How to measure your head for a laurel wreath: a circumference guide
To order a comfortable, well-proportioned laurel wreath, it helps to provide your head circumference. Measuring takes only a few minutes, but the position of the tape and how it sits make a difference.
In this guide, we explain how to measure your head for a laurel wreath, which mistakes to avoid and what to include in your order if you are planning a voluminous hairstyle, buying a gift or need a particular size.
Why does the size of a laurel wreath matter?
A graduation wreath should stay in place without feeling tight. If the circumference provided is too small, it may be uncomfortable; if it is too large, it may slip down or move during the ceremony and photographs.
Every Corone Laureae wreath is handcrafted to order. Providing a reliable measurement helps our florists prepare a structure that suits the person wearing it and the chosen design.
What you need to measure your head circumference
The simplest tool is a soft dressmaker's tape measure. If you do not have one, use a non-stretch ribbon or a piece of string, mark where the ends meet and then measure the length with a ruler.
Avoid rigid tools and stretchy materials: the former do not follow the shape of your head well, while the latter can stretch and give a measurement smaller than the actual size.
How to measure your head in four steps
- Choose where you will wear the wreath. Picture its intended position during the ceremony, without placing it too high or too low.
- Pass the tape around your head. Keep it horizontal, normally just above your ears and across the part of your forehead where the wreath will sit.
- Keep a natural tension. The tape should sit snugly without being tight or loose. Do not pull it or leave extra space “just in case”.
- Repeat the measurement. Measure at least twice and note the result in centimetres. If the results differ, check the position of the tape again before sending the measurement.
Exactly where should the tape sit?
The position also depends on how you want to wear the wreath. Generally, the tape passes across the forehead, just above the ears and around the widest part of the head. What matters is following the actual line where the composition will sit.
If you prefer to wear it further back or slightly tilted, you can mention this in your order details. A photograph of the planned hairstyle or a short note can help if the fit you want is less traditional.
Hair down, an updo or a voluminous hairstyle?
Take the measurement in conditions as close as possible to those on graduation day. If you will wear your hair down, measure it that way. If you plan a low updo, braids or plenty of volume near where the wreath will sit, allow for the actual shape of the hairstyle.
There is no need to add centimetres at random: it is better to measure with the planned hairstyle and describe it in the details field. This keeps the measurement reliable and makes your request clearer.
Mistakes to avoid
- Measuring over a different hairstyle from the one you will wear at graduation.
- Pulling the tape too tightly to get a more “precise” measurement.
- Entering a hat size without checking your actual head circumference.
- Rounding the result considerably or adding space without mentioning it.
- Confusing centimetres with commercial sizes.
The most useful information is a circumference clearly stated in centimetres, together with any fit requirements.
What if the wreath is a gift?
If the wreath is a surprise, the best option is to obtain the measurement discreetly with help from someone close to the graduate. A measurement taken from a hat can only be a guide, as its shape, material and the way it is worn may differ from those of a wreath.
If you cannot measure the person's head, contact us before ordering: we will consider the available information and the most suitable design together, without presenting an estimate as an exact measurement.
Particular sizes, children and special wreaths
For a wreath intended for a child, an animal or a non-standard request, it is important not to use an adult measurement automatically. Include the age, actual circumference and any useful information in the dedicated product, or write to us before proceeding.
See the options in our Special Laurel Wreaths collection. Made-to-order craftsmanship allows us to consider the most suitable solution, but accurate information is essential.
When should you provide the measurement?
Enter it when personalising the product, together with the graduation date. Before completing the order, check that the value is complete and legible. If the measurement changes because you have chosen a different hairstyle, tell us as soon as possible.
To plan preparation and delivery properly, you can also read when to order your laurel wreath. For questions about shipping, care and personalisation, see our frequently asked questions.
A wreath lined with leaves on the inside too
The comfort of a laurel wreath also depends on how the inner part, which touches the head, is made. Any exposed wire or rigid elements can press against the head and feel uncomfortable, especially when the wreath is worn for a long time.
In the Corone Laureae workshop, we weave the leaves to cover the entire circumference, including the inside. This covers the structure so that the head rests against the softer leaves. This technique creates a visually continuous circle and a comfortable fit.
How to put it on and let it settle
A newly made wreath should not simply balance on your head. After placing it in the desired position, guide it into place with your hands, applying gradual, even pressure to the laurel ring while taking care not to squash the bow or decorations.
The inner leaves settle and adapt to the circumference, helping the wreath find a secure, comfortable position.
Settling it into place should not require excessive force or cause discomfort. If the wreath feels tight or does not sit correctly, contact us: do not try to widen or modify the structure.
Why we prefer a closed, made-to-measure wreath
Some wreaths can be opened, using loop fastenings or other systems that allow the size to be adjusted. For our creations, we prefer a closed structure, made to the circumference provided in the order.
This choice lets us maintain a continuous, even covering of leaves around the entire circle, without setting aside an area for an opening mechanism and its adjustment.
There is a practical reason too: an adjustable fastening needs care. If it is not secured correctly, it can loosen or open during use; the wreath could move or fall, making it necessary to adjust it during photographs or celebrations.
We therefore prefer to complete the structure and finishing in our workshop, delivering a wreath that is ready to wear, with no opening or fastening left to the person receiving it. It is one less thing to think about on graduation day.
This is why taking the measurement correctly is essential. Provide the actual head circumference, measured where you will wear the wreath and taking your planned hairstyle into account. Do not add centimetres “just in case”: an accurate measurement and the natural settling of the leaves help us achieve the desired fit.
Choosing a design after measuring
The circumference determines the fit; the style, ribbon and decorations express the personality of the person wearing the wreath. Once you have noted the measurement, you can compare classic designs, compositions with roses and wreaths with preserved flowers.
Discover all our handcrafted graduation laurel wreaths and include the circumference in centimetres in your order: starting with an accurate measurement is the simplest way to arrive at the ceremony with a beautiful, stable and comfortable wreath.