The 26th Annual Forest Park Forever Hat Luncheon on June 9 is a good excuse to get a head-turning topper. But not everyone is ‘a hat person.’ There’s definitely a way to work around that, since hats these days come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, colors and personalities. We take a look at some basics in straw. but the final test is what looks good on you.
the fedora
The fedora is trendy and nostalgic but be sure it fits right and is angled down and low on the forehead, rather than positioned squarely on your head. It’s a hip and fashion-forward look, but looks best when the hair is worn down.
the wide brimmed
This highly popular style can be pulled off by just about anyone and has been a favorite for centuries. It’s versatile enough to wear at weddings, luncheons, outdoor events and funerals.
the special occassion
Woven hats range from casual and cute to couture. There’s no end to what you can choose for a special occasion when you want to look fabulous or show a little attitude. Just remember to angle the hat correctly–play around with it until it looks and feels right.
the bucket
Love/hate opinions abound on this topper. It’s worn covering a good part of the head in a downward slope. Who should wear these? The brave and experimental embrace this style. The bucket hat was popularized by Bob Denver of Gilligan’s Island and has evolved from the menswear category to high fashion.
the novelty
I can’t think of a better way to express yourself than with a conversational hat like this one. It’s fun, whimsical and perfect for that vacation on the beach or your staycation at the pool.
ellen’s pick of the month: the fascinator
I’m forever fascinated with the fascinator. They are chic, romantic, very stylish, and can add just the right finishing touch to an outfit. It’s best to pair with a dress or skirt. This one-of-a-kind, custom-designed, black seed-beaded headband fascinator, has layers and swirls of black see-through plaid horsehair, a center rose and a bow made of black sinamay (a woven fabric made from abaca tree stalks). It is made by local designer Dianne Isbell of HATS by DI-Anne.
Ellen Soule is a fashion and public relations consultant and the past regional director for Fashion Group International, St. Louis region.
