A sea of headpieces surrounds you. Styles ranging from Comb-Ins to Tiaras to Headbands and everything in between. Where do you even begin to start? During my client consultations I have found that headpiece selection is almost more difficult than wedding gown selection. The suggestions that follow should make selecting a headpiece less of a headache.

Consult with your hairstylist before you even venture out in search of a headpiece. Ask for their suggestions on what styles may be better choices for you, your hairstyle and wedding gown. First and foremost the headpiece you select should compliment your hairstyle and wedding gown not overwhelm them.

What type of hairstyle are you considering? Will you be wearing it all down, all up, half up and half down? The type of hairstyle you select should factor into the type of headpiece you select.

Pack up some hair bands, hairpins, a brush and a comb and head out to the bridal gown store with a friend. Have her help you mimic hairstyles you may be considering while trying on headpieces. (Hint: Where a plain white or light shirt. Avoid prints or plaids as they can be distracting and take focus away from the headpiece.)

When possible have the veil made to detach from the headpiece. Brides often tell me they wish that they had thought of that because once they start dancing and hugging, the headpiece tendsto be in the way. Check to see if the style that you select can include this option.

Are there places on the headpiece where hairpins can be used to secure it to your hairstyle? There have been times when, during the trial session, I notice that the headpiece has absolutely no elastic loops or inconspicuous spots where hairpins can be used to secure it to the hairstyle. My client says, "It felt secure while I was wearing it in the store." True as that may be, it will be have to stay in place all day long the day of your wedding.

Some brides are foregoing more formal headpieces and going with hair ornaments. Hair ornaments can include real or silk flowers, pearl or gold-bead hairpins which can be pinned into your hairstyle. A simple comb-in veil is then placed behind the hairstyle and can be easily removed when you start to dance the night away.

If you change your mind about the headpiece you select, will the bridal shop exchange it for one of equal or lesser value? One of my clients found this out the hard way. She selected a headpiece that had to be ordered. She called the bridal shop the very next day to say she may want to select a different style. The store would not allow it even though the one she selected had not yet been ordered. She now has a $400.00 headpiece she won't be wearing the day of her wedding.

If you shop at a reputable bridal gown store and are a careful consumer, finding just the right headpiece should be much, much easier. Good luck..

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