In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.” – Coco Chanel
It is only fitting to talk about “headpieces” after blogging on veils. Chances are this is the first time you have given much thought to “headpieces”, or maybe you briefly thought of “an image” when reading our last blog. Like veils, headpieces can be completely overwhelming. So to help you sort through your many options, I wanted to offer a few tips and some advice in hopes to help you find a perfect finishing touch for your special day.
START AT THE TOP
Once you know the different options, it’s easy to top off your bridal ensemble with the perfect headpiece. Options can range from simply chic to dramatically striking. The best advice, experiment with different shapes, sizes, and styles to find a look that coordinates best with your gown & one that you feel comfortable with. Remember, a headpiece should show your true personality.
Tiara: A jeweled or beaded semicircle headpiece worn on top of the head. Like its sister, the crown, the tiara has long been considered a symbol of prosperity and glamour. Wear yours alone or combine it with a veil for a breathtaking bridal look. Tiaras look fabulous with up-dos, as well as partial up-dos and short hair. Tiaras also provide a strikingly regal look when paired with long, feminine locks.
Headband: An embellished version of your favorite everyday style, available in varying widths and materials. Adorned with crystals, pearls or beads, bridal headbands offer an easy, yet sophisticated accent to any style. Headbands are an excellent option for brides with short hair. They also work well with longer styles because they play up your features by gathering hair off your face.
Pins and Combs: Decorative hair accessories designed with crystals, rhinestones or floral motifs. Scatter glittering pins throughout your hair for a touch of elegance. Create a modern look with a clip accented with flowers, crystals and/or feathers. Placement can make all the difference. For a dramatic effect that resembles a tiara, wear an ornate comb on top of your head. A headpiece jauntily perched behind your ear evokes a saucy, yet sophisticated look. Or try one of the hottest emerging trends: a clip or comb with large, fabric flowers (lace, organza or chiffon) placed at the base of your hairline (or upswept hair) and paired with a long, allover lace veil. Bejeweled pins add sparkle to up-dos, partial up-dos or short hair. Decorative combs are among the hottest hair accessories right now – they look great with any hairstyle.
WHAT COMES FIRST?
Brides often wonder if the best plan is to start with a hairstyle or headpiece? Either way works just fine! If you’ve fallen in love with a hairstyle or headpiece (or both), it’s easy to coordinate a complementary look. Let your consultant in on your first decision, then she’ll lead the way to a perfect look for your wedding day.
Whether you plan to wear your hair long and flowing, swept up in an “up-do” or halfway in between, you’ll find an array of headpiece options for each style.
GOWN MATTERS
With a little help, it’s easy to pair your gown with the perfect headpiece. Just follow a few simple guidelines from our experts and you’ll soon discover a headpiece look that accentuates your dress and individual style. Coordinate the type of embellishment on the headpiece with that of your gown. Pair a pearl-beaded dress with a headband ornamented in pearls. Choose a tiara with sparkling Swarovski crystals to complement your crystal-laden gown. Try a veil with gold or sliver edging to coordinate with metallic embroidery on your dress. Highlight your gown’s lace accents with a lace-trimmed veil ? you get the idea.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
If you’ve already found the perfect gown and coordinating headpiece and veil, your hairstyle options will easily fall into place. Schedule a trial session with your hairstylist in plenty of time before your wedding. Lay it all out by bringing a photo of your gown and some of the essential details of your wedding. The stylist should have a feel for your overall theme and location in order to best complement your style. Bring your actual headpiece(s) and experiment with hairstyle options until you find the best look for you.
Remember that there is no right or wrong answer for your dream day-be creative and express your personal style!