Tomorrow I’m attending Victoria Derby Day, the first day of the Melbourne Cup Carnival and I am in a bit of a flap because I STILL have no outfit… I have about 3 hours to find one this evening when I land! Over the past week, I’ve been poring the internet trying to find some inspiration so that this evening’s challenge is a bit more focused. What I’m most excited about is getting to wear a hat! Last time I wore a hat was at my friend’s wedding in August and I felt like a really sophisticated wedding guest in it! Dressing for an Irish wedding is not too dissimilar to dressing for Ladies Day at the races and even though I’m aware that other countries don’t doll up to the nines like we do at home, I thought it would make for some fun inspiration on a Friday. For me, an outfit begins with the hat and given that black and white is traditionally worn for Victoria Derby Day, I thought it was the best place to start.

Wedding Hats

I always start with the hat. It’s my favourite thing and depending on how simple or extravagant the design, it allows me to think carefully about the shape and detail I’m looking for in a dress. If I had an unlimited budget, this would be my dream outfit for Derby Day. Philip Treacy is truly a creative genius and I’m still puzzled as to why his hats do not have a museum of their own. I remember going to see an exhibition of his drawings in Dublin years ago and  it has stuck with me since. I love this side hat with flower detailing and think it would speak for itself paired with the Gorgeous Grace Dress from French Connection,  Brian Atwood suede and chain detailed pumps and a simple satin clutch from Monsoon. Other amazing top end milliners that I love are Jane Taylor and Yvette Jelfs.

I have had a berry crush for quite some time now and it’s a colour combination that so many people can get away with. It will also see you through all of the seasons, which can only be a win win! The Reny Kestal Cocktail Hat is so smart and the strong colour is balanced by the biscuit shade of this Riley Dress, these statement earrings and suede high heel courts from Dune.

Gosh, I love this last hat, the Greta from Jane Taylor. The butterfly detail is divine. Pair it with a cream or biscuit coloured pencil dress like this one from LK Bennett and you’re on to a winner.  The ankle strap shoe and simple clutch finish off this classy look!

Friday’s FAB 5

✈ Our Amelie-inspired wedding shoot in Paris

✈ Dreaming in France

✈ Indian beach wedding

✈ Week before your wedding to do list

✈ NYC engagement

Hopefully you didn’t miss out on anything from us this week but just incase you couldn’t stop by… we kicked off the week with some beautiful bridal gown inspiration on Monday followed by a gorgeous Florence Picnic Shoot on Tuesday. We caught up with Alex and Lisa on Wednesday when we shared their Moroccan inspired wedding in Marrakech and finally, yesterday, we kind of got into the festive spirit with some Halloween wedding ideas and colours. 

Have a wonderful weekend lovely people. Can’t wait to be back next week! x

The post Beautiful and Sophisticated Wedding Hats ✈ Friday’s FAB 5 appeared first on Fly Away Bride.