Picking The Perfect Tiara

So where do you start? there are so many out there and you just don't know what to choose!

Firstly remember this: Your tiara is a small but very important part of your whole ensemble and it is equally as vital to pick the right one as it is everything else for your special day, after all for many women this may be the only chance of wearing one and you want it be perfect and to feel like a princess. They are all beautiful pieces of jewellery but not every piece will achieve the effect you desire and having the right accessories will complete your whole look and make you feel as special as you deserve to, after all it is your big day.

Before you start, make sure you have chosen your dress, it may have certain crystals, bead work, colours or designs you need to match your tiara too. Also you should have a fair idea of how you are wearing your hair as this will also have a large effect on the piece you choose as not every tiara goes well with every hair style.

Your face shape also has an significant factor to play in this, for instance if you have a long face you are best going for a headband or something that has little or no height to it. If you have a round face, choose a tiara that does have some height or one with a peak, this will elongate your face. Oval face shapes should avoid anything with a peak, a comb, headband or something with limited height is best. If you have a full face, wear a tiara with a V peak creating the illusion of lengthening your face shape.

Your options

•Tiara - without a doubt the most dramatic look, they are a stunning accent to any wedding dress, may it be a traditional ball gown or simple and contemporary.
•Headband - this is a more functional look, perfect if you are wearing your hair down or for shorter hair styles. A lot of brides also choose these for their bridesmaids.
•Comb - the less formal option, but not necessarily the less sparkly option.
•If you look in the right places. Great with most hair styles and can be incorporated anywhere into many hair styles.
•Hair Vine - a versatile option, these can be worn anywhere in your hair and can even be weaved into a hair style by your hairdresser.
•Hair Pins - Create your own look, these can be worn anyhow, as many or as little as you like, very popular for beach and garden weddings

As with your dress, it is of importance to shop around. Check out specialist stores, bridal shops with a good range and specialist websites. Take your time choosing one, try as many as you can even if you buy from a website, having had the type of style you want on your head will help you make an informed decision. Don't go for the first one you see, it may be a stunning example but just because it looks good it isn't necessarily going to be suitable for your dress or hairstyle.


Another good option when looking is to visit any local wedding fayres being held, companies will have stock on display and will happily help with any questions you may have.

When your shopping for your perfect tiara, try to take material samples and a picture of your dress and hairstyle with you, it will give you more reassurance when you are buying, there's nothing worse than finding something and thinking "well, I think it will matches my dress" then getting home and realising it doesn't... don't worry, we have all done it at some point! Also, if you have already bought any other jewellery your wearing on the day, take this with you too.

Are you wearing a veil? This will have a small bearing on your selection so if you are having one take it with you or ask in the shop if they have one you can user when you're trying. Make sure what you're looking at in the mirror when you decide is the finished effect. A lot of women don't wear their veil all day so choosing a hair vine or pins can give your hair style a new lease of life and a totally different look for your evening do. There isn't really any limitations to your choice of type, but style will come in to it.


"I've done all this, I know what I want and I just CANT find it anywhere....."

There are a number of specialist sites on the internet are dedicated to offering brides a bespoke service, they will be able to give you a completely personal service and a tiara designed specifically for you and your needs. Many of them can also match make other accessories for you too.

Be aware of what your buying, some items won't last long or will tarnish quickly or break easily if they are poorly made or have not been made with good materials. Ask about the materials the product has been made from; silver, pearls, Swarovski etc. Most wedding jewellery is delicate and need to be treated with care, but you must be sure what your buying is quality and worth what your paying for it. This is another advantage to shopping around, ask friends and family for personal experiences with shops and of your buying online then try and find reviews on the company your thinking of purchasing from.

Once you have got your perfect tiara, take it with you when you have your trial run at the hairdressers, as well as your veil (if you're wearing one) This will give the opportunity for you to make sure your 100% happy with the look and if not, well then you have time to make some adjustments.

Most tiaras, combs etc will come in a protective box. Make sure you store them safely. The can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Ask the company you purchase from about proper preservation and cleaning for your perfect tiara.

In parting, remember to have fun with every aspect of planning your wedding and try not to agonise over the particulars, it's all part of the atmosphere and build up to what will be such a special day for you both.

Author: Sam Gilbert