Wedding Hat Etiquette FAQs
Traditions, Rules and Modern Advice
I share clear, traditional guidance on wedding hat etiquette, including what’s appropriate, when to remove your hat, and how to choose a flattering style that feels correct for the occasion. If you’re the Mother of the Bride or Mother of the Groom, these FAQs will help you feel elegant, assured and comfortably “right” on the day. I also cover practical do’s and don’ts that make wearing a hat easy.
Next steps: For practical guidance on what suits you and your outfit, see Wedding Hat Advice and Colour and Outfit Matching. If you’d like a hat designed around you, read my Bespoke Consultation Process and view my Bespoke Hat Portfolio. If you’re short on time, browse Ready-to-Wear. If you’re unsure what’s appropriate for your event, please use my Contact page.
Why do British women wear hats to weddings and events?
Hats are part of a long-standing British tradition, especially for formal daytime occasions. A well-chosen hat finishes an outfit beautifully and adds that polished, timeless sense of occasion in photographs.
When should wedding guests wear hats?
Hats suit daytime weddings, garden ceremonies and church services particularly well, and they are especially popular for close family and top-table guests. Evening receptions tend to be more relaxed, so many guests remove hats after the wedding breakfast or before dancing begins.
How long should I keep my hat on at a wedding?
Tradition suggests that ladies keep their hats on for the formal parts of the day, including the ceremony, photographs, toasts and speeches. Later on, as the reception becomes more relaxed, guests often remove hats - although as a general rule not before the Mother of the Bride removes hers first! The aim is to feel confident, comfortable and fully present for the celebration.
How do I choose the right colour for my hat?
Start with a colour that flatters your complexion and complements your outfit. Neutrals can feel elegant and versatile, while bolder shades create a striking statement. Natural daylight is always best for judging colour harmony. For a simple, step-by-step approach, see Colour & Outfit Matching.
I am a petite lady, can you suggest hats that might be suitable for me?
Absolutely! For petite ladies, it’s important to choose a hat that complements your proportions without overwhelming your frame.
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Avoid Oversized Brims: Opt for medium or smaller brims to maintain balance and elegance.
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Perching Hats: These stylish, smaller designs add sophistication without overpowering your look. I have lots of samples like this in my Bespoke Hats Portfolio, and nearly all the hats in my Ready to Wear Hat Shop are in this style.
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Vertical Accents: Feathers or trims with height create the illusion of added height.
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Asymmetry: Asymmetrical styles draw the eye upward and balance proportions.
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Tailored Fit: A neatly fitted hat ensures comfort and avoids looking oversized.
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The key is: Choosing a hat that enhances your beauty, suits your style and feels comfortable. Together, we’ll find the perfect piece to make you feel fabulous on the big day!
How do I coordinate my hat with my outfit?
Choose one or two details from your outfit and echo them in the hat, rather than matching everything exactly. This approach looks refined and intentional, and it avoids the “overmatched” look.
How can I feel more confident wearing a hat?
Confidence usually comes as soon as you find a shape that flatters you and you become familiar with how it balances. Once it feels comfortable, it stops feeling like “a hat” and starts becoming ‘part of you’.
Should the Mother of the Bride always wear a hat?
There is no rule that says she must, but many Mothers of the Bride choose to because it feels fitting for the role and the formality of the occasion. A thoughtfully chosen hat completes the outfit and can feel wonderfully celebratory. If you decide to wear one, I would be delighted to help you find the piece that’s right for you. You might find the Hat Etiquette and Traditions page useful to read
Can I re-wear a hat for different occasions?
Absolutely. A well-chosen hat can work with a variety of outfits over time, so you can enjoy wearing it again for other weddings and special events.
Are hats required for Royal Ascot?
Yes, in certain enclosures, such as the Royal Enclosure. I design hats with those dress code standards in mind while still keeping comfort and creativity at the heart of the piece.
What is the correct side to tilt a hat?
Traditionally, ladies tilt their hats slightly to the right, framing the face attractively and allowing free movement. This small detail creates balance and helps the hat photograph beautifully.