Monday, October 1, 2012

le Chapeau

House of Bianchi 1965
My reverence for vintage pieces yet again inspires my post . This stunning pillbox gem to the left was worn by a bride in 1965, my mom. The original, diaphanous tulle blusher around the hat ignites the fine detail of the embroidery and beading.
The hat could be worn today if a bride wanted to add a little 60s retro to her modern gown.

Hats have been part of the human culture for centuries. We know they were designed for practical purposes, but many over the years have been works of art created for fashion. Hats became an accessory women and men for many years wouldn't leave their homes without. Coco Chanel got her start in the early 1900s designing hats before she transitioned to clothing.  Alas in the last thirty years Americans have entirely excluded the beautiful, head ornament from their wardrobes. In my lifetime, I can't remember making sure I had a pretty hat to match my outfit. I was a child of the 1970s and by then hats were left in their hatboxes tucked away on a closet shelf.

There is one day, however, you can consider a hat for a fashion statement. Your wedding day calls for a reflection of your style and if wearing a pillbox fits with your aesthetic I applaud your choice! Perhaps your mom or another relative has one tucked away somewhere like my mom did. Or there are many talented, fresh designers out there who would love to assist you with this accessory. Placement of the hat is actually very important to update this look from the past. I really like how this bride has her hair down with the pillbox placed just to the side of her head. She also doesn't have a birdcage blusher attached which makes even more of a statement contrasted with her dark hair. This is an amazing look nodding to the past, but very chic and modern. My dream combination personified here!

If you don't think a pillbox or other type of hat will work in your ensemble others to consider that I absolutely adore are the bridal cap (almost a scull/juliet cap) and the fascinator. The cap to the left by Enchanted Atelier is so dramatic and stunning. It almost acts like bangs that draw attention to the eyes. I love its middle age inspiration paired with a strapless gown.
The fascinator to the right is designed by Amanda Sutherland Designer Accessories UK. There isn't a fascinator I don't like as they conjure whimsy and statement all in one morsel, but this one is truly exquisite on this bride's tresses. It gives an almost hat effect, but so couture in its presence.
It creates height and
brings drama to the ensemble enough so that even jewelry is not necessary.
I'm also a huge veil girl. I'll post another day to give veils their deserved mention. These looks above are worn in place of a veil. If you decide the above are simply not you and certainly that is most important, wearing a traditional veil on your wedding day speaks volumes!

Whatever you decide to accessorize on your head will be perfect because you chose it. Having said that, perhaps take a peek inside one of those hatboxes you or a relative may have stored somewhere in a closet or attic. There are so many vintage consignment shoppes popping up everywhere. Maybe pay one a visit. Just holding a hat from another time in your hand can mesmerize the mind and offer perspective and creativity only a hat can.