Everyone loves an excuse to dress up, especially one which requires you to buy wedding hats (there’s no greater reason than going all out when two people you love are tying the knot).
Let’s face it, we’ve got more nuptials to attend in 2022 than there are hours in the day thanks to postponements, so if ever there was a time to buy one of the best wedding hats, now is it.
Wedding hats are the accessory to complement your wedding guest dress – alongside a pair of comfortable wedding shoes and a clutch bag, of course – offering a traditional-but-chic finish to your get-up. There’s a reason the royals are obsessed.
If you’re worried about the etiquette that comes with wearing one, you needn’t be. We’ve got that covered below, as well as our pick of the best wedding hats for women from brands like Coast, John Lewis and Phase Eight.
Lauren Twirl & Flower Occasion Hat
Loop And Feather Hat
Who wears a hat at a wedding?
Anyone can wear wedding hats, but it’s particularly customary for the mother of the bride to don one. The Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall are all known for wearing occasion hats and making them look effortless, so take a leaf out of their book when choosing yours. Stick to a colour theme for a classic, monochrome look, or opt for a pop of contrast with something bright and interesting — just be careful of clashing hues.
Our favourite wedding hat makers? John Lewis, Accessorize and Phase Eight carry some expensive-looking high street options, and we’re super fans of the Coast x Lisa Tan millinery collection. If you’re looking to splurge, designers like Vivien Sheriff, Maison Michel and Merve Bayindir are ones to check out.
Do you keep your hat on at a wedding reception?
Traditionally, you should remove your wedding hat after the meal – but for less formal occasions it’s totally up to you. No one’s going to tell you otherwise, unless you’re attending a regal ceremony.