With wedding season and race season upon us, it's time to invest in the perfect hat to top off your formal outfits.But with so many different styles, where to start? London-based milliner Edwina Ibbotson, who is one of Pippa Middleton's favourite designers, tells us that while "I do not agree with firm rules regarding hats and face shapes", there are a few guidelines that will help with choosing the right hat for you.Here are her top tips...
If you have a long, thin face...Go for a shorter crown and a wider brim rather than an upstanding cocktail hat which will elongate your face even more.If you have a round face...I would advise a larger hat or a larger based cocktail hat with something to give additional height and a little width to balance the proportions.
Petite ladies with small features should...Choose a smaller, upturned hat with delicate trimming. But really, petite ladies can get away with almost anything apart from a huge oversized downturned brimmed hat – this might overwhelm you.If you want to be adventurous...Choose a statement hat – but make sure you don't choose a hat that ends up overwhelming you.
Try on as many hats as possible...That's the only way you will know what suits you. Plus, hats always look better on a head rather than on a head stand.Learn the proper placement...This is extremely important. Before you leave the shop, make sure the milliner has shown you exactly how to place and anchor the hat. Take a picture so you can show your hair stylist how it should be positioned.Edwina's studio is based in Battersea, London. To learn more, visit her website at edwinaibbotson.co.uk.
The Investec Derby on Saturday 6th June is part of the QIPCO British Champions Series. For tickets go to britishchampionsseries.com