How to Wear a Hat to a Wedding: The 7-Step Style Guide

Wearing a hat to a wedding is a lovely way to add some style and personality to your outfit. But it can sometimes feel a bit tricky to know what kind of hat to pick and how to wear it right.

This simple 7-step guide makes everything easy. You'll learn how to choose your hat, match it well, and wear it comfortably and with confidence for any wedding.

Step 1: Pick the Right Style of Hat for the Wedding

The first thing you want to think about is what kind of hat fits the occasion. Different weddings call for different styles.

• Traditional Weddings: Church weddings or formal indoor ceremonies call for classic hats. Think mother of the bride hats, church hats for women, or elegant hats with subtle details.
• Outdoor or Garden Weddings: Light, airy hats work best here. Derby hats, wide-brimmed straw hats, or soft fascinators keep you cool while adding flair.
• Festive Weddings: Don’t shy away from color. A floral Kentucky derby hat, a lime green fascinator, or even a large red statement hat makes your outfit stand out..
• Evening Weddings: Choose hats with a touch of sparkle or darker shades like navy, black, or jewel tones for elegance.

Pro Tip: Always check if the couple has a dress code. Some weddings encourage hats, while others may be more relaxed.

Step 2: Match Your Hat with Your Outfit and Shoes

Your hat should complete your look, not compete with it.

• If your dress is patterned, keep your hat simple and in a neutral color.
• If your outfit is plain, use your hat as the statement piece: feathers, flowers, or bright shades work beautifully.
• The Shoes and Hat Rule where balance is key. Pair chunky or structured shoes with wide-brim hats for proportion. For delicate fascinators, choose elegant heels or strappy sandals.
• Metallic shoes like gold or silver pair well with hats in pastel shades, while nude shoes are always a safe choice if your hat is bold.

Step 3: Make Sure Your Hat Fits You Well and Looks Good with Your Face Shape

Each face shape has hats that highlight features best:

• Round faces: Go for hats with height, like fascinators or angled hats, to elongate your look.
• Oval faces: Lucky you, almost every style works! Try experimenting with both big brims and small fascinators.
• Square faces: Hats with round crowns or soft curves help soften sharp jawlines.
• Long faces: Wide-brimmed hats or fuller derby styles balance length nicely.

Don’t forget your hairstyle! A side bun pairs well with fascinators, while loose curls look dreamy with wide-brim hats.

Step 4: Prioritize Comfort So You Can Enjoy the Wedding

A wedding can last six to eight hours, so comfort is key.

• Pick hats made of lightweight fabrics like straw, or felt for longer wear.
• Make sure your hat has a secure but gentle fit; too tight will cause headaches, too loose will slip.
• Use hat combs or headbands if you’re worried about stability.
• Custom-fitted hats are worth it if you wear them often, they stay secure without feeling heavy.

Step 5: Follow the Wedding Hat Etiquette

Hat etiquette shows respect for tradition and the event.

• Size matters: Avoid overly large hats that block someone else’s view.
• Who wears the biggest hat? Typically, the mother of the bride or the bride herself.
• Indoor rules: Ladies can keep their hats on inside, but removing them during the meal is polite.
• Respect the setting: A formal church wedding calls for more refined hats, while beach or outdoor ceremonies allow lighter, playful pieces.

Step 6: Pay Attention to How You Accessorize Your Hat

Hats often come with feathers, veils, or embellishments, these need styling too.

• Keep accessories balanced. If your hat is elaborate, keep jewelry minimal.
• Ensure feathers, brooches, or flowers are pinned securely to avoid fussing during photos.
• Try not to add oversized earrings or heavy necklaces that compete with the hat.
• For fascinators, place them slightly angled to the side for a chic, polished look.

Step 7: Wear Your Hat with Confidence

At the end of the day, your attitude makes your outfit shine.

• Practice wearing your hat before the wedding, you’ll feel more natural.
• Stand tall and smile. Confidence is what makes even the boldest hats look graceful.
• Remember: your hat should feel like part of your personality, not just an accessory.

Bonus Tips for Wedding Hats

• Seasonal Choices: Light, airy hats for summer weddings; velvet or wool hats for cooler months.
• Travel-Friendly Hats: If traveling to a destination wedding, carry a hat box or use a packable hat that springs back into shape.
• Try Before the Big Day: Experiment with different styles in front of a mirror, or ask friends for feedback.
• Photography Tip: Hats can cast shadows. Tilt your hat slightly upward for brighter photos.

FAQ’s

Q. Can I wear a hat to a wedding?

A. Absolutely! Hats and fascinators are popular and classy choices for weddings.

Q. Are fascinators appropriate for weddings?

A. Yes, they add elegance without being too heavy or formal.

Q. How do I match my hat to my shoes?

A. Try to match colors or keep shoes neutral so the hat stands out nicely.

Q. Does hat size matter at weddings?

A. Yes, keep your hat the right size not to block others’ views or overshadow the bride.

The Final Touch That Sets You Apart

Wearing a hat at a wedding is more than just tradition, it’s a way to show your style and add confidence to your look. Picking the right style, color, and size, thinking about how it matches your shoes and dress, and following simple etiquette make your day easier and more stylish.

For beautiful, well-made hats perfect for weddings and special events, The Hat Girls offer custom hats designed to fit your style and occasion. Our hats range from elegant fascinators to bold derby hats, all made with care and the perfect fit.

Find your perfect wedding hat today and get ready to make your day unforgettable!