During our endless fashion chats, May suggested that she finds hats a bit affected. Jet and Liesbeth dare to brave anything, and Josselin likes things to be a bit toned down.

I’ve got quite a hat head, and also a good collection ranging from flaps to dents. Though I’ve got to admit that most of them haven’t ever seen daylight or are still lying untouched on a shelf. Well, holidays! I’ll wear them indiscriminately then. Because wearing a hat on holidays is perfectly legal since it protects the face against harmful rays of sun. This is how it works, apparently: if something’s very present — in casu the hat — whilst it doesn’t serve any other purpose than to decorate, us girls (May and I in any case) have some difficulties with it. Ludicrous of course because twelve centimetre heels serve no direct purpose yet this is perfectly fine by us.

I decided to dive into foreign hat decorum. And I’m not talking about America where everyone decides to wear a hat regardless of the occasion. No, I’m talking about London or Paris where it’s an accepted fashion statement, and where it comes across as totally natural when women and girls wear hats. Besides, in England the Headwear Association has an online poll where hat-examples of the year are elected annually. Chapeau for Miss Moss who won this year — rightfully so — for her typically London street style. Her flap hat is legendary and serves as an example for every fashionista.

So we’d like to wear one too. Purpose or not, hats are hot.

Which model

Doesn’t really matter as long as it supports your style and fashion statement and looks like an extension of your look.

The baseball cap

Are usually paired with sweatshirts and sweatpants. It’s meant to express a sporty and/or hip hop vibe. You can’t really wear it with stilettos and clutches. Wear them with jeans and sneakers and you’re good to go. Never, I repeat, never wear it backwards in jest. Also not (sorry Ali) if you’re called Ali B.

The cowboy hat

A stray hat is a hit in the summer because it’s so light and practical. Try picking a model that’s least like the original American western model unless you’re called Dolly Parton or like line dancing.

The dented hat

Is a classic inspired by the male version. This model’s band is slightly less broad compared to the flap hat. It proved to be an incredibly popular hat for both men and women last year. It’s easy to combine with clothing so a real must-buy…

The flap hat or floppy hat

Is one of the most striking hats when it comes to the hatwear-spectrum, and, especially thanks to Kate Moss, a very hot hat in fashion. The model gained popularity in the 70s when it was worn with flaring jeans and plateau heels. When you wear it, wear it nonchalantly.

Do and Don’t

• Unless you’re a member of the royal house, don’t wear a hat in the same colour and material as the rest of your outfit. Very boring.
• A hat will always draw the attention. Therefore, don’t match it with too much striking clothing. You shouldn’t aim for the overdressed look.
• Always keep in mind that a hat with a wide band makes you look smaller.
• A greeting kiss can, just like an unexpected squall, turn out to be disastrous for the hat situation on your head. Nothing looks more ridiculous that a lopsided hat.
• Hold your hat with you hand to prevent it from slipping off (like Maxima does).

Style guide

Contrary to gentlemen, ladies are allowed to keep on their hats inside.

If you’re wearing a hat on an official occasion then keep in mind not to take a hat with too wide a band obstructing everyone else’s view.