Headpiece Glossary

The headpiece you choose for your walk down the aisle can change the entire mood of your gown. Play princess in a sparkling tiara, be bohemian in a flowery garland or go grown up with a chic chapeau. The key to finding the right style for you is to try on as many different models as you can find. Bring along a swatch of fabric or a photo of your dress, the accessories you plan to wear and even the bouquet you’d like to carry. That way, you’ll get a sense of which headpiece will work best. Here’s the lingo you’ll need to know to get started:

Backpiece

A barrette or comb that fastens to the back of the head, to which the veil is then attached. The backpiece is often decorated with flowers, beads or bows.

Bunwrap

Fairly self explanatory, the bunwrap is a circular band that encircles a bun or updo.

Comb

As the name implies, this type of headpiece is held to the head with comb teeth for extra security. It can either be attached to a veil and worn on top of the head, or adorned with flowers and beads and used to cap off an upswept hairstyle.

Crown

Different from a tiara, a crown is a full circular piece that sits atop the head and is adorned with stones, gems or beads.

Half Crown

Smaller than a crown, but greater in height than a tiara, the half crown is a half circle of jewels that sits atop the head.

Headband

A band of varying width that closely follows the shape of the head.

Juliet Cap

A small round cap that fits snugly on top of the head, usually decorated with pearls or semi-precious stones.

Snood

A knitted or openwork net that encases the hair at the back of the head.

Tapered Headband

A half circle band worn on top of the head, characterised by a wider middle and tapered ends.

Tiara

A tiara is a jeweled or beaded semi circle worn on top of the head.

Wreath

A romantic, organic look the wreath, also known as the garland, features a full circle of flowers, twigs, foliage or ribbon resting on the crown of the head.