Bridesmaids In Tiaras: Tacky Or Regal?

Tiaras are often seen as the great dividers of brides. Some people find them tacky and reminiscent of prom, while others find them regal and pretty. The consensus is that it is the bride's decision to make, and if she feels beautiful, she should go for it. However, it is generally agreed that only the bride should wear a tiara, and that bridesmaids should refrain from doing so to avoid upstaging the bride.

Tiaras at weddings: Tacky or tasteful?

When it comes to wedding attire, opinions are always divided. Some people believe that a wedding is the perfect opportunity to go all out and embrace one's inner royalty, while others may view certain accessories as over-the-top or inappropriate. So, where do tiaras fall on this spectrum? Are they tacky or tasteful?

The case for tasteful:

It's undeniable that tiaras can add a touch of glamour and elegance to a bridal look. They can make the bride feel like a princess for the day and complement the overall theme of the wedding. For example, a Victorian-themed wedding or a royal-inspired venue could be the perfect setting for a tiara. Additionally, tiaras can be a fun way to incorporate antique or period pieces into one's wedding attire, adding a sense of history and craftsmanship to the ensemble.

When done right, tiaras can be a classy and sophisticated choice. Choosing a dainty or subtle design, such as a sparkly headband or a thin crown, can elevate the bridal look without veering into tacky territory. It's also essential to consider the overall balance of the outfit. As Vanessa Chiltern, co-founder of the British brand Robinson Pelham, advises, "The tiara and dress must not compete...If you have a loud tiara and a loud dress, then you lose the bride."

The case for tacky:

On the other hand, some people view tiaras as too costume-like or reminiscent of prom. Tiaras, especially those that resemble crowns, can give off a "trying too hard" or "pageant queen" vibe. They may be seen as attention-grabbing or inappropriate, taking away from the elegance and sophistication that a bride typically strives for.

Additionally, the association of tiaras with royalty and social rank can be off-putting to some. Unless one is an actual princess or queen, donning a tiara may be perceived as an attempt to inappropriately elevate one's social status. This perception is especially true for non-royal brides, as there was an old custom that royals waited until they were married to wear a tiara.

So, what's the verdict? Ultimately, the decision to wear a tiara rests with the individual bride. As one commenter wisely points out, "It only matters what you think. If you love it, do it!!!!" While some may view tiaras as tacky or over-the-top, others find them elegant and classy. It's essential to consider the overall theme and formality of the wedding, the design and subtlety of the tiara, and how well it complements the bridal ensemble.

At the end of the day, a wedding is a celebration of love, and if a tiara makes the bride feel confident and special, then perhaps that's all that matters.

The revival of tiaras

Tiaras are no longer just for princesses and queens. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of tiaras, particularly for brides on their wedding day. But is it weird to have bridesmaids wear tiaras?

Tiaras have long been associated with royalty and social rank, often reserved for white-tie banquets and weddings. However, with the recent coronation of King Charles III, bejewelled headgear has taken centre stage once more, and tiaras are enjoying a revival. High jewellery maisons have crafted an array of tiara designs to celebrate the historic event, from traditional wishbone styles to more modern, cutting-edge creations.

When it comes to bridal fashion, tiaras can be a polarising choice. Some view them as regal and elegant, while others find them too costume-like or reminiscent of prom. Ultimately, it is a personal choice, and many brides are embracing the opportunity to wear a tiara on their special day. But what about the bridesmaids?

While it is not uncommon for flower girls to wear tiaras, having bridesmaids wear tiaras can be seen as unusual. It is important to remember that the bridal party should not upstage the bride, so if the bride is wearing a tiara, it may be best to choose a different accessory for the bridesmaids. However, if the bride is not wearing a tiara, there is no reason why the bridesmaids couldn't rock a sparkling headband or a dainty tiara.

When choosing a tiara for your bridesmaids, it is essential to consider the overall style and theme of the wedding. A Victorian-themed wedding, for example, could call for more elegant and regal tiara choices. The dress code of the wedding guests should also be taken into account, as a casual wedding may not be the best setting for tiaras. Additionally, the size and style of the tiara can make a difference, with smaller, more subtle designs often being more suitable for bridesmaids.

So, is it weird to have bridesmaids wear tiaras? The answer is subjective and depends on the context and style of the wedding. While tiaras may not be the first choice for bridesmaids, there is no rule against it, and with the right execution, they can add a touch of sparkle and elegance to the bridal party.

