Royal Wedding Hats Are an Old Tradition in African-American Churches

As Prince William and Catherine Middleton are set to wed Friday morning, one thing people will be paying attention to other than the happy couple are the variety of hats wedding guests will be wearing.

The British Royal trend of wearing hats has topped the headlines in recent weeks as excitement built for the Royal Wedding. 

Whether it is a big floppy hat with flowers or a small feathered headband, hats are making a statement. Yet, manager Vera Akinboboye said hats have also been a fashion statement in African-American churches.

On Sunday, the "church" hat can be predominately seen on the head of many African-American women headed to services.

Akinboboye said the tradition goes back to something stated in the Bible.

"The Bible said women should cover their head," she said.

She said the kind of hat someone wore depended on their taste, sophistication and partially their wealth.

"Hats can be expensive," Akinboboye said. "It becomes a part of the show."

As for the recent media frenzy on British hats, she said people in London may be buying and wearing hats because they want to feel a part of the Royal Wedding.

"But in America, (African-American) women wear hats to go to church, funerals and weddings — it's a sign of respect," she added.

Although Akinboboye carries some church hats in her boutique, which sells accessories, purses, shoes and African fabrics, she said her customers' demand for church hats hasn't increased because of the Royal Wedding.