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No need for a fancy milliner – these 10 gorgeous wedding hats are from the high street, and just in time for Ascot!
From just £59, these are the best affordable picks to top off your look
As summer rolls in, expect your weekends to be jam-packed. Wedding season is in full swing and Ascot is just around the corner. For these special occasions, finding the perfect outfit can take months and, even then, a formal look is never quite complete without one key accessory: a statement hat.
When it comes to statement hats, you need look no further than the royals for inspiration. There’s no doubt that the Princess of Wales and Duchess of Edinburgh have nailed the art of wearing hats down to a T. From dramatic wide brims to sophisticated straw boaters, every elegant outfit deserves a hat to match. (In fact, for Ascot it’s a requirement!)
Of course, hats come in all shapes and sizes and the style you opt for will depend on the setting. In our selection below, we have a classic straw boater from Reiss that would look perfect with a flowy maxi dress for sunny destination weddings. Or for something classic, we have a pink floral occasion hat from Coast, ideal for both Ascot and mothers of the bride. For something a touch more understated, John Lewis & Partner’s woven sun hat go beautifully with a maximalist formal dress. And if you’re looking for a pop of colour, we have you covered with an oversized red wide-brimmed hat from Karen Millen, or a cobalt blue alternative from Phase Eight, both of which would look gorgeous paired with a dress (or shoes) of the same shade.
Yes, that’s right – while the royals may rely on fancy milliners, you don’t need a royal budget to look the part. Our high street picks deliver elegance without the hefty price tag. Starting at just £59, there is a hat for every budget and taste. Shop our top picks below…
Phase Eight has elevated the classic boater hat with a playful pompom detail – it’s guaranteed to make an impression.
It’s easy to see why this is one of John Lewis & Partners’ bestsellers: the neutral shade makes it effortlessly versatile and chic, while the oversized ribbon detail adds the perfect finishing touch.
Coast has mastered the occasion hat, and this floral showstopper is sure to elevate any wedding or Ascot outfit. It’s also available in an equally stunning pale blue shade.
This one is for destination weddings, where grass and gazebos are replaced with sunsets and sand. Imagine pairing this straw boater with a flowy maxi dress, toes firmly planted in the sand.
In search of a bold pop of colour? Look no further than this bright red disc fascinator from Karen Millen. The wide brim creates a vintage-inspired silhouette, while the oversized bow adds a touch of drama.
For something simpler, this woven sun hat strikes the perfect balance between understated and elegant. It’s a perfect choice for protecting you from the sunshine in style during summer weddings.
This dramatic wide-brimmed hat is ideal for any formal occasion – the sculptural shape brings instant elegance. Meanwhile, the white brim paired with a pop of green is a beautiful combination for summer.
This stylish John Lewis hat with a downturned brim brings just the right touch of elegance. With an angled silhouette, it will look striking both head-on and from the side.
Bring a splash of colour to your look with this cobalt blue fascinator from Phase Eight. The oversized bow makes for the perfect statement detail.
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