Wearing a hat: here’s how! 3 etiquette questions answered!

1. When do I keep my hat on?

Forget everything you thought you knew about hats at a wedding. Brussels-based Fabienne Delvigne has been making haute couture hats since 1987 and confirms: “There are a huge number of misconceptions about wearing hats. For instance, you don’t always have to take your hat off when you enter somewhere. You only do this at a festive occasion such as a vernissage or a wedding reception. There, the hat serves as a unique statement and can spark plenty of conversation!”

The etiquette difference between men and women? “When entering the church, men take off their hats; women don’t have to. During dinner, it is desirable that all hats are removed, except the bride’s decorative hairpiece.”

*Foto's: Accessoires: Atelier Anne Stoffels*

2. Can I only wear a hat if everyone chooses to do so?

According to etiquette, it’s perfectly acceptable, for example, for the mother of the bride to wear a hat while the mother-in-law does not. You decide for yourself—hat or no headpiece. It’s a bit like choosing an elegant dress or a stylish jumpsuit: both work for a wedding celebration.”

3. Which hat do I choose?

“Some women (and men) suit a small hat—also called a bibi—better, while others look better in a more voluminous piece. The style of the hat is often chosen based on the silhouette. For example, it’s a myth that shorter women can’t wear a large hat. I look at the face, the waist, the outfit, but certainly also at personality to find the perfect match.”