbands in hues such as rose gold, blush pink, and pale blue. Pick a shade that complements your hair colour and wedding dress.

If you want an eye-catching headband for your walk down the aisle, consider a bridal headband with a veil. You can choose a design with the veil attached to the back of the headband or opt for a headband with a birdcage veil at the front for a vintage-inspired look.

For a touch of sparkle and shine, crystal bridal headbands add glamour to your wedding style. You can go for a subtle shimmer with a thin headband studded with rhinestones or opt for wide-band designs encrusted with crystal beading for a bolder statement.

• A knotted headband looks polished over sleek hair.
• A headband with loose waves or a laid-back updo for a more relaxed hairstyle.
• A headband with flowers and leaves for a boho-style gown.
• A pearl headband for a timeless and elegant touch.
• A headband with a veil for a dramatic entrance.
• A crystal headband for a touch of sparkle.

With so many options available, you can easily find the perfect bridal headband to make a fashion statement on your special day.

Combs and crowns

To make a bridal hair comb, you will need a variety of materials, such as beads, pearls, crystals, and veils. Start by beading the headpiece, then add larger beads or pearls for a statement look. Finish off with crystal dots for extra sparkle. If you want to add a veil, use combs to hold the headpiece in place.

If you prefer a crown, there are many options to choose from, including statement designs embellished with Swarovski crystals, pearl-accented styles, or leaf and floral motifs. You can purchase a ready-made crown or make your own using materials such as zip ties, beads, and glue.

For a unique twist on the traditional crown, consider a flower crown, which has become increasingly popular for brides. Flower crowns can be made from fresh flowers or artificial flowers and can be tailored to the season and colour scheme of your wedding. They can also be used as an alternative to veils, headbands, or tiaras, and can be easily swapped in or out of your look.

Fascinators

To make your own fascinator, you will need a headband or a large metal barrette, some felt, scissors, a ruler, a pen, needle and thread, and a hot glue gun. You can then add decorations such as fringe, ribbon, mesh or tulle, feathers, silk flowers, beads, buttons, and other items.

First, cut out a circle of felt—3 to 5 inches in diameter. You can also cut the felt into a different shape, such as a teardrop, oval, triangle, square, or star. Sew a layer of mesh or tulle to the top of the felt circle, or hot glue a ring of feathers around it. You can also hot glue fringe around the edge of the felt circle to hide the raw edge.

Next, decorate the centre of your fascinator with silk flowers, beads, sequins, or gems. Finally, hot glue the bottom of the felt circle onto a headband or barrette.

Chains and trails

When creating bridal headgear with chains and trails, it's important to consider the overall theme and style of the wedding. For a vintage or Art Deco-inspired wedding, a bold, sparkling hair chain can be a stunning choice. It can be paired with a sleek updo or a side-swept hairstyle to showcase the chain's intricate details. For a more subtle approach, a delicate hair chain with fine links and small pendants can be selected, adding a touch of sparkle without overwhelming the overall look.

The length of the chain and the placement of the trails are also important considerations. Longer chains can be draped across the head, with trails framing the face or cascading down the back, especially if the hair is worn in an updo or a side bun. Shorter chains can be positioned on one side of the head, with trails adding interest and movement. The trails can be left loose or carefully pinned for a more secure fit.

When designing the chains and trails, various materials and embellishments can be used. Pearls, crystals, and delicate metal charms can enhance the bridal theme. Fresh or dried flowers can also be incorporated into the design, adding a romantic and natural touch. For a cohesive look, the chains and trails can be customised to complement the bride's jewellery, gown, and other accessories.

Tiaras

• Classic Updo: Opt for a sophisticated updo, such as a chignon or a bun, adorned with a delicate tiara. This style exudes elegance and pairs well with more traditional tiaras.
• Bohemian Waves: Embrace a boho-chic vibe with loose, flowing waves, complemented by a simple, understated tiara. This look is perfect for outdoor or beach weddings.
• Romantic Half-Up, Half-Down: This style combines the best of both worlds, with a tiara placed on the crown for a glamorous touch.
• Sleek and Straight: For a contemporary look, keep your hair sleek and straight, and pair it with a modern, minimalist tiara for a fashion-forward vibe.
• Messy Bun: A messy bun with volume and texture can be beautifully accentuated by a sparkling tiara. This style is relaxed yet elegant, making it ideal for a casual wedding theme.
• Braided Hairstyles: Incorporate braids, such as a crown braid or side braid, and finish with a tiara for a unique and enchanting look.
• Curly Locks: Embrace your natural curls or create soft, romantic curls, and pair them with a dainty tiara for a timeless, fairy-tale-like charm.
• Short Hair Glam: Short-haired brides can style their hair in soft waves or a sleek bob, adding a tiara for a touch of sophistication.

When choosing a tiara, it is important to consider its weight, as a heavier tiara may become uncomfortable over time. Opt for lighter materials if you plan to wear it all day. Additionally, don't compromise on quality; choose a well-crafted tiara made with better materials, which will be less likely to tangle in your hair or cause skin irritation.

Frequently asked questions