A wedding invite calling for headwear may once have sent a shiver down your spine, conjuring visions of fussy fascinators and flower-laden hats. But the wedding hat deserves a second chance. Just let Jackie O be your muse.

For both brides and guests, there is something suddenly very cool – and absolutely unstuffy – about the wedding hat. It’s all about the choice of silhouette, and keeping the rest of the styling contemporary and considered.

Neat pillbox designs make a confident retro statement, whether paired with a sleek skirt suit or an ankle-skimming gown. Keep the hair tucked behind the ears or swept into a low bun to let its shape register. Softer, wide-brimmed styles have a little Bianca Jagger nonchalance and work particularly well with fluid tailoring or a simple slip dress.  

The trick is to give the hat space: keep the neckline uncluttered and jewellery selective, letting the shape do the work. 

Below, our fashion team selects their favourites for the season ahead.