Hat’s On For Style!
If you’re like me the idea of the perfect hat seems like the Holy Grail of Fashion. Something we search for but when we finally find it what do we do with it? A hat can complement almost any ensemble but the key is what kind and just how do we get it up there without looking like we’re headed for a costume party dressed like a mime or Charlie Chaplin? Or worse, about to solve crimes with other little old ladies?
There are many considerations when contemplating a chapeau, a capello, or sombrero.
Your head, your hat!
You may be tempted by a hat style you’ve seen on a celebrity you admire. They can be a great source of inspiration whether it’s Fergie or Audrey Hepburn or even Lady Gaga! But don’t just pick a hat based on celebrity fashion; pick a hat based on what looks good on you and what you have in your closet. Americans wear hats only occasionally so choose one you’ll wear often.
Triangles, circles or squares?
The shape of your face should influence your choice of hats. Angled brims work well with round or square faces. This choice reduces the big head look you can get with larger crowns. Earrings will also complement the look but avoid long dangly chandeliers unless you like the fringed lampshade look. Stay clear of high or tall hats if you have a wide face however, you can try on hats with wider brims to balance your look. If you’re fortunate to have an oval face you can try almost any hat and look great. There’s just something about the symmetry of the oval that doesn’t conflict with most shapes and styles. Darn those oval faced girls! As with other face shapes a cute earring and a great lipstick always add pizzazz!
Pirates, Musketeers and Spies, oh my!
Tilting a hat will always enhance its look. Try several angles, back on the head or forward over the eyes and see it take on a new sass. Just make sure you’re not constantly moving your head around like a bobble head just to drive. No hat can fix that image. A hat leaning left or right can give that rakish, devil-may-care bit of attitude evoking Katherine Hepburn or even better, Lauren Bacall at her finest. So if at first you don’t succeed give that hat a nudge.
Hat head!
There are few ways to avoid hat head, unless your hair is pulled tightly back and secured. So be prepared to wear it until you return home and can nest for the rest of the day. That doesn’t mean your hair won’t play a part in hat style. A pulled back chignon or ponytail will complement a hat and show off those earrings. Wisps of curly bangs under a soft beret is oh so French and jolie! Tuck longer hair behind your ears and immediately eliminate that heavy, paparazzi-avoiding look.
Sassy meets Style!
Hats are a fabulous way to show style and distinguish yourself from the crowd. Whether it’s a beret, a fedora, cloche or newsboy, a hat will give you courage, enhance your wardrobe, start a conversation and get you noticed! Wear it with pride and you’ll never go wrong.