The hat has been a staple of fashion since it was invented. Useful as a means of protecting the wearer from the elements, it has also been a way of distinguishing class and culture. Though it is not worn everyday by men and women as it once was, it is still a staple of style. There are different styles of hats for different occasions. Ladies and gentlemen wear hats to the Kentucky Derby (US) or Epsom Derby (UK) as par for the course. Women still wear hats to church services as well. Caps are worn as part of the uniform of certain sports such as baseball or cricket. Young people wear caps that represent their favourite sport teams as well.
Fedora
The fedora is staple of the fashion world with a long history as a hat style. It is felt with a wide brim and an indentation on the crown and is easily recognisable for this. It usually has a ribbon that around it that ends in a bow. This style has been popular since the late 1800s and is still being worn today. The fedora goes with almost any outfit and can be worn casually or in a formal setting. Although men traditionally wore these hats, women now wear them as well and look quite sharp in them.
President Barack Obama in the classic Fedora style. Courtesy thebolditalic.com
Flat Cap
The flat cap is quite a popular style for men to wear as a hat style. It is not appropriate for formal ocassions but is usually worn on casual days in the countryside or going shopping in the town. One of the most famous fans of this style is Brad Pitt who can be seen wearing it quite often. It is often called the newsboy cap (although that is a different style )because of the popularity of the style with boys who would sell the newspapers. The newsboy cap is actually rounder with a button on top.
The flat cap. Courtesy of Asos
Beanie
These are knitted caps that are worn to keep the head warm especially during winter months. These hat styles can be worn under hoodies as well. These can be worn by both men and women. It’s great for those days when you don’t feel like styling your hair but want to go out. This is a great hat for days when you want to be very casual in your dressing.
Girl wearing beanie. Courtesy of BeanieVille
Man wearing beanie hat style. Courtesy of Pinterest
Baseball Caps
This is the most popular option for young people as a hat style. Besides baseball teams, this hat is popular as a way of showing support for companies, non-profits, schools and events. Some of the most popular caps are for the New York Yankees with JayZ making it a signature part of his style. Teams such as the Boston Redsox also have many fans wearing caps in their honour.
JayZ in his trademark NY Yankees cap. Courtesy of Pinterest
Fascinators
Fascinators have become the latest and the most popular hat style amongst the ladies on formal occasions. They have been made popular by the Duchess of Cambridge especially before her wedding to Prince William. She would wear many bespoke fascinators with feathers and silks.
Duchess of Cambridge. Courtesy of Pop Sugar
