How to Wear Hats – Choosing a Hat You can Feel Confident About

A hat can be a tricky element of style. When worn correctly they look absolutely fabulous, and a great hat can make a big impression. When worn incorrectly, however . . . well, let’s just say that many women have had a single bad hat experience and are frightened away forever.

This need not be the case. Like scarves, sarongs and belts, hats (including beach hats) can be useful, versatile and fun items in your wardrobe. They both keep the sun from damaging the skin of your face, shoulders and neck and also spice up your style with individuality. The trick to wearing a hat well is choosing one that complements the shape of your face and works with your outfit. Then you can step out in confidence.

The Right Hat for Your Face
Since hats are worn so closely to the face they draw the eye immediately, making choosing the right hat to flatter your face very important. One rule of thumb is that you should always choose a hat that is similar to the shape of your face. For example, wear a small hat if you have a small face. Wearing something too big will overwhelm you. If your face is long and narrow try a style such as a cloche, which has a round, bell-like crown and is worn low in the front. If you wear glasses, go for something that turns up in the front. You don’t want to further hide your face with a big floppy brim. A round face calls for a broad-brimmed hat to balance it, and if your face is wide a beret will complement it beautifully. A heart-shaped face will work with almost all hats.

If you’re not sure what shape your face is or what hat is best, try a panama. Panamas complement many face shapes.

What Color is Your Hat?
When contemplating color, choose one that flatters your skin tone rather than trying to pick the perfect hat to match your outfit. Remember, the hat is closer to your face than the outfit, so don’t pick something that will wash you out. Black is safe but can get boring. Darker skin tones look good with just about any color, but bold bright hues are especially beautiful. For paler skin try a softer tone, such a pastel, or choose a hat that matches your eyes. It will make your peepers pop and accentuate your skin, while looking individual and natural.

A Good Hat is a Versatile Hat
The right hat will work with many outfits. Choose a neutral color to play it safe and feel comfortable. But if you’d rather go with something bold pair the hat with a scarf, belt or other accessory that incorporates the same color. Matching the color of hats to the color of clothes, such as detailing in printed sarongs, helps the hat top the whole outfit off and tie the look together.

Beach hats are especially versatile. Big, straw hats are essential for sun and surf, but they’re also chic wear for shopping or eating lunch outside. Straw beach hats have great, wide brims that protect you from the sun, and many are so well-made, incorporating smooth, flowing lines and expert craftsmanship, that they make the perfect accent for virtually any summer outfit, including more elegant looks for fine, outdoor dining. Big, wide-brimmed beach hats look especially good when paired with sarongs.

Hats to Avoid
So what hats should you try to always steer clear of? Visors and ballcaps, while great for such activities as sailing, wind surfing and beach activities, should be kept for daytime use, as they turn into style killers in the evening. Also, don't wear hats that don’t actually fit you. If you have to cram it on or prop it up, leave it off. If you’re going to wear a “statement hat,” pair it with understated clothing to prevent turning your outfit into an eyesore.

These are just a few tips to get you started in the wonderful world of hats. Berets, panamas, pageboys and fedoras are such fun and useful elements of style it would be a shame to leave them out altogether when you know how to pick the right one to look good.

Looking to update your wardrobe, including a new beach hat? Check out the vast selection and unique designs at FairWindsSarongs.com.

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