History of tiaras

The history of tiaras dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where they were known as diadems and worn by winners of the Olympic Games and high-ranking men and women as symbols of status and authority. In the 1st century, wives of Roman emperors adorned their heads with crescent moon-shaped headbands, and by the 3rd century, diadems had become fashionable under the emperors of the Roman Empire.

During the Middle Ages, tiaras fell out of fashion as women typically covered their hair. However, they re-emerged in the late 18th century when styles from antiquity were revived, and ladies wore Roman tunic-style dresses and tiaras.

The tradition of wearing tiaras was popularised by Napoleon in the 19th century. He commissioned several headpieces for his wife, Josephine, to associate himself with ancient emperors and present his court as magnificent. This sparked a trend among noblewomen and the grand houses of Europe, including the British royal family. Empress Josephine is said to have had a large collection of tiaras, often gifted to her by Napoleon, and she, in turn, passed them on to other family members.

Tiaras became an indispensable part of the jewellery collection for noble ladies, complementing ball and state robes. They were crafted with sparkling diamonds, pearls, and other fine jewels, with each ruling house commissioning magnificent pieces.

In the 20th century, the style of wearing tiaras changed, and narrow headbands reminiscent of ancient athletes' headbands became popular again. Today, tiaras continue to be associated with royalty and are worn on grand state occasions and weddings. They are often seen as a symbol of status and style, with auction houses fetching high sums for antique tiaras with interesting provenances.

Choosing a tiara style

• Round face – to add height, opt for a taller tiara or one that comes to a peak in the centre.
• Long face – avoid taller tiaras that will elongate your face further. Instead, select a small, delicate tiara, headband, hairpins, or a comb.
• Oval face – avoid tiaras with a peak at the top, as this will also lengthen your face. Opt for a lower tiara, headband, hairpin, comb, or back piece.
• Full face – choose a tiara that comes to a peak in the centre to give the appearance of a longer face.

The hairstyle you plan to wear on the day is another factor to consider when choosing a tiara style. Here are some recommendations based on different hairstyles:

• Short hair – headbands or lighter, more delicate tiaras are a better fit, as combs and pins or heavier tiaras are less likely to stay in place.
• Up-swept hair – a tall tiara is a good choice so that it doesn't get lost in your hairstyle. An elaborate headband, hairpin, or comb would also look fabulous.
• Hair down – a headband or side combs are best to keep the hair off your face.

You can wear a tiara with or without a veil, and they complement all hairstyles and hair lengths. If you plan to wear a veil, you may want to consider how the tiara and veil will work together.

Finally, the style of your dress or gown is another element to think about when choosing a tiara. You can match the details of your dress with your tiara. Here are some suggestions:

• Crystal design tiara
• Pearl tiara
• Floral design tiara
• Modern style tiara
• Traditional style tiara

Tiaras for bridesmaids only?

If you're thinking of having your bridesmaids wear tiaras, you may be wondering if it's a good idea. It's definitely not a common choice, but there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wedding attire. Here are some things to consider:

The Pros of Tiaras for Bridesmaids

• It can add a touch of glamour and elegance to your bridal party. Tiaras are often associated with royalty and can make your bridesmaids feel like princesses for the day.
• If you're having a themed wedding, such as a Victorian-themed or royal-themed wedding, tiaras can be a fun and appropriate accessory for your bridesmaids.
• Tiaras can be a unique way to unify the look of your bridal party, especially if your bridesmaids are wearing different dresses or have different hair lengths and styles.

The Cons of Tiaras for Bridesmaids

• Tiaras can be expensive, especially if you're purchasing them for multiple bridesmaids.
• Some people may view tiaras as too costume-like or trendy, and they may not stand the test of time in your wedding photos.
• Wearing a tiara is a bold choice, and some bridesmaids may feel uncomfortable with the level of attention or formality that a tiara brings.

Tips for Pulling Off Tiaras for Bridesmaids

• Choose tiaras that are simple and elegant rather than tall and pointy. Delicate, sparkly headbands or smaller tiaras that sit close to the head tend to be more flattering and timeless.
• Consider the overall vibe of your wedding. Tiaras may work better with a more formal wedding, especially if the groomsmen are also dressed in a formal way, such as in morning coats or tuxedos.
• Make sure the tiaras don't compete with the dresses or hairstyles of your bridesmaids. Choose a style that complements rather than overwhelms.

Ultimately, the decision to have your bridesmaids wear tiaras is a personal one. If you and your bridesmaids love the idea and feel confident about it, then go for it! It's your special day, and you should feel free to make choices that reflect your unique style and vision.

Frequently asked questions