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A Guide to Styling Headpieces for Weddings, The Races, and Gala Events
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posted by Stephanie Browne
A beautifully chosen headpiece can transform an outfit and complete your look with balance and personality. Whether you are a bride, or attending a gala or race day event, the right headpiece adds refinement and a sense of occasion. As headpieces continue to rise in popularity across Australia, there is growing interest in how to choose designs that suit the dress, hairstyle and style of event.
Stephanie Browne Australia has been creating artisan crafted headpieces for almost four decades, and this guide brings together the key styling insights that help clients select the perfect piece for their celebration.
Choosing Between Fascinators, Crowns and Combs
Different headpiece styles offer different moods and understanding their strengths makes choosing easier.
Fascinators
Fascinators often feel structured, sculptural and elegant. They sit confidently on the head and work beautifully at the races, gala events and sophisticated daytime celebrations. A fascinator can add height, movement and a sense of playful drama without overwhelming the outfit. They also photograph exceptionally well from every angle, making them a favourite for Melbourne Cup and Spring Racing Carnival guests.
Crowns and Headbands
A crown or race day headband works for both modern weddings and formal events. Brides often choose crowns for a princess moment, while event guests and race day attendees embrace bolder silhouettes with metallic accents or floral inspired designs.
On trend looks include Headbands that can be worn again, especially equine themed prove popular for understated elegance.
Crowns pair beautifully with sleek gowns, draped dresses and even tailored jumpsuits. A pearl or crystal headband can add a gentle shimmer that frames the face and compliments soft curls or polished up-styles.
Hair Combs
A hair comb is the most versatile of all. It is a favourite for brides, bridesmaids and mothers of the couple because it blends seamlessly into almost any hairstyle. Combs can be positioned at the side, tucked into a chignon or worn at the back for a subtle but refined finish. They are ideal when the goal is elegance without distraction, making them a wonderful option for black tie events as well.
Styling Headpieces for Weddings
For brides, the dress and hairstyle often determine which headpiece will feel the most balanced and compliment the look.
• Romantic lace or soft tulle gowns pair beautifully with delicate pearl combs or fine pearl crowns and headbands.
• Clean modern gowns invite more dramatic shapes such as sculptural crowns or sleek crystal headbands.
• Vintage inspired gowns look stunning with crystal combs and headpieces that echo old Hollywood glamour.
Mothers of the bride or groom often prefer understated elegance. A refined headband or a small comb with pearls or crystals adds polish without competing with the outfit.
Choosing a Headpiece for Race Days
Spring Racing Carnival is one of Australia’s most stylish seasons, and headpieces are essential.
Melbourne Cup Day
This is the day for bold choices. Sculptural fascinators, tall silhouettes and dramatic race day headbands and hats are all welcome. Crystal accents add sparkle without feeling too formal.
Derby Day
Traditionally monochrome, this event calls for crisp, structured shapes in black or white. Black jet and velvet can elevate a simple dress with ease.
Oaks Day
Often softer and more romantic, Oaks Day welcomes floral inspired pieces, pearl details and pastel tones.
Stakes Day
This event has a relaxed vibe, making it perfect for playful shapes and lighter silhouettes. Stephanie’s New Equine headband is a perfect finishing touch.
Race day headpieces should feel secure, comfortable and well balanced, especially if you expect to be outdoors for several hours.
Headpieces for Galas and Black Tie Events
For evening events, the goal is sophistication. Crystal headbands, low set crowns and refined combs add subtle light and elegance without overpowering the gown. Sleek hairstyles, polished waves and low buns all pair beautifully with these styles.
A handmade crystal headpiece can bring just the right amount of glamour, especially when paired with statement earrings and for Gatsby themed parties , Stephanie’s love for Art Deco shines bright with gorgeous hair pins, earrings, bracelets and stunning Art Deco headpieces.
The Role of Craftsmanship
A beautifully made headpiece will always elevate your look. Stephanie Browne’s designs are crafted and assembled by hand in Melbourne using her own designs of components, also sourced from around the world, Swarovski crystals and fresh water pearls one of the many semi-precious elements used in her designs. This level of craftsmanship ensures the piece sits comfortably, photographs beautifully and lasts for years.
When searching for a headpiece Australia wide, quality and creativity makes all the difference.
Find the Perfect Headpiece for Your Next Occasion
If you are searching for a headpiece for your wedding, race day event or gala celebration, browse the full Stephanie Browne collection online. From sculptural fascinators to elegant race day headbands and crystal headpieces handmade with care, each piece is designed to complement your style and elevate your outfit.
For personalised styling, Stephanie Browne offers one on one appointments at our flagship boutique in South Yarra, Victoria. Contact us to schedule a styling consultation or pop in and discover the perfect headpiece for your special event.
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