Summer Wedding Hats and Hair: How to Make It Work Beautifully

While Ascot may be over, the summer wedding season is in full swing, and sometimes a gorgeous hat or fascinator is exactly the finishing touch your outfit needs. Beyond adding real wow factor to your look, headwear can also provide welcome protection from the sun during those outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

The key to pulling off this elegant combination lies in ensuring your hair complements your hat rather than competing with it. Here's how to achieve that perfect balance.

Essential Styling Principles

Polished is key. Hats pair best with hair that's been intentionally styled and refined. While natural texture can be beautiful for an everyday look, unstyled hair usually doesn't do justice to your sophisticated look or your carefully chosen headwear.

Consider proportion and placement. The style and size of your hat should guide your hair choices. Wide-brimmed hats call for sleek, low styles that won't create bulk, while smaller fascinators can handle more volume and drama.

Embrace asymmetry. Side partings are universally flattering and help highlight any interesting design elements in your hat. Consider sweeping your hair to one side or positioning an updo just behind one ear to showcase your neckline or statement earrings.

Hairstyling for Different Hat Types

Wide-Brimmed Hats

Low, sleek buns are your best friend when wearing wide-brimmed styles. They eliminate bulk around the crown, ensuring your hat sits smoothly and comfortably. A chignon positioned at the nape of the neck or a twisted bun tucked behind one ear both work beautifully.

Wide-brimmed hat paired with a low bun. Image: s.nova.vintage on instagram

Fascinators and smaller hats

These statement pieces love a bit of drama, so don't be afraid to experiment. Side-swept waves, romantic updos, or chic ponytails offset to one side all create visual interest. A deep side parting with hair pinned back on one side creates perfect balance and makes the fascinator feel like an integral part of your look rather than an afterthought.

Woman in smaller hat by @saharmillinery on instagram

Woman wearing beautiful fascinator/small hat. Image instagram @lavish_home_of_style

Day-of Success Tips

1. Practice makes perfect. Always do a trial run with your complete look. This ensures your hat or fascinator sits comfortably and works harmoniously with your chosen hairstyle. You'll also discover any adjustments needed for comfort during a long event.

   
   

2. Pack a survival kit. Tuck a few extra bobby pins and a travel-sized hairspray into your handbag. Weather can be unpredictable, and having these essentials on hand will help you maintain your polished look throughout the celebration.

   
   

3. Confidence is everything. Remember that your best accessory is confidence. When you feel amazing in your carefully coordinated look, it radiates to everyone around you.

With these guidelines in mind, you'll be perfectly prepared to make a stunning impression at any summer wedding, while staying comfortable and stylish all day long.