Monday, November 5, 2012

How to wear an evening cocktail hat - advice from milliner Abigail Aldridge

What Hat to Wear to an Evening Event

Remember my fascinator hat from the Junior League Tea Party? That was an Abigail Aldridge creation! I asked New York City milliner Abigail Aldridge to share some of her top tips on wearing a hat or headpiece to an evening event, and she was kind enough to share the following recommendations:


What hat to wear to dinner at a restaurant? 

Small brim hat with decorative trim, velvet beret or cocktail hat with short veil.

beret hat
 Abigail Aldridge beret hat

cloche hat
Abigail Aldridge cloche hat

hat with veiling
 Abigail Aldridge hat

What hat to wear to a Birthday party? 

Fascinator or conversation piece.


What hat to wear to a Great Gatsby 1920's party? 

Cloche with bright color and/or sparkling trim, beaded headband around the forehead or feather piece.


What hat to wear to the Opera, Ballet, Theatre or Musical Concert?

Anything fancy without veils or high feathers so as not to obstruct the sightlines of yourself or others.

Opera Saratoga
 Photos from my trip to Opera Saratoga

Abigail told me that traditionally, hats have not been worn for black tie affairs (only hair ornaments), but as fashion has become more individualistic this is changing. I agree with her that some level of appropriateness is fine as a sign of consideration of others.


My favorite tip from Abigail:

Remember, you will have more fun if you dress up and wear an elegant hat!


Know a lady who loves to wear hats? 
Please share this blog with her - it will make her day! 

Want to feel inspired to wear hats?
 Follow Thats a Pretty Hat

No comments:

Post a Comment