In an effort to prepare for the next Royal Wedding, Kentucky Derby, and/or Central Park Conservancy Hat Luncheon, I went on a hat shopping adventure at The Hat Shop on Thompson St. with my friend and fellow blogger Princess Diane von Brainisfried. Not only did I get to catch up with one of my most beloved Twitter pals, I also learned a lot of about the art behind wearing and choosing the perfect hat for your next high society event.
Your hat should be worn one finger length above your eyebrow. Contrary to popular belief, not all small hats are fascinators. A facinator is characterized as a headpiece with feathers because feathers are fascinating. The small hats you often see are called cocktail hats. As I discovered today, I look best in cocktail hats. Throughout the store, many of the hats themselves have names of their own such as “Pinky Goes to the Races,” “Audrey,” and “Ivy.” “Ivy” was my favorite hat (pictured above.)
Diane and I looking ready for a high society garden party
A haute couture witch’s hat
Diane in a couture hat named “Pinky Goes to the Races”
Me in my second favorite cocktail hat. It looks like a mini mad hatter hat from Alice in Wonderland!
The Hat Shop located downtown at 120 Thompson St. (btw. Prince & Spring) is a full service millinery shop and top notch socialite destination.
Waking up at 4 a.m. was totally worth it! As suspected Kate Middleton walked down the aisle in Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen followed by her sister and maid of honor, Pippa, also wearing Sarah Burton. Kate did her own makeup, which looked wonderful. I also really liked that she wore her hair down. As I watched the guests arrive at Westminster Abbey, I fell in love with the hats and the fascinators. I totally wish we did that here in the United States. I may have to call on Philip Treacy to design me a hat for the next wedding I attend. Aside from being the “Socialite Superbowl,” this wedding was truly a celebration of love and tradition. Along with millions of women (and grown men) around the world, I shed a few tears as they said their vows. The royals are often trendsetters for us socialites here in New York. As they break convention and embrace the people, we will do the same. Congratulations again to Will and Kate. May you live long happy lives together.