Creating Wedding Tiaras And Headbands: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding tiaras and headbands are a popular way to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to a bridal look, creating a stunning focal point that complements the gown and hairstyle. When it comes to choosing the perfect tiara or headband, it is important to consider the beading on the dress and the hairstyle that will best suit the headpiece. Tiaras are often seen as more formal and elegant, while headbands can be more casual and whimsical. With a variety of styles, materials, and designs to choose from, brides can find the perfect headpiece to make them shine on their wedding day.

Choosing the right tiara or headband to complement your hairstyle and wedding dress

When it comes to choosing a tiara or headband for your wedding, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, think about the style of your dress and whether you want it to be the focal point or the tiara/headband. If your dress has intricate details such as pearls or crystals, you may want to opt for a headband with similar features. The colour of your dress is also important; a pure white fabric generally pairs well with silver or platinum accessories, while ivory and cream gowns complement gold.

Your face shape will also determine the most flattering type of tiara or headband. For example, if you have a round face, choose a tiara with some height to elongate your face, while a longer face calls for a headband without height. If you have an oval or heart-shaped face, you can pull off most styles but avoid peaked tiaras.

Your hairstyle will also influence your choice. If you plan on wearing your hair down, a tiara with adjustable ribbon ties or mounted on a headband will stay in place without the need for pins. For an updo, a tiara with loops at the end can be incorporated into the hairstyle with hairpins. For short hair, a headband or double headband usually works better than a traditional tiara.

Comfort is also key. Look for padded or flexible headbands to avoid any discomfort throughout the day. Finally, consider the quality and budget for your tiara or headband. A higher price often reflects better-quality materials and craftsmanship, but there are also affordable options available.

How to wear a tiara or headband securely and comfortably

When it comes to securing your tiara or headband, there are a few options. If your tiara has loops at the ends, you can use bobby pins to fasten it to your hair. Alternatively, you can use an elastic band or fishing wire.

If you opt for bobby pins, place them so that they are hidden and do not interfere with the design of the tiara. You can also use a light mist of hairspray to help hold the tiara in place, but be careful not to use too much, as this can damage the hair and the tiara.

If you have a tiara with rings, start by brushing your hair back and away from your face to smooth out any tangles or knots. Then, place the tiara on your head, centring it on your forehead and adjusting it until it sits comfortably. You can then follow the instructions that come with the tiara to hold it in place.

For a comfortable fit, make sure that your tiara is not too tight, as this can give you a headache. You can also bend the arms of the tiara band slightly if it is too large and slipping down your head, but be careful not to bend it in the middle as this can damage it.

When it comes to styling your hair with a tiara or headband, there are a few options. For long hair, you can try loose waves, low hanging buns, or high updos. It's easy to find a classic position on top of your head to centre a tiara and pop it into place. If you want something more whimsical, you can wear it as a back crown with a half-up-half-down, ponytail, or braided hairstyle.

For short hair, consider a side sweep with bangs or soft waves to frame your face. If you need more volume at the crown, you can create some to use as a base to fasten your tiara securely. Depending on your face shape, you may want to opt for a sleeker or smaller tiara headband or a low-profile bridal comb.

The difference between a tiara and a crown

Tiaras and crowns are both bejewelled headpieces that have been worn by royalty and non-royalty alike for centuries. However, there are several differences between the two.

The most obvious difference is in their shape. A crown always has a base that is a full circle and covers the whole head, whereas a tiara is a semi-circle and only covers half the head. Crowns are also usually more colourful and incorporate multiple mediums, such as fabrics, precious metals, and different types of gems or crystals. Tiaras, on the other hand, are typically made of precious metals such as gold or silver and adorned with precious gemstones like diamonds or pearls.

Another difference is in who wears them. Proper crowns are only worn by the monarch, whereas tiaras are typically worn by members of a royal family other than the monarch. Tiaras are also worn by non-royals for important social or political occasions, such as weddings. In fact, tiaras are often passed down through generations as family heirlooms.

The level of formality associated with each also differs. Crowns are traditionally meant to be a physical display of a monarch's divine right to rule and are worn during situations that are meant to be a display of power or sovereignty, such as a coronation or the opening of Parliament. Tiaras, on the other hand, are considered less formal and more fashionable. The rules of wearing a tiara are also based more on tradition rather than proper etiquette.

Finally, the history of the two headpieces also varies. The origin of the tiara dates back to Ancient Greece and Rome, where it was called a diadem. It was worn by both men and women as a symbol of power and authority. Crowns, on the other hand, have been used throughout history to denote authority, status, and prestige.

How to style your hair for a tiara or headband

When it comes to choosing a tiara or headband for your wedding, it's important to consider your hairstyle, face shape, and the overall theme of your look. Here are some tips to help you style your hair and choose the right headpiece for your special day.

Tiara Styling Tips:

• Tiaras are versatile and can be worn with a variety of hairstyles. If you have long hair, consider loose waves, low hanging buns, or high updos. You can easily centre a tiara on top of your head or wear it as a back crown with half-up-half-down styles, ponytails, or braids.
• For short hair, try a side sweep with bangs or soft waves to frame your face. Create volume at the crown to securely fasten your tiara.
• Depending on your face shape, opt for a sleeker or smaller tiara. You can also choose a tiara with a flexible wire base for adjustability.
• To secure your tiara, use bobby pins or small wire-tooth combs to fasten the loops at each end.
• For a bold statement, try an oversized tiara or crown with an updo.
• If you want a more subtle look, pair a delicate tiara with loose beach waves or long, sleek waves with a deep side part.

Headband Styling Tips:

• Headbands tend to be more casual and can be centralised or worn to the side.
• For a Hollywood-glamour look, try a side headband with loose hair curled or plaited over one shoulder.
• If you want to keep your hair away from your face, a headband is a perfect choice. It also works well with hair that is left open or half-tied.
• Headbands crafted with Swarovski Crystals add a shimmery, elegant touch to your bridal look.
• Remember to choose a headband that matches your hairstyle and makes you feel comfortable. Avoid wearing it centred, as this may remind you of school days.

Customising your tiara or headband

• Match your dress: Consider matching the beading, pearls or crystals on your dress. For example, if your dress has ivory pearls, you could choose a headband with ivory pearl details. Alternatively, you could opt for silver-coloured accessories if your dress has silver beading or diamantes.
• Hairstyle: Your chosen hairstyle can help determine whether you should go for a traditional tiara or a side headband. Loose hair with curls or plaits over one shoulder can be complemented by a side headband, while an updo or half-up style may work well with a traditional tiara.
• Custom sizes and colours: If you find a design you love but want it in a different size or colour, many suppliers offer customisation services. For example, you could request a smaller or larger headband to ensure a comfortable fit, or change the colour of the embellishments to match your wedding colour scheme.
• Hybrid designs: If you can't decide on a single design, why not combine a few styles to create a unique hybrid piece? You can mix and match different elements, such as the band style, embellishments and size, to create something that truly represents your taste.
• Bespoke designs: For a truly personalised accessory, you can work with a designer to create a bespoke tiara or headband from scratch. This option allows you to incorporate specific details, such as your dress, wedding theme or personal style, into the design.
• Custom veils: If you plan to wear a veil, you can also customise it to complement your tiara or headband. For example, you can choose a blusher veil that covers both the bride and groom during the ceremony, or opt for a longer veil that catches the wind for dramatic photos.

Frequently asked questions