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Buckingham Palace Garden Parties

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It looks like the invites are now being sent out as we've had several enquiries over hats for this event already.

Over the course of each summer HM the queen will hold a series of garden parties at Buckingham palace over June and into July.

The invite states that hats and fascinators are to be worn by the ladies as there is the possibility of meeting the queen.

The etiquette is not as formal as Royal Ascot where hats of a certain size only (10cms and upwards) are admitted into the royal enclosure, and over the years I have sold hats and fascinators in all shapes and sizes for the garden party.

It is probably better to keep the brim small/medium rather than extra large as seen at the races. This ensures that not only is the hat easier to wear but that your eyes and face are in view when speaking to the other guests. I always feel this is not a good look if someone has to duck under your brim in order to speak to you!

If you think back to the queen mother and the queen herself always wore a smaller hat with an upturned brim on one side so that the face was visible. The younger royals frequently opt for a pillbox or percher style hat, again for ease of wear but also so they have a good peripheral view.

It really helps if you can bring your outfit into the shop when choosing your hat so that colours can be better matched and it always helps to see the whole look together when making your choice.

We sell many styles and colours for this event and all our new summer stock is now in store. It is also possible to add feathers dyed to match other colours in your dress.  Crystals or pearls can also be added to the hat depending on the embellishments on the dress or the jewellery you intend to wear on the day.

We look forward to seeing you for this wonderful event and helping you choose your perfect hat.