Tiaras and Childhood – The Princess Dream

Tiaras have existed since ancient times but were exclusively used by members of royalty. Wearing a tiara indicated being an individual of high distinction, or it was used during ceremonies involving the pope. As a wedding accessory, some studies have traced the early origins of wearing tiaras with wedding dresses to Queen Victoria. Over the centuries, with the discovery of less expensive materials and various forms of mass media, the use of a tiara had become more popular, more readily accessible and available to other sectors of the public.

In today’s society, it is not hard to find various avenues which play onto this trend. TV shows and movies depict grand weddings, glowing brides wearing flowing white dresses and tiaras. Bridal magazines are a staple for women planning to get married, filled almost to the brim with various wedding ideas and items. Websites have also become a powerful tool in presenting designs, ideas and suggestions, all related to wedding accessories and tiaras. Styles, designs and materials used in making these accessories have varied greatly, to accommodate a variety of preferences and budgets.

Women may be influenced by a variety of media types but kids are more easily impressionable by graphics and visuals. This is the reason why they are more influenced by what they see on television and in the movies as compared to any other forms of media. Their imagination and creativity is especially strong during this age and have a stronger tendency to copy what they watch on television and in movies. Cartoons are a common part of the television diet for kids and one of the more effective ways of influencing them.

There are those who would argue that various films made and released by Walt Disney have been the most successful in this aspect of influencing young girls to wearing tiaras. As the company is renowned for producing cartoons and movies safe for family viewing, these films have subconsciously influenced several generations of little girls into wearing tiaras, making them believe that it would make them look and feel like little princesses. Watching Disney classics such as Cinderella or Beauty and the Beast gave girls the dream that they could one day have the same happy ending as those in the movies.

Whether it was participating in beauty pageants or simply playing dress up, wearing a tiara has become a common part of the ensemble of pretending to be like a princess. It added to the impression of feeling more beautiful or a part of royalty. With the tiara continually being associated with the image of looking like a princess, these young girls grew up retaining the same perceptions. As women still holding the same ideals, they continued to want that dream of becoming a princess, even for just a moment. The wedding is one of the few instances where women can indulge themselves in wearing a tiara and being the center of attention. Incorporating the tiara as a part of the wedding ensemble makes them believe that dreams come true. The trend continues in much of Western societies and will continue to be a part of weddings for many more generations to come.