There’s a reason why floppy hats have resurged in popularity over recent years. For many women, they are an essential item – and an affordable way – to add a touch of class and panache to a look. They are also something of an acquired taste–worn incorrectly, they can look a bit naff. This guide explains when and how floppy hats should be worn so that you never look anything less than a lady.

When to Wear Floppy Hats

Floppy hats are amusing accessories worn in many different contexts, from the beach to garden parties.

Beach Days

For a trip to the beach, a floppy hat is a fashionable complement to swimwear. Not only does it provide proper sun protection, but it also adds a beachy allure. Pair with a kaftan or sleek bikini too.

Casual Outings

A floppy hat brings a chic touch to a trip to the farmer’s market, brunch with a group of girlfriends, or a Sunday stroll in the park. Wear it with a sundress, jeans, a loose blouse, or even a simple T‑shirt and shorts. But keep everything else low-key and easygoing.

Garden Parties and Outdoor Events

Great for garden parties, outdoor weddings or any daytime events, floppy hats enhance sun protection with their wide brims and add a sense of class to your outfit. Make sure to wear the hat with a dress or skirt in the same color as your hat and to finish off with a pair of cool sunglasses. 

Travel

Floppy hats are a useful travel accessory that will keep you cool and looking good as you travel the globe. Wear one while touring a new city, trotting around some historical sites, or relaxing at the pool at your hotel. But pack it carefully to avoid damage.  

How to Wear Floppy Hats

To wear floppy hats for women with confidence and style, here are some tips for you. 

Choosing the Right Hat

The first rule of floppy hat etiquette is choosing the right one. Take your face shape, your personal style and the proposed occasion into careful account. A hat with a slightly rigid brim could be the more versatile option, potentially easier to style, while a more pliable brim offers a less rigorously ‘groomed’ bohemian vibe.

Coordinate with Your Outfit

The floppy hat has to match your clothes. Neutral colors such as black, beige, and white are the easiest to coordinate and can work with nearly every ensemble. A bolder color or pattern can work if you choose one that coordinates with your outfit.

Balance Proportions

A floppy hat is all the more dramatic, so consider balancing proportions when wearing one. If your hat has a large brim, then keep the rest of the look sharp, simple and unfussy. Over-scaled jewelry or anything too voluminous under your hat will look unbalanced.

Hair and Makeup

Your hair and make-up should follow suit to tie your look together. Loose waves, a low pony or a side-parted braid are all great options for hair. Opt for a natural, sun-kissed look that’s light on makeup, with a touch of bronzer and a nude lip. This will keep the focus on your hat and create one seamless, pulled-together look.

Effortless Grace: Nailing Floppy Hat Etiquette

If the occasion is right, the styling is on point, and the proportions balance, a floppy hat can be the chic finishing touch to any outfit. The key to floppy hat etiquette is to wear your floppy hat with the right hair, the right makeup and the right accessories. With some fashion rules to play by, you can seamlessly master the art of wearing a floppy hat.