Weddings are special occasions where you want to look your best. Whether you’re part of the wedding party or just attending as a guest, a hat can add a nice touch to your outfit.
The key is to wear it comfortably and make sure it suits your overall look. Check that your hat fits the dress code. You can tilt it slightly for style, but take it off indoors unless it is small and doesn’t block anyone’s view.
If you’re unsure how to wear a hat for a wedding, we’ll walk you through it step by step.
Before we dive into the details, let’s first look at when wearing a hat is actually appropriate.
Is It Appropriate to Wear a Hat to a Wedding
Wearing a hat depends on the venue, dress code, and type of wedding. For outdoor weddings, like those in gardens or on beaches, a stylish hat can make your outfit look nicer and also protect you from the sun.
At indoor weddings, especially in churches or other religious venues, men should usually remove their hats during the ceremony as a sign of respect. Women can often keep their hats on, as long as they don’t block anyone’s view, according to The Knot.
For formal weddings, women often wear fascinators or elegant wide-brim hats. Men may wear top hats for black-tie events, and cowboy hats can be suitable for Western-themed weddings.
Casual hats, like baseball caps or beanies, are not appropriate. If you’re unsure, check the invitation or ask the couple.
How to Wear a Hat for a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide
A hat can enhance your wedding outfit, but it’s important that it fits well and feels comfortable. Follow these steps to wear it correctly and confidently.
Step 1: Check the Dress Code
Before choosing a hat, think about the kind of wedding you’ll be attending. Is it formal, casual, or themed?
The invitation usually mentions the dress code, and if it doesn’t, you can ask the host. This will help you pick a hat that fits the occasion.
Step 2: Choose the Right Hat
Once you know the dress code, pick a hat that suits the event. A classic hat or fascinator works well for formal weddings. For casual weddings, a simple sun hat or fedora is fine. Avoid hats that are too large or could block someone’s view.
Quick Tip: Pick your hat before doing your hair. This way, you won’t have to redo your hairstyle if the hat doesn’t sit right.
Step 3: Make Sure It Fits Well
Your hat should sit comfortably on your head—not too tight and not too loose. If you’re wearing a small or decorative hat, like a fascinator, use hat pins to secure it in your hair.
For larger hats, such as wide-brim styles, a strap under your chin or around your head can help keep it in place, especially at outdoor weddings. This will stop you from having to adjust it throughout the day.
Step 4: Position the Hat Correctly
Hat placement depends on its style. Fascinators are usually worn to one side, while classic hats should sit evenly on your head. Make sure it’s secure, comfortable, and doesn’t cover your face.
You might be wondering whether to wear your hair up or down with a fascinator.
Both options work, but the main goal is to keep the hat in place. A bun or ponytail helps hold it securely and looks neat. If you wear your hair down, use pins or clips to secure the fascinator in place.
Learn more about how to wear a hat with long hair or how to wear a hat with short hair for more tips on styling your hair with any hat.
Step 5: Make Your Hat Complement Your Outfit
Your hat should complement your outfit. Choose colors and styles that go well with your dress or suit. If your outfit is simple, you can pick a more stylish hat. If your hat is already detailed, keep it simple to avoid overdoing the look.
Step 6: Stay Comfortable
You might be wearing the hat for several hours, so it needs to feel comfortable. If it’s too tight, it can give you a headache. If it’s too loose, you’ll keep adjusting it. Pick a hat that feels right from the start.
By following these steps, you can wear a hat to a wedding comfortably and with confidence.
7 Hat Etiquette Rules for Weddings
A hat can add style to your wedding outfit, but it’s important to follow basic etiquette to show respect for the occasion.
1. Know When to Remove It
Men should remove their hats indoors, especially during the ceremony. Women can usually keep theirs on, as long as they don’t block anyone’s view.
A groom once shared online:
“I am getting married next month and plan to wear a hat. I cannot find clear etiquette on when I should take it off and when I can keep it on.”
Here’s a simple guide:
Take it off:
- During the ceremony, especially when the bride walks down the aisle.
- While saying your vows and during prayers or religious moments.
- Indoors at a church or formal venue.
Keep it on:
- At outdoor weddings, unless part of the ceremony is indoors.
- During the reception, unless the venue has specific rules.
Tip: Every wedding is different, so if you’re unsure about the rules, check with the officiant or the couple.
2. Time of Day Matters
Hats are more common for daytime weddings. For evening weddings, smaller and elegant headpieces are usually better.
3. Never Outshine the Couple
Your hat should complement your outfit, but avoid anything too flashy that takes attention away from the bride and groom.
4. Respect the Mother of the Bride
Guests should avoid wearing a hat larger than the mother of the bride’s. It’s a traditional sign of respect.
5. Be Mindful of Photos
Large hats can block faces or cast shadows in pictures. Before group photos, tilt or adjust your hat so your face is visible. You can also ask the photographer for guidance.
6. Keep Your Hat Secure
For outdoor weddings, use hat pins or a strap to stop your hat from slipping or blowing away in the wind.
7. Place Decorations Correctly
If your hat has feathers, pins, or other decorations, placement matters. For women, decorations usually go on the right side. For men, they go on the left.
Conclusion
A hat can make your wedding outfit look better, but it works best when it fits well and follows simple etiquette.
Choose one that matches the dress code and suits the occasion. If you’re ever unsure, check with the venue. That way, you can feel confident and enjoy the day without worrying about your hat.
Did we miss any useful tips about wedding hats? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments. Your input might help other readers, too!
FAQs About Wearing Hats to Weddings
Can you wear a hat to a wedding?
Yes, but it depends on the type of wedding. For outdoor ceremonies, hats are usually welcome and also practical for sun protection.
At indoor weddings, especially in churches or religious venues, men should remove their hats during the ceremony. If you’re unsure, check the invitation or ask the couple.
Can you wear a black hat to a wedding?
Yes, black hats can look elegant, but in some cultures, black is linked with mourning. If you’re unsure, choose another color to be safe.
Should the mother of the bride wear a hat or a fascinator?
She can wear either. Hats suit formal weddings, while fascinators give a lighter, more relaxed look. The key is to match the wedding style.
Does the mother of the groom have to wear a hat?
No, it’s not required. But if the bride’s mother is wearing one, the groom’s mother may choose to wear one too. Just make sure it’s not more eye-catching than the bride’s mother’s hat.
