Tip Your Hat

When it comes to the perfect hat for spring, I'm convinced a straw fedora is the answer to the seasonal topper dilemma. The classic shape of the fedora, reworked in a lighter, breezier material is perfect for the transition into spring. I'm envisioning these hats paired with Breton striped tops, cropped trousers, and white sneakers for a preppy look. They'd be equally cute with a flirty sundress, pair of sandals, and bangles to channel a boho chic vibe.

(DKNY, $48)

(J. Crew, $34)

(David & Young, $18)

Straw Hats

I'll be honest, when I think of straw hats, I immediately imagine a cowboy hat. Blame it on growing up in a state where people own Stetsons for reasons beyond costume parties...

I've posted before about my love of hats and wish that they would become more common in everyday wear. Plenty of functional hats abound this time of year as they make snowstorms and rough winds slightly more bearable. While chilly weather reminds us that spring is still quite a ways away, I'm already dreaming of warm weather ensembles including hats. I came across this image, and the pale colors immediately set me on a straw hat tangent:

Of course, this immediately made me think of straw boaters and their particular prominence in fashion. Confused? Coco Chanel began her fashion empire not with the LBD, but with straw boaters. Chanel disliked the gaudy, extravagant hats of the turn of the century and trimmed simple straw boaters with ribbon as an alternative. Her hats quickly gained a following (no wonder, who really wants to carry a large, elaborate hat around on their head all day when a chic boater would do?) and Chanel's fashion empire was on its way.

 

This spring, I think I'll pay a small tribute to the legend that was Chanel and sport a trimmed boater. Of course, wearing it in Paris would be even better...

 

Now if only it were sunny enough to warrant such toppers. Until then, hats off to you, Coco. 

Images via weheartit, The Gloss, & weheartit

I want a snow storm...

I'm a firm believer that holidays should be celebrated one at a time, hence you'll hear no talk of mistletoe and garlands from me until after Thanksgiving Day. It's far too early for Christmas wish lists, but I am hoping for a snow storm or two this November.

Why? As much as bundling up for the elements seems like a chore, it will always inspire a sense of adventure in me. There's something about donning several layers of your warmest wool sweaters, long underwear, and water-proof gloves (trust me, always water-proof, your fingers will thank you after a snowball fight) that is analogous to an explorer gearing up to trek uncharted territories. Even if in a white-out blizzard the discovery only culminates in finding the end of your driveway, there's a sense of accomplishment that clearly necessitates a post-excursion victory celebration with plenty of hot chocolate.

 
When I saw this hat on InStyle's list of Hottest Accessories Under $100, I was instantly smitten. It reminds me of a hat I borrowed last winter (and sadly returned to its owner...). First, it amazingly didn't mess up my hair the way many beanies do. Second, it was lined with fleece which made it incredibly warm and functional. While InStyle considered this a fall accessory, it's definitely an investment for this winter.

Mad Hatter

Walking to dinner tonight, I saw a man rocking a fedora in a non-quirky way. It made me realize how infrequently college students wear hats. Baseball caps and beanies aside, who wears hats anyway?
My friend's answer, "At sporting games and horse races."

My great aunt prides herself on well put together outfits. Every trip outside necessitates a hat, heels, and gloves (and sometimes pearls, earrings, a brooch... you get the point). While I don't see such complicated get ups ever reemerging among the collegiate crowd, sometimes I find myself longing for the fashions of former years.

In the meantime, I'll settle for basic summer toppers like this cute braided ribbon sun hat. I think yellow's a perfect color for summer; cheery and light-hearted!