The hats to wear now
Whether for events or everyday, there is more variety than ever when it comes to headwear, Olivia Buxton Smith discovers
Hats are tricky. No other item of clothing (not even jeans) requires as much searching. That said, there is a hat out there for everyone. Success is largely down to trial and error. While hats have long been necessities for formal occasions, this season saw headwear return to the fashion mainstream with rich inspiration to be found on the catwalks. A classic style is worth investing in, but if you’re keen to trial something a little more of the moment, the high street is awash with affordable options. These are the styles to try now…
Race-day hats
Look for a colour that won’t date and that you’ll be able to wear time and again, such as navy, cream, black or red. For off-the-peg designer options, head to Fenwick, where you’ll find the large Four Weddings and a Funeral styles, which are experiencing a revival, or sleeker options, such as disk hats. On the high street, John Lewis and the Debenhams Debut line have excellent, affordable ranges.
Beret
The pancake-shaped, rebel-favourite beret has been reinvigorated by Dior, where it has been the accessory of choice over the past three seasons. Meanwhile on the high street, Asos and French Connection both have classic woollen versions. A beret can look refined, too. Meghan Markle recently appeared in a cream Stephen Jones design, proving that you shouldn’t rule out the beret for your impending spring events.
Newsboy Caps
The newsboy hat is ubiquitous this season. Global fashion search platform Lyst has witnessed a 45per cent increase in searches for the style in the last month alone. Worn by Françoise Hardy and Brigitte Bardot, the caps have been re-energised by the likes of Susan Sarandon and Diane Kruger. For a classic take, head to Weekday (£18) or French label Saint James (£39). One of the most popular iterations is the Isabel Marant “Evie” cap (£110 from Net-a-porter).
Straw
Seek out straw styles that will work for both event season and sunny holidays. Ecuador-based brand Sensi Studio offers subtle-but-interesting designs. Awon Golding’s Panama (£270) would look great with a sleek trouser suit for a spring wedding. The boater is also having a resurgence; Lock & Co do a classic Henley-appropriate option (£135), and British milliner Jess Collett has a smart monochrome, embellished style (£270).
Turbans
Marc Jacobs created colourful, jewel-laden turbans which, although beautiful, sparked controversy in response to the designer’s use of starlets Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor as reference points, rather than the accessory’s African origins.
Oysho has polka dot and toffee linen turbans, both of which will look fabulous with a swipe of red lipstick. Or if you’re looking to invest , New York designer Jennifer Behr (stocked at Moda Operandi) does heavenly silk headbands and embellished turbans (from £300).