Hats Galore

by Mandi Pimental

I believe hats get the short end of the stick.  Written off as a secondary accessory, the hat is sometimes an afterthought, just an inanimate object we use to cover up a bad hair day, or a rogue pimple.

However, this season we are turning that all around.  Top designers dug deep into their style arsenals and gave us looks that can only be described as a “must-have”.  No longer an accessory to throw into the back of your closet, once you turn your peepers to some of the top styles for fall 2014, you’ll want to display them front and center, and you’ll wear them proudly, even if your hair looks ravishing, and your forehead is flawless.

Not only does headwear spice up any ensemble, it also keeps you warm.  As we say goodbye summer, and hello chillier temps, a hat is a good idea when you’ll be headed outdoors.  We take a look at six styles and highlight the pro’s that each style has to offer this season.

First off, the universal knitted beanie and pom-pom knits.  Ralph Lauren, Tak Ori, and Tommy Hilfiger showed an array of options.  Comfy and casual, the beanie is number one when it comes to keeping your head and ears toasty warm.  Available in an array of colors, patterns and sizes, the beanie is a versatile knitwear piece that works best with sweaters, jackets and for outdoor sporting events.  The beanie is also a great option for women that have rounder face shapes.

Next, the classic beret presents a European aesthetic that is so charming.  John Galliano and Rodarte showed the beret in bright, fun colors, adding a pop of artistry to a more neutral ensemble.  Perfect with dressier looks, and cocktail attire, look for berets in mustard, plum or crimson for added depth in this sweet style.  You can also opt for a beret that features subtle sparkle or a brooch.

A trend that has taken over runways from head to toe is fur and faux fur.  The ultimate in comfort and warmth, fur headwraps, hoods, and traditional fur caps are surely a winner.  Daks and Fendi presented beautiful options that were luxurious and feminine.  Head wrap styles also compliment a wide range of face shapes.

Also in the glam category is a more couture look, and that is the chador.  The traditional and ornate pieces were seen on the Dolce and Gabbana runway, as well as a few other fashion houses, making us all wonder,  just exactly where would we wear such an exquisite piece?  Holiday parties are fast approaching, and the idea of being adorned with jewels and beads sounds fitting.  Right?

In contrast, there were casual options seen on the runways as well.  The traditional cap got a makeover by AF Vandevorst who created them from ultra-soft felt, rounding the top and fitting it below the brow line. Sportier, brighter cap options were presented by DKNY and DSquared while Moncler Gamme Rouge gave us pure femininity.

Last but not least, we bring you the traditional “Classic”.  Though varying in style, the classic collections ranged from vintage bowlers by Armani to Asian-inspired looks by Christian Siriano with their exaggerated brims. Tibi delivered Amish style hats while Ralph Lauren presented classic fedoras.

The beauty in all of this is the love designers are showing for the hat this season.  It’s giving us more options than ever.  From the runway to store shelves, there truly will be an option for everyone.  A hat for every face shape, every outfit, and every occasion, from the ski slopes to high tea. 

 

And that is something to tip your hat to.