Intro

After blowing thousands of dollars on Jordan sneakers and clothing I no longer wear; I developed a recent obsession with timeless style. Prior to the 1950s, men never left the house without a hat. No, we’re not talking fitted ball caps or snapbacks, either.

STOP. I know exactly what you’re thinking! When’s the last time you’ve caught me in a hat?! If you ask me, I’ll tell you I’m not in the barbershop every Friday to walk around with a head cover.

The honest answer is, most hats I try on in stores don’t fit my head! I used to wear a size 8 fitted!! I always told myself, I’ll jump on the hat train after I start balding or shave my head. The truth is, I needed stop being lazy and do a little research! Yes, the hat requires a little swagger. You want to look cool and avoid looking like a tool. My guide, is a step in the right direction!

The Fedora

History

The name “Fedora” originated from Princess Fédora Romanoff. Who was basically super woman in the 1882 play “Fédora,” written by Victorien Sardou. Yes, it began as a hat for chicks.

Types of Faces

We ALL love this hat however research shows it’s recommended for:

Short full face- This hat will give your face some height. Tilt it back from your face. Tilting it over your face will make it [your face] appear shorter.

Long thin face- This hat will shorten the appearance of your face. Tilt to the side with a slight back tilt.

Top heavy face- This hat will balance out your top and bottom. Tilt to the side, but not too far back, or you’ll show too much of your wide forehead!

Long nose- This hat will break up the line from the brim to the tip of your nose. Tilt it to the side!

Strong jaw- This hat will balance out your strong chin. Tilt it to the side, but keep it somewhat level.

*Most of this information came via: The Fedora Lounge

Which one?

The original was made of felt and had a two and a half inch brim (think Indiana Jones). Now, you can find this stylish accessory in straw with a much shorter brim (Fedora pictured above). Grey is a very neutral and popular color.

How to wear it?

Pop this cap on to spice up your jeans and T-shirt, or pair it with a suit to add some extra flair. Some will argue that there are more appropriate hats for casual and formal situations. Just remember this; Thin ribbons (such as the one pictured above) are for casual outfits, and thicker ribbons are designed for more formal settings.

Straw- Ideal for warm weather to keep your head cool.

Fir/Felt- Designed to withstand the elements and protect your head.

Hat Etiquette

Always Remove:

-While conversing with someone
-While eating meals (unless seated at the lunch counter at a diner)
-During national anthem
-Inside of buildings (unless in lobby)
-During outdoor weddings
-Inside places of worship
-At funerals and gravesites

Tip when:

-Expressing gratitude
-Greeting a male friend (if lady, remove by crown)
-Excusing yourself to a woman or when passing her in a tight space
-Saying goodbye

*This information via: Ask Andy about Clothes , Wiki How and The Art of Manliness Book

Final thought

Why not switch up your normal routine and ditch the snapback. Hats are not only stylish, but functional too. They can hide a bad hair day,(of course I never have those), cover a bald spot/patch or protect you from the weather. Nothing says style, class and sophistication quite like a Fedora. Look, we learned something together. Average Joe, you’ve been informed!

Until Next Monday- Charles Maxwell by: Douglas Morgan Jr