For some lamentable reason, the number of hats you see on the reg in 21st century Britain is sorely lacking. Why a jaunty head accessory has waned in popularity, is beyond me. A killer hat would almost certainly inject a bit of spice into each and every outfit: vive le chapeau!
While everyday headgear is still suffering a slump in comparison to the days of our 20th century ancestors, fashion fans will be pleased to hear that there are still heaps of occasions this season that call for a major hat moment.
READ: 6 statement designer headbands and how to wear them this season
MORE: Black-tie dress code for women explained: the dos and don'ts
Flaunting your accessory game either at the races or a wedding is a great way of allowing your personality to shine through. "Hats are the easiest way of making a statement and distilling your personal style, they’re your way of saying to the world who you are and what matters to you," says Awon Golding, Head Millinery Designer at royal-approved British heritage brand Lock & Co.
© Awon Golding MillineryAs an award-winning milliner at the world's oldest hat shop, what Awon doesn't know about perennially chic headgear, simply isn't worth knowing.
Hello! Fashion shares the five key hat trends to have on your radar for summer 2023:
Pastels
© Awon Golding Millinery"Pastels have been cropping up all over the fashion map and millinery is not immune to the craze for the lighter side of the colour spectrum," Awon says. "Pale lavender is a must this spring/summer - my atelier is being inundated with requests for this feminine and fun tone. Wear it boldly paired with burnt orange or an equally complementary colour, or simple in a head-to-toe tonal look."
Barbiecore Pink
© Awon Golding Millinery"With the cinematic release of Barbie impending, I can 100% guarantee that pink will be having its moment in the limelight. Barbie-fever means that we’ll be seeing this flattering colour cropping up in all forms of fashion, hats included. Wear it pale and pastel, or bold and bubble gum."
Oversized Headbands
© Awon Golding Millinery"The headband trend is alive and well, you can thank the "Kate effect" for this, since the Princess of Wales is an ardent headband wearer. This summer sees headbands in super-size, with the addition of contemporary adornments such as feathers."
Traditional Millinery
© Awon Golding Millinery"There’s been a return to a more classic shape of hat, think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. It's a timeless look that suits all ages and is appropriate for all special occasions. You can't make a fashion misstep with the classics."
The Pillbox
© Awon Golding Millinery"Popularised by Jackie O in the 60s, the pillbox has made a comeback and signals a return to sleeker, more understated special occasion dressing," Awon says. "A pillbox is great for framing the face and makes a chic statement with hair pulled back into a neat chignon bun."
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