Covering the bride’s head is an extremely long tradition. Almost every country has a history of €veiling€ the bride. At first it was done for practical purposes, but eventually, as wedding traditions developed, so did the custom of €veiling.€ It didn’t take long for brides to choose more ornate covers for their heads, turning a once necessary and symbolic act into a fashion trend.
First the fabric became more decorative or decorated. Then items were added. Around the medieval period, or possibly sooner, brides began combining headdresses to their veils, essentially starting the tradition of wearing a bridal hat with their veils. It is a trend that has never truly left the wedding world, though the choice to wear a hat is dependent on the bride.
Even if wearing a bridal hat with veils is something that started centuries ago, most modern brides find inspiration in the style of the 1920s, where brides often wore decorated caps connected to their veils. It is also from this era in history that many milliners take their design inspiration for modern fascinators and headpieces.
When choosing to follow this style, brides have several things to consider. First, most hats cannot be worn with long veils. If you want a long veil, you will have to have a very secure headpiece, like the caps of the 1920s. Top hats, which aren’t very common, can also be used, but not all women feel comfortable wearing a top hat on their wedding day. Choosing a small veil will look very chic. It also assures you that you can use your bridal headpiece well after your wedding. Many women have started wearing headpieces again, and white is a great color for a headpiece because it will go with just about any outfit.
Second, brides need to consider their hairstyle in contrast to their dress. Wearing a headpiece usually means your hair will be coiffed. Does that suit your dress? Also, if your dress is heavily decorated or shows of intricate craftsmanship, donning a headpiece may look like €too much.€ For all brides, simplicity is most beautiful. So though you can showcase your personality, take timelessness into consideration.
Finally, consider your reception. Will you want to wear this headpiece all night? Most brides take their veils off when they get to the reception. How easily you can remove your headpiece, if you so wish, should also be considered. After all, if you take it off and ruin your hair, you’d have ruined your entire look. So choose wisely!
