HATS OFF YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO THIS YEAR’S KEY MILLINERY TRENDS

Don’t ruin a great outfit by simply plonking any old feathered creation you pulled out of your top cupboard on your head. A little time spent considering options that flatter you and your look is time well spent. For Ascot in particular, a headpiece, hat or fascinator is a necessity (these need to have a base of four inches or more for the Royal Enclosure), so it’s worth trying on a few (always with the rest of your outfit and in a fulllength mirror) or having a bespoke headpiece made by a specialist milliner. We asked three of the best for their advice.

Don’t let your hat compete for attention

“If you’re wearing a pattern, go with a block coloured hat that picks out a shade from your outfit,” advises Rosie Olivia. “For a minimal look, choose something striking that will add an edge.” Remember that you’ll be wearing your hat all day, so comfort is essential. Olivia adds that “the key to finding the right hat is a good fit, then have a bespoke trim or fabric made to suit your look”.

Balance your proportions

“Think about the overall shape of your look,” says William Chambers. “If your dress is long, try a perching piece that keeps the look elegant. For knee-length dresses and jackets, try a brimmed hat to add a formal touch.”

Go for something fun

Summer events are a fitting time to be experimental with your accessories. “Sweeping brimmed hats with soft feminine lines, and delicate pillbox hats with net are big trends for this summer,” explains Rachel Trevor Morgan. “Flowers, as always, feature heavily, but this time there are eclectic floral mixes to add interest.”