Typically, when we think of accessories, we immediately think of three big pieces: handbags, shoes, and jewelry. When I get dressed in the morning - after I've chosen what I'm going to wear, of course - I'll likely put on some jewelry, pick out a pair of shoes, and tuck all my clothes into them. Pack your daily essentials into the right wallet. If it was winter, maybe I would bring a scarf and some gloves for extra protection from the windshield and cold temperatures. If it were summer, maybe I would pick up a pair of sunglasses. But for some reason, there’s one accessory that always gets overlooked among the rest: hats.
Hats are easily overlooked compared to the practicality of shoes and handbags. Everyone needs shoes to walk, and a bag can store all the items you would otherwise have to carry alone. Having said that, hats are very useful when it comes to protecting your head from heat, cold or rain. Plus, they're a staple styling piece. Saint Laurent and Max Mara's spring 2015 ready-to-wear collections saw models strutting down the catwalk wearing headdresses. So maybe this trend is making a comeback.
If the endless jokes about royal tiaras and recurring Pharrell buffalo hat headlines have taught you anything, it's that hats have the power to make a statement. Whether it's a unique Philip Treacy hat, a vintage baseball cap, or an original Coco Chanel (yes, she started her fashion career as a milliner designing hats!), hats have an effortless, natural quality that conveys and enhances style. And it reveals a lot about the wearer. While different types of hats have different personalities, the same goes for when someone wears them on their head. Less like a “thinking hat” your second-grade teacher told you, and more like a beret to make you feel like a French spy, or a red, square-checked hunting hat to make you feel like Watchmen Holden Caulfield in . rye .
While there are many types of hats, here are 14 types that will not only inspire you but also encourage you to try a classic hat yourself. You never know which one might suit your preferences.
1. baseball cap
Who better to be inspired by that than our own president? President Barack Obama looks stylish and handsome in his FBI baseball cap, and his bright smile perfectly complements the laid-back, casual vibe that the cap exudes. They're easily one of the most accessible types of hats on the market, but if you can't find a hat you like in a store, ask the man in your life if you can borrow one. They are guaranteed to have at least three pieces in their wardrobe.
2. hat
Beanies have a terrifying ability to ruin or improve the condition of your hair. Because beanies fit snugly against the head, they are often suitable for those who prefer to sleep for a few extra minutes instead of doing their hair. That being said, if you have long, curly hair and you want to try something different, a bright, pretty beanie might just become your new best friend. There's no guarantee you'll look as cute as JT though.
3. Beret
Karlie Kloss looked gorgeous as ever at the Ralph Lauren Fall 2014 show, walking the runway in an all-white head-to-toe ensemble. But in fact, not only are her shoes white, but so is her classic beret. While I'm sure you can rock this hat in any color or pattern you want, just make sure to tilt it to one side. Unless you wear it like a beret, it's not a beret. Don’t be afraid to practice your French either.
4. Rower
Flat caps can easily be dismissed just because of their name. "Why should I wear a flat hat, I'm not a flat hat." While I'm sure that's exactly what you're thinking, I encourage you to give these top hats a try. Their flat tops and flat brim are usually made of straw or similar materials and provide a stylish or even preppy look when paired with structured clothing.
5. Fisherman hat
Bucket hats receive a lot of criticism. While they may often be made fun of or put into the "as embarrassing as a fanny pack" category, they are making a comeback. Even Samuel L. Jackson liked the fact that bucket hats are lightweight, breathable and practical for a day in the sun and need some fun head protection. Round sunglasses are optional.
6. Bowler Hat
As if Prince Harry wasn't chic enough, just look at him wearing this classic bowler hat. While the hat is correctly identified as a bowler hat—rounded and slightly larger at the top, with an upturned brim—people often mistakenly use the term to describe a fedora or pork pie hat. While bowler hats may be formal, they are a very cheerful and charming piece. Plus, they'll come in handy if you marry Prince Harry.
7. Peaked cap
Most commonly confused with a beanie, a dome hat has a "poof" shape on the top. These hats are honestly the cutest and cutest of the bunch. Easily available and designed in a variety of shapes and sizes, puff hats are ideal for adding pizzazz to your winter look. Currently, I’m loving the faux fur pom on a neutral knit base.
8. Chupala
Another type of straw hat, chupallas, originated in Chile and have the same shape as the flat hat, but with a significantly wider brim. While I admit that you may have never heard of chupalla before, and may never hear of it again, I noticed them because many modern style hats - especially those seen recently - feature chupalla shape. Chiara Ferragni of The Blonde Salad recently shared a photo of herself wearing a wide-brimmed hat that closely resembles a chupalla. If only it were made of straw...
9. Cowboy hat
Does this photo give the impression that you wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Kate Middleton started speaking with a Southern accent? While I'm sure the Duchess doesn't usually wear cowboy hats, they certainly suit her. Arguably one of the most recognizable forms of hats, cowboy hats may have been originally designed to protect American cowboys from the sun while working on farms, but they can easily be paired with bohemian, natural styles.
10. Fedora hat
Ah, the infamous fedora. Fedora hats most commonly have a shorter brim, a folded top, and a ribbon around the bottom. It's easy to call any suede bonnet with a ribbon a fedora, but it's the unique swallow-shaped top that makes them so different from other hats. There's no doubt that a fedora hat can take an outfit to the next level, so don't be afraid to invest in one next time you see someone staring at you.
11. Pork Pie Hat
There's no denying that pork pie hats are very similar to fedoras and have the same effortless chic vibe. That being said, these hats usually have more embellishments and accessories. Pork pie hats may feature brooches, pins or feathers, usually just to complement the turned-up brim and flat top. If you're a fan of fedoras but hate the hat that goes with them, you can call your fedora a "pork pie hat." You have my permission.
12.Sailor hat
While everyone wants to look as cute as Katy Perry in a sailor hat, it's not a very practical look. Unless you drive boats for a living—or are Katy Perry—you probably avoid wearing a sailor hat. That being said, they're the perfect excuse to be a sailor for Halloween. Hey, it never hurts to plan early. correct?
13. Top hat
Top hats don’t just belong to Abraham Lincoln! Props to him for leaving a pretty cool legacy on this hat though. While you might think the president or "virgin-like"—sorry, Madonna—the top hat is undeniably classy and cool. Ironically, they are most commonly worn, yet they hold so much potential - especially in the context of rock and punk.
14. Ushankar
No need to rub your eyes. Yes, that's Jay-Z and Queen Beyoncé - you bet - wearing ushanka. While you might just recognize ushanka by calling it a fur hat, the real name will just bring out your bad Russian accent. But who wouldn’t want that? Plus, if Jay-Z can rock a brown ushanka, surely you can too. The only thing better is that Beyoncé has a matching one.
So the next time you head out with your shoes on, your bag packed, and your jewelry on, try incorporating a hat into your look. They may often be left behind, but they must never be forgotten.
Image: Getty; Jiffy; Instagram
