Mother of the bride: matching the hat to the outfit
You'll be in more photographs than anyone except the couple. Choose the hat for those.
Fabric first
Satin and silk outfits want a satin overlay or a fine sinamay. Crepe, lace and structured dresses take felt or a matte sinamay. Matching the sheen matters more than matching the colour exactly.
Shade second
Exact matches are rare. Pick one tone deeper than the outfit if you want the hat to frame your face, one tone lighter if you want it to disappear into the photo. Navy and ivory are the two shades that work with almost anything.
Then the brim
- Medium brim for ceremonies and outdoor photos: it frames the face without hiding it when you're embracing people.
- Small brim or headpiece if the venue is indoors or you'll be in a lot of close-up portraits.
- Wide brim for garden weddings in full sun, where it's as practical as it is elegant.
Timing
Order six to eight weeks ahead if you can. Pre-order pieces take around two weeks before dispatch, and that leaves time for an exchange if the shade isn't right in daylight. If you're closer than that, filter the collection to in-stock pieces.