Chicago Wedding and Bridal Blog

Love the dress, the hat seems like too much?

I recently read on TheKnot.com that pillbox hats are back in bridal style. I’m not sure what to do with this trend. I think hats can be very elegant, but they are not necessarily the best fashion decision for brides. Remember the 80’s? Big bridal hats with large floppy brims and veils were very popular then, as were bog poofy sleeves and lace ruffled edged everything.

Since wedding gowns have morphed into Oscar gala type formal gowns these days, I am not sure that the addition of a hat would make the ensemble any better.  I do like other things in the hair for brides. Feather fascinators are amazing and so are a lot of the rhinestone hair combs and clips (especially the vintage ones). So, there are plenty of options.

I do like hats for other occasions though. An Easter hat is always fun and who doesn’t get a little excited at the sight of fun winter hats? Cowboy hats: cool. But, wedding hats? Ah, not so much.

My great Aunt Phyllis chose a white suit and a gardenia in her hair, although this look might work with a hat too.

That said if you are looking for a vintage look, a hat might be appropriate with the right wedding gown. You might want to keep it tea-length, off the floor and without a train. I think a great informal wedding dress is one with a just below the knee skirt and a fitted jacket. Kind of a 1940’s style. Yes, its more mature and appropriate for 2nd weddings, but it can also be perfect for your first wedding.

I think there are fewer rules about what you can/should wear to get married now, than in the last 50 years so if you really have your heart set on wearing a wedding pillbox hat or any kind of hat with a veil, try it out with your dress and see if it’s your style. If you like it, don’t listen to anyone else’s opinion, you are the person who really has to be happy with the look for your wedding day.