Once upon a time a lady would never leave the house without her hat. It was an essential wardrobe item that denoted good breeding, flawless manners and impeccable style.

After years of being relegated to the bottom of the accessory ladder, hats have once again been elevated to superstar status. This season, designers sent models down the runways sporting everything from oversize bucket hats and wool caps to feathered and floral headdresses and even sparkling tiaras. If you are tempted to try a hat, there has never been a better time as there are many great options for keeping your head stylishly covered this winter.

Chic Chapeau
A jaunty wool beret worn over the left eyebrow adds instant panache to any outfit. This chic little cap looks especially smart with a schoolgirl tunic and opaque tights or skinny jeans and a trench coat. Choose one in bright red or purple for an instant mood lift. If you seek fashion inspiration from the other side of the pond then instead try a tam in a preppy Scottish plaid.

Knit Wit
The knitted hat was literally huge on the fall runways, with some designers showing beanies that looked like inflated tea cozies. For the average woman who must negotiate small spaces like crowded elevators and narrow doorways, a knitted cap that fits close to the head will keep your ears toasty warm all winter long. Look for styles in a rib knit or cable stitch fashioned from soft wool or cashmere. If you are handy with knitting needles you can make your own!

Headline News
This season menswear was the inspiration for the sharp tailoring and masculine touches seen in women’s suits. Add some panache to your power dressing with a dapper fedora. This hat makes a great addition to any wardrobe as it nicely frames the face while offering excellent protection from the rain and cold. A fedora in a crisp glen plaid or houndstooth is a nice change from black and would perk up a dreary winter day.

Boy Crazy
If a fedora feels too formal then try a boyish newsboy cap with your waistcoat and wide-legged trousers. This ultra-hip hat has been on the fashion radar for a few seasons and can be found in every fabric from casual denim to rugged leather. The best caps this season are constructed from menswear-inspired herringbone or heather grey tweed.

Fur Sure
Fur has long been a cold weather fashion staple and this season is no exception. This winter fur hats can be found in styles to suit every taste and budget. You can go full-on “Dr. Zhivago” with a fluffy fur helmet, opt for subtle luxury with a fur-trimmed bucket hat or add a little softness to your hairstyle with a plush fur headband. If the real deal isn’t your thing there are plenty of options in available in faux fur as well.

Pony Up
With designers referencing equestrian looks this fall, the riding helmet has made its way into the fashion mainstream. This hat is very current, but difficult to pull off. Brave fashionistas will opt for a black velvet version to wear with a cropped jacket and bubble skirt. For the rest of us mere style mortals, the riding helmet is best left at the stables.

This season, consider a hat as your indispensable fashion accessory. It will offer you warmth and protection from the harsh winter elements. A good hat will be a quick fix for those bad hair days. But most importantly, wearing the right hat with confidence will make you look instantly chic.
 
Christine Hambleton is a part-time fashion design student at VCC and a full-time mom. chrishambleton@shaw.ca

Copyright North Shore Magazine Issue Dec 06 - Jan 07