Maybe it's because they always make an outfit look just that little bit too pulled together and straight laced. Maybe it's because it's unusual to see people wearing them in this day and age and that means that you draw a lot of attention. I saw a lady on the tube the other day who was wearing a pink pillbox complete with mesh veil and corsage and I thought: wow! I also stared for ages.
Basically, it takes balls to wear a hat to anything other than church or horse races. You have to wear them with attitude or not at all. This relatively unobtrusive hat from Oasis is the perfect basis on which build an outfit or two. Wear it like a lady or be one of the boys.
Very lady
Tap into the 40s trend, make like Miss Marple and be all prim, proper and ladylike. Add a short fitted cardigan and gloves if you need extra warmth. Use a brooch to add interest to the hat like this diamante feather from Accessorize.
Click on image to enlarge. Oasis blouse, £32; Topshop skirt, £40; John Rocha coat, £90 and scarf £12 at Debenhams; Accessorize tights, £5 and brooch, £14; Faith court shoes, £45
One of the boys
I have always loved that androgynous yet well-dressed Annie Hall look and this hat brings it all together perfectly. With the mannish shirt and waistcoat, it's pure, full-on dandy. With a palette this sombre add interest around the neckline with an eye-catching tie or go for a silk cravat. I think cravats work better because they make a fatter knot and they cut a dash.
Click on image to enlarge. Jasper Conran shirt, £35 at Debenhams; Warehouse waistcoat, £40; Oasis tweed trousers, £50; Gap wool blazer, $79.99; Bromleys silk cravat, £35; Carvela shboots, £80
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Five of the best hats
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