Theme and competition explanation

A competition theme that challenges you to truly show what you can do. Perhaps the most difficult assignment in the history of the NHV. During the Hat Competition 2026, with the theme “Say Hat to the Dress!”, hat designers and enthusiasts are challenged to let their creativity run free.

Pippi Bridal Boutique, in collaboration with the bridal fashion brand Modeca, has put together an exclusive selection of three dream dresses for the NHV Hat Competition 2026. We provide you with a so-called 'blank canvas,' 'a white cloth,' which in this case happens to also be white in color. White remains the color of the bride, but in 2026 it will take on a bold twist: the hat as the crown of the look. Forget the classic veil, tiara, or traditional hairstyle; this year it's all about the hat.

We describe the appearance of the dress. You, as a participant, show the jury, the guests of the competition show, and many visitors to the exhibition how you bring this assignment to life. Sign up, show what your vision of a bridal hat is, and explain why your design completes the look of the chosen dress.

The Hat Competition 2026 challenges designers, artists, and fashion enthusiasts to create a unique, handmade hat that complements, enhances, and makes one of three specially selected wedding dresses shine. Not just an accessory, but an expression of character, courage, and style.

Let yourself be inspired by the silhouette of the dress, the texture of the fabric, or the feeling that the design evokes. Whether you choose a classic fascinator, a sculptural showstopper, or a playful interpretation, the hat must perfectly complement the chosen wedding dress and make the bride shine on the day of her life. Note: The choice of dress is made at registration and cannot be changed.

Everyone with a passion for fashion, craftsmanship, and creativity is welcome to participate. It doesn't matter whether you are an experienced hat maker or a fashion enthusiast who enjoys experimenting with materials, the NHV Hat Competition provides a platform where imagination and craftsmanship come together.

Please note: The choice of dress is made at registration and cannot be changed.

Competition conditions

Under the heading competition conditions, you will find all the information about the NHV Hat Competition 2026. Read these terms and conditions carefully: this way you’ll be sure that you have a chance to place among the top ten or even the winning three designs!

Participation

Everyone is welcome to enter the competition, whether you are a hobbyist, a professional, advanced or a novice milliner, living within the Netherlands or abroad. 

An annually-changing professional jury will nominate ten hats from all the entries on the basis of originality, quality and millinery craftmanship. From these ten, the three winning designs will be chosen.

Registration is open from November 17,2025. As always, there are only fifty spots available. Maximum 25 per dress. Participating designs must have arrived at the submission address no later than March 14th, 2026.

Hat show and exhibition

The Hat Show will take place at Kasteeltuinen Arcen (Limburg) on May 9th, 2026. The winners will be announced after the hat show. Afterwards, the competition hats will be exhibited untill June 1st 2026 in Arcen where visitors can cast their vote for the audience award.

Costs

The participation fee is € 62,50 for members and € 77,50 for non-members Dit is exclusief de kosten voor het retourzenden. Participants will have free access to the opening show in May 2025 and will receive a photo booklet featuring all submitted designs after the show. Subscribe here

Jury

Meet the jury later!

Prizes

Information will follow.

Our partners

Pippi Bruidsboutique – for the bride with her own style

In the heart of Venlo, you will find Pippi Bridal Boutique, the store of Gini Peters where wedding fashion radiates personality and joy. No standard dresses, but a collection full of character: from stylish dresses to modern suits and playful jumpsuits. Brands like Modeca, Marylise, and Rembo Styling form the foundation, complemented with accessories and much more to complete the bridal look. At Pippi, it’s all about relaxed fittings, honest advice, and most importantly, daring to be yourself.

More information: www.pippibruidsboutique.nl

Modeca – Dutch design full of love and elegance

Since 1946, Modeca has been designing wedding dresses that strike the perfect balance between romance and modern style. The Dutch brand is known for its elegant silhouettes, refined fabrics, and subtle details that give each dress its own character. From bohemian to classic chic, Modeca celebrates love in all its forms. The collections are designed with attention to craftsmanship and fit, so that every bride feels confident and radiant on her big day.

More information: www.modeca.com

Kasteeltuinen Arcen - A flower-filled wedding venue

Getting married in a fairytale setting at Kasteeltuinen Arcen. Amidst flower gardens, water features, and the stately castle, Kasteeltuinen Arcen provides the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding. From a stylish reception on the castle square to a romantic ceremony among fragrant roses, every corner exudes romance. The various gardens offer endless photo opportunities, while the annual hat competition adds a stylish nod to fashion and creativity. Kasteeltuinen Arcen: where love, nature, and history come together.

Meer informatie: www.kasteeltuinen.nl

Submission of Entries

For all participants, your competition hat must be received at the submission address no later than March 14th, 2026. The delivery address will be sent to you after registration.     

Please weigh your parcel and measure its dimensions before shipping. We need this information to calculate the return shipping costs of your hat. Shipping will take place after receipt of these shipping costs.

We ask you to submit photos of and information about your competition hat twice; (1) printed on A4 paper in your mail package and (2) digitally, using this form.

Information on what we ask you to provide can be read here: competition conditions.

Questions?

Do you have any questions? Send an e-mail to wedstrijd@nederlandsehoedenvereniging.nl.

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