Best Winter Hats For Women Over 50. Nail Your Style.
Incorporating hats into your wardrobe can be an excellent way to add some flair without breaking the bank. As hats continue to trend, I’ll provide you with a rundown of my favorite styles and where to find them in the UK and US. From beanies to berets, cloche hats to fedoras, there’s a style to suit every taste.
When it comes to rocking a hat, confidence is key. We’re not living in an era where everyone wears a hat, so it takes a certain level of self-assurance to pull it off and feel good about yourself. That being said, I’ll share my top tips for selecting the perfect hat that makes you feel like the best version of yourself.
Decide if you want a casual or a stylish hat
Casual hats, being the most uncomplicated option, can be effortlessly worn and stored without requiring special care or a dedicated box. They can simply be carried in your pocket or bag until needed. In contrast, stylish hats tend to have a more defined structure, necessitating storage in a box during the summer months. Furthermore, they often require some pre-planning before leaving home, as styling them in front of a mirror is essential. This level of preparation means they can’t be quickly pulled on and off throughout the day like their casual counterparts.
Next, decide if you like a classic look or a more unique look
When it comes to classic hats, traditional colors like navy and black are often the way to go. These timeless choices tend to blend seamlessly with a coat or jacket, creating a polished and put-together look.
If you’re looking to make a statement, unique styles are where it’s at. Think vintage-inspired designs, artsy flair, or chic sophistication. Alternatively, opting for a hat in a bold, contrasting color can add an extra layer of visual interest to your overall ensemble.
How to wear a beanie
The classic ribbed beanie has become a staple accessory for people of all ages. What was once a trend exclusive to young men, has evolved to include older gentlemen and women of all ages who have discovered its comfort and versatility. A beanie is a simple, close-fitting knitted hat that can be worn with or without a cuff, and with or without a pom-pom. Its warm and cozy nature makes it perfect for winter wear.When choosing a beanie, opt for 100% wool or cashmere to avoid the buildup of static electricity that can cause hair to fly out in unexpected directions. My personal experience with a cashmere beanie gifted by my daughter has been nothing short of delightful – it brings back fond memories every time I put it on. However, I’ve learned that not everyone can pull off the charm of a pom-pom, especially when you’re older.To style your beanie, consider positioning the pom-pom towards the back or side-back for a more slouchy and effortless look. When it comes to the cuff, practice makes perfect. I prefer to wear mine just above my eyes, which accentuates their shape – much like darkening one’s eyebrows. However, this placement can be a bit itchy and flatten my fringe.In the mirror, experiment with different positions of the cuff to find what works best for your face and neck area. For instance, placing the cuff on the hairline can lengthen a round face, while placing it on the brow line can shorten a long face. If you’re showing off your neck, consider wearing the beanie lower on your forehead. Conversely, if you’re wearing a scarf, pushing the hat higher up may create a more harmonious look.
How to wear a slouchy beanie or other unstructured knitted hat
Brora’s cashmere slouchy beanie is a versatile winter accessory that offers a relaxed, effortless look. Its stretchy fabric allows for a comfortable fit, and the fine knit construction enables you to style it in various ways. I find the slouchy design easier to work with than traditional beanies, as it can be worn in multiple configurations. By adjusting the position of the hat, you can create different looks that suit your face shape and overall outfit. For example, pairing a roll neck sweater with jeans calls for an unstructured hat like this one, which adds a touch of casual flair. On the other hand, if you’re wearing a coat with a structured collar and lapels, a more classic-looking hat is required to strike a balance between style and sophistication.
How to wear a bucket hat
The Aqua bucket hat at Bloomingdale’s offers a unique and functional fashion statement. While still playful, its structured design sets it apart from a beanie, making it an excellent choice for country-inspired outfits. The brim’s all-encompassing shape keeps hair and face dry in the rain, making it ideal for long walks on a drizzly day.
I find that the bucket hat evokes a sense of rustic charm, pairing well with outerwear pieces like Barbour waxed jackets or coats. Tartan or tweed bucket hats are particularly appealing to me, as they add a touch of country flair to an otherwise casual look.
For a more dressed-up approach, consider a leather bucket hat, which is currently in vogue. Alternatively, you can tie the hat to your coat’s material or shade for a stylish city-inspired look with retro undertones. A slim raincoat with its collar turned up will create a chic pairing with the bucket hat.
