50s style hats

Types of 50s style hats

The hats of the 1950s were as varied and colorful as the decade itself. From huge, extravagant hats to tiny, practical ones, there was a hat for every occasion and every woman. Some of the most popular types of 50s style hats include:

• Fascinator

  A fascinator is a small, decorative hat or headpiece usually worn attached to the hair with a comb or clips. It is commonly made of feathers, flowers, and lace, and it is popular in formal occasions and events in the UK. The 50s fascinator hats were small and light, made of veiling, flowers, and feathers. They were worn tilted on the head, secured with a comb or elastic. They were popular for weddings, races, and formal occasions.

• Bell Hat

  The bell hat is one of the most popular and most loved 50s hats. It has a rounded crown, and the brim is small and turned up. It is primarily made of felt or fabric and is associated with a casual, preppy look. It was worn by women and men and was popular with jeans and a T-shirt. The bell hat is a timeless design and is still made and available today.

• Capri Hat

  The capri hat is a small hat with a narrow brim and a rounded crown. It is made of straw or fabric and is associated with a Mediterranean, nautical look. The capri hat was popular with sundresses and was associated with a vacation, resort style. They are still fashionable today and are commonly worn in the summer.

• Pillbox Hat

  The pillbox hat is a small, cylindrical hat with no brim. It is mostly made of felt or fabric and is associated with a formal, elegant look. The pillbox hat was favored by women in the 50s and was made famous by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. It was worn straight on the head, and it was popular with suits and dresses. The pillbox hat is a classic design, and it is still worn for formal occasions and events.

• Beret

  The beret is a flat, round hat with a center top and no brim. It is mostly made of wool or felt fabric and is associated with a casual, artistic look. In the 50s, the beret was popular among women and men and was worn as part of a casual outfit. The beret is a timeless design and is still popular in all parts of the world.

Design of 50s style hats

The hats in the 1950s were diverse, and each type had a unique design. Here are some of the key design elements of the popular hats from that era:

• Architecture and Structure

  Most 50s style women’s hats were designed to sit on the head without obstructing the view or interfering with the hairdo. They were made in small, compact shapes that were easy to carry. Their construction involved light materials such as felt, straw, and fabric. Some of the hats had stiff constructions, while others were soft and flexible. The stiff hats retained their shape, while the soft ones were shaped by the wearer. Most of the hats had a lining to enhance comfort and absorb moisture.

• Material and Texture

  The materials used in making the hats were selected based on the season and occasion. Felt was the most common material used to make winter hats. It was warm and had a smooth texture. Straw was used to make summer hats. It was light and well aerated. Fabric hats were made of velvet, satin, or cotton and were versatile for different occasions. The textures of the materials ranged from smooth and shiny to rough and matte. This created a contrast and added depth to the design.

• Embellishments

  Many 50s style hats were embellished to enhance their aesthetic value. The common embellishments included ribbons, bows, flowers, feathers, and veils. Ribbons were used to create a hat band or bow. Flowers and feathers were used to bring natural elements to the design, while veils added a touch of mystery.

• Color and Pattern

  During the 1950s, the colors and patterns that were used to design the hats were vibrant and diverse. Some of the colors used were red, blue, green, yellow, and white. The patterns included polka dots, stripes, and floral prints. The colors and patterns were selected to complement the wearer’s outfit.

• Functionality

  The design of the hats prioritized functionality. For example, summer hats were designed to provide shade and protection from the sun. On the other hand, the winter hats provided warmth and insulation. The fabric hats were designed to be versatile and stylish.

Wearing/Matching suggestions of 50s style hats

Here are some tips on wearing and matching 50s-style hats with outfits:

• Wearing the Hat

  Wearing a 50s-style hat adds vintage flair. Place it on clean, dry hair. Adjust it for comfort and visibility. The brim should not block the eyes. The hat must feel secure but not tight. It should stay in place without constant adjustment. Choose a hat that matches the outfit and occasion. Consider the hat's color and style. It should complement the overall look. Whether for casual or formal, the hat enhances the attire and shows personal style. It draws attention and starts conversations. So, wear it with confidence and poise.

• Matching Hats to Outfits

  Matching a 50s-style hat to an outfit requires attention to color and style. First, consider the hat's color. Choose complementary tones. For example, pair a black hat with light-colored clothes. This creates balance. Next, think about the hat's shape. A wide-brimmed hat suits fitted clothes. It balances loose, casual tops. A cloche hat matches tailored outfits. Its shape fits well with structured clothes. Then, match the hat's style to the occasion. A beret works for casual days. It pairs with jeans and a top. A fascinator suits formal events. It matches dresses and suits well.

• Matching Hats to Makeup

  Matching a 50s-style hat to makeup needs harmony. Start with the eyes. Bold eyes need balance. Pair them with a neutral hat. Avoid overpowering the look. Choose soft tones for a dramatic effect. Then, focus on lips. Bright lips need a simple hat. It should not clash with the lip color. Pick hats in classic tones like black or white. They complement most lip colors. Next, consider the skin tone. Fair skin suits pastel hats. Darker skin matches bright hat colors. This creates contrast and highlights the face. Finally, the hat should enhance, not dominate the makeup. It should complement the overall look.

• General Tips

  To wear and match 50s-style hats, start with clean, styled hair. Choose a hat that complements the outfit's color and style. For casual looks, opt for a beret or bucket hat in a relaxed fabric like cotton or wool. Match it with jeans and a blouse for a laid-back vibe. For a vintage-inspired look, pair a cloche hat with a fitted dress and heels. Choose a hat in a coordinating color to your dress. For formal events, select a fascinator or pillbox hat. Match it with a tailored suit or elegant cocktail dress. Ensure the hat fits securely and feels comfortable. Adjust your hair as needed to accommodate the hat's shape. Embrace the hat's vintage charm and let it enhance your overall look.

Q&A

Q1: What are some characteristics of 50s hats?

A1: The key characteristics of hats from the 1950s include wide brims, structured forms, and elaborate decorations. They’re made from quality materials like felt, straw, or fabric, and they're popular in pastel and bright colors.

Q2: What are some typical materials used in making 50s style hats?

A2: Typical materials used in making 50s style hats include felt, straw, fabric (like cotton or silk), and various embellishments like ribbons, flowers, veils, and feathers. These materials contribute to the hat's structure, texture, and overall aesthetic appeal.

Q3: How does one care for a 50s style hat?

A3: Caring for a 50s style hat requires gentle handling and proper storage to maintain its shape and condition. One should store the hat in a cool, dry place, preferably on a hat rack or padded hanger to prevent crushing or bending. Regularly dust the hat off with a soft brush or cloth to remove any debris or dust buildup.

Q4: Are 50s style hats still popular today?

A4: Yes, 50s style hats are still popular today. They’re often used in vintage-themed events, fashion shows, and photo shoots, and they're inspired by modern fashion trends.

Q5: What are some challenges in sourcing authentic 50s style hats?

A5: Some challenges in sourcing authentic 50s style hats include limited availability of original vintage pieces, competition from other buyers and collectors, and the need for expertise in identifying genuine hats from reproductions or modern variations.