As a hat lover myself, I was almost bouncing in my seat watching so many hats and fascinators on the runway this spring! Hats and headpieces had been a staple in fashion for centuries. They have been worn for practical reasons – protection from the sun and cold weather – and less practical purposes. Since the 60s, in America hats have taken a backseat to other accessories such as jewelry and handbags. However, with the rise of streetwear and the return of vintage styles, hats are making a comeback in American fashion.
Ralph Lauren Spring 2023 Ready-to-Wear showcased hats for men and women without the formality often associated with hat-wearing occasions (think royal events, or Sunday mornings until the late 60s), instead embracing an outdoorsy vibe with western wide brims, ball caps, fedoras, and bucket hats. Salacious Fruit S/S’23 brought Japanese post-modern couture to the Midwest with structural and dainty fascinators. Cult Gaia elevated the western cowboy hat by recreating the statement silhouette in natural raffia and gold-tone hardware.
Does this breadth of hat design across markets and designers prelude a return to hat artistry of years past?
In 2022, The Zoe Report wrote about the summer’s best hat trends which included sun hats, visors, and again, the bucket hat. Saks Off Fifth and Macy’s carry budget-friendly fascinators that make adding the accessory to your wardrobe more justifiable than its thousand-dollar cousins available at Harrods. Who What Wear dove through runway shows and Instagram to identify the 6 styles of statement hats that will be big this summer.
So yes, it looks like hats are back in style. And yet, millinery is still out of reach for daily fashion for most American women. A wide brimmed hat is resigned to be an accessory for beach vacations, visors belong on tennis courts and golf courses, and fascinators are reserved for costumes, the race track, and royal family outings.
But I think you’ll find that there is a hat – and an outfit for that hat – for everyone! What runway shows and fashionistas of Instagram have heralded is a fascination with something fun and not entirely expected to update and accessorize your every day.
So why did hats fall out of fashion?
There are several reasons – political, environmental, and fashionable – that contributed to the decline in hat artistry in America. I highly recommend the below podcast episode – an interview with Nadine Stewart, author of American Milliners and Their World: Women’s Work from Revolution to Rock and Roll – and video!
How to Incorporate Hats into Your Every Day
Hats are a great way to add an extra element of style and personality, while also being practical. From fedoras to baseball caps and everything in between, there is sure to be a hat that suits your individual style. But how do you go about choosing the right hat for any given outfit and more importantly, the right hat for you?
1. Wear a hat that stands out:
Choose a statement piece with bold colors, unique shapes, or interesting textures to create an eye-catching outfit. If you’re wearing a hat, it will be noticed so go all in!
2. Make sure the hat complements your outfit:
The key is to pick a hat that matches and enhances your look without competing for attention.
3. Own it!
Confidence is always the best accessory, so don’t be afraid of taking risks and embracing new trends!
Finding the perfect hat for you
One of the most important things to consider when looking for a hat is fit. A good fit ensures that the hat sits comfortably on your head without squeezing and without blowing off at the slightest breeze. Additionally, the shape of the hat should be taken into account. Make sure to choose a hat with a shape that complements the features of your face. A good rule of thumb is to choose hats that contrast with the shape of your face in order to create balance.
Now let’s look at some of the different types of hats you can use for everyday outfits! First, there are fedoras. Fedoras are classic and timeless. They can be worn with casual outfits and add a sense of sophistication when paired with dressier pieces. Designers have brought wider brims, exciting colors, and luxurious textures.
Berets are another stylish choice for day-to-day wear. Berets come in various fabrics and colors, so you can choose one that best suits the look you’re trying to achieve. Whether you go for classic black or a colorful patterned beret, you’re sure to make a statement with this timeless accessory.
Sunhats & wide brim cloches are an absolute must-have for everyday glamor and practicality. Not only do they protect your face from the sun’s damaging rays, but they also add a touch of style to any outfit. The cloche is at its simplest the more dramatic cousin of the familiar bucket hat – There are sizes and fabrics to choose from so you can go super oversized and glamorous for an afternoon poolside or choose a more practical linen option complete with a drawstring for a day out and about in the garden or at an amusement park.
Fascinators are a great way to add some fun and flair to any special event. They come in a wide variety of styles, colors, and shapes, so you can be sure to find the perfect one to reflect your personality. Fascinators are typically worn on the side or back of the head and may be made of feathers, flowers, and ribbons.
Baseball caps are another popular option. Whether you’re looking for something sporty or more casual, baseball caps come in a variety of styles and colors. They can be styled with almost any outfit, making them a great choice for on-the-go looks.
Beanies are a classic accessory for cooler weather. Beanies come in lots of different warm fabrics and textures, making it easy to find one that matches your personal style. From neutral-toned knitted beanies to bright pom-pom hats, they’re sure to add an extra layer of fun and cozy during cooler months.
Finally, bucket hats are a great way to add a touch of fun and personality to an outfit. Depending on the fabric, they can look chic and stylish or relaxed and playful. They look great paired with a sundress or shorts and t-shirt combo.