How to wear a baker boy or newsboy cap
The Merino wool baker boy or newsboy cap on Amazon is a unique and vintage-inspired accessory that blends elements from both modern and traditional styles. Its design, which falls midway between a basketball cap and a flat cap, features a peak but an open crown with a raised or puffed shape. This style may be challenging to pull off for those over 50, but for those who like the look, it can add a touch of youthful flair to their outfit. The baker boy hat pairs well with pants and jeans, especially when worn with high roll neck sweaters that elongate the neck and balance out the rounder, larger silhouette created by the hat itself. To achieve a similar effect without the hat, you could knot a silk scarf around your neck to create the illusion of a tall collar. The key to styling this cap is finding a texture or pattern that complements your pants or jeans. A contrasting fabric or bright color can add a playful and casual touch, making it perfect for everyday wear. While height isn’t crucial to pulling off the baker boy look, being reasonably slim or wearing a fitted top helps create the desired contrast between a slender body and an oversized hat.
How to wear a classic beret for a French Chic look
The iconic beret, once synonymous with the French je ne sais quoi, is making a triumphant return to the fashion scene. Its versatility lies in its ability to be easily stashed away in a tote or purse for those spontaneous moments when you want to add a touch of sophistication to your look. Berets can be crafted from an array of materials, including wool, leather, and loose-knit fabrics, each lending a unique charm to the overall ensemble.When it comes to donning this timeless chapeau, the key lies in achieving a subtle, rakish air. A slightly askew angle and a flat, relaxed silhouette are essential for capturing that effortlessly stylish vibe reminiscent of classic French cinema or a leisurely stroll along the Seine. For those seeking a more understated approach, a simple yet effective technique involves positioning the beret snugly on the head, with one side subtly pulled down and the other standing slightly askew.To ensure your beret remains securely in place, particularly when sporting straight, sleek locks, a discreet pin or two can work wonders. And to truly embody the essence of French chic, don’t hesitate to invest in high-quality accessories such as silk scarves and elegant handbags to complement your outfit.
How to wear a beret for a boho artsy look
The Relaxed Cashmere Beret by Brora offers a versatile canvas for artistic expression. When worn pulled down to just above the eyes, often accentuated with bright colors, this hat effortlessly combines with big sweaters, patterned skirts or pants, and flat shoes to create a Boho Chic ensemble that’s both fun and charming. For individuals who embody this style personality, a beret or an assortment of color options can be a valuable addition to their wardrobe. Interestingly, understanding one’s style personality is crucial in selecting the right attire and wearing it confidently. To determine your style persona, take the Style Quiz, conveniently located at the top right corner of the sidebar on this page. This insightful quiz provides personalized recommendations for building your wardrobe while taking into account your lifestyle.
How to wear a cloche hat and look feminine
The Cloche hat, available at John Lewis, exudes vintage charm while keeping you warm and stylish. Pair it with a wool coat or a flowy dress for a chic ensemble. Opt for a cloche that complements the colors in your outfit, as the subtle decoration on the side provides just enough visual interest without overwhelming the overall look. As the hat hugs your head, consider styling your hair to emphasize its bell-shaped silhouette and frame your face beautifully. Alternatively, allow loose strands of hair to escape for a more relaxed, casual vibe. With its versatility, the Cloche hat is suitable for most face shapes, although it particularly flatters round faces.
How to wear a fedora and look stunning
If confidence and poise are your strengths, a stylish fedora by Aqua at Bloomingdale’s might be the perfect accessory for you. This large felt hat sits directly on the head, casting a deep shadow that adds mystery to any outfit, making it ideal for those with longer faces. On the other hand, individuals with shorter square-shaped faces should consider alternative options. When styling your fedora, pair it with a structured jacket or coat to create a chic and put-together look. The simplicity of the hat allows for creative liberties in terms of color choices, so feel free to experiment with bold hues or opt for a classic brown tone. To draw attention away from the neck, focus on the neckline of your top instead of adding a scarf. For those who embody masculinity, pairing a fedora with a suit can create a dashing and sophisticated look. However, it’s essential to remember that hats are cyclical in terms of fashion trends, so unless you plan to wear it for a special occasion, it may not be worth investing heavily. That being said, the cost per wear can be surprisingly low compared to the style value it adds to an outfit. At the time of writing (mid-February 2021), many hats featured in this article are available at reduced prices, making them an excellent value for those who appreciate timeless fashion.