How To Wear A Hat Like Royalty

If one thing is for certain, it’s that the Royals know how to rock a hat. And by which, we don’t necessarily mean a crown. Yep, our Royal family love their occasion head gear. But you don’t have to be HRH to pull off the look.

We spoke to milliner to the Royals, Vivienne Sheriff, who designed Princess Eugenie’s hat for today’s Trooping The Colour celebration who says anyone can make a statement with the right hat.

image

[Photo: Rex]

Talking about Princess Eugenie’s choice for today’s event, Vivienne says it was a ‘perfect fit’ for such an occasion:

“Princess Eugenie’s Grandmother is the world’s most elegant and celebrated hat wearer and we are proud that the Princess has chosen to wear a Vivien Sheriff piece for the Queens 90th Birthday celebration.”

“The style of the Night Jar hat she selected is a perfect fit for trooping the colour, as an event,” she said, adding:

“It is traditional in shape, so perfectly in keeping with the formality of the event, but the unique feather trim allows her to express a unique style and creativity at the same time”

Vivienne reckons that hats shouldn’t just be reserve of the Royals and by abiding by a few rules all of us can get it right.

“Here in the UK, big statement hats are worn at weddings and at the races like Royal Ascot, so my advice is to embrace the opportunity and wear something spectacular BUT do not do this at the extent of comfort… First and foremost it must feel balanced and secure so you’re not worrying about it coming off with a gust of wind or a few glasses of champagne! Be bold but be comfortable!”

image

[Photo: Rex]

“Wearing a hat to a special event presents an opportunity to express yourself like no other item in your wardrobe can) at an event a beautiful hat of fascinator adds to the drama and the excitement, it make you FEEL genuinely different and creates a sense of ceremony and tradition like no other!”

However, she was quick to add a few pointers in making sure you’ve made the right choice.

“If you’re a smaller lady, avoid a hat with a large trim, it creates an unflattering silhouette and will overshadow your face and mean you’re be hidden in photos!”

“Make sure the hat colour-palette tones well with your skin type, for example cream hat may be unflattering if you have a very white complexion”

image

[Photo: Rex]

“Pick a hat shape that is complimentary to your face shape, if you have a rounder face, off-set it with a taller sharper piece with clean lines in trim such as long feathers. If you have a thinner longer face, you are able to wear a fuller rounder base shape”

“Finally, avoid wearing sunglasses with a hat, it takes away from the majesty and tradition…”

Stylist Jules, founder of Susie In The Sky, agrees with Vivienne that making the right selection is crucial to making your look a success.

“When considering a hat, take time looking at different styles as it isn’t a case of one style suits all.

“Choose a hat that isn’t too big for your head, and always consider smaller pieces will flatter and highlight your facial features.

image

[Photo: Rex]

“Choose a colour that suits you, and try and opt for something seasonal. Hats are the perfect accessories, but you don’t want to stand out for the wrong reasons.

Jules says that different hats suit different hairstyles, and it’s important to think about this when deciding what suits you best.

“For ultimate impact, pair it with a matching handbag or clutch. Also consider your hairstyle when wearing a hat, my favourite style is waves or curls as it makes a relaxed look. If you have short hair, choose a hat that doesn’t completely cover your head. Hats on short crops can make a stunning impact.”

So now we have the hat we just need the occasion. Now pass the champagne!

George And Charlotte Make First Joint Balcony Appearance At Trooping The Colour

Kate, Zara, Eugenie And Beatrice Kick-Start The Queen’s Birthday Weekend In Style