A great video and intro. I went from no hat to a baseball cap to eventually about 5 years ago a Panama hat in the summer (it gets hot here in Shanghai in the summer). I think it was either a trilby or short brimmed Fedora. I’m not sure where one ends and the other begins. But at first I was nervous wearing it. It seems quite silly now. It only takes a few wears to start to feel comfortable with a good hat, and it eventually becomes part of you and you don’t even think about not wearing it. I bought my first felt fedora last winter, my first non Panama fedora and I just got a brand new super lightweight Panama from Locke & Co. Both times I still felt a bit uncomfortable at first putting on a new style of hat that I hadn’t worn before but are now no more strange than me wearing a pair of shoes. My wife really didn’t like the felt fedora at first but now she loves it. In fact she ‘borrowed’ it a few times - and complained I bought it a size too big!. So if you are thinking about trying one of the hats Sonya mentioned then go for it but don’t reject it just because you are a little uneasy with it at first. give it at least 3 or 4 wears. You will get comfortable with it and soon regret that you waited so long.
Flat caps + straw fedoras for me. It was born out of necessity since I started to shave my hair. Baseball caps felt increasingly more juvenile. Initially, wearing any type of hat was a step outside of my comfort zone but I can actually pull off the Peaky Blinder type look. It was just a matter of finding the right shape. I love Panama hats too but in most everyday situations it feels a bit "too much" partly because the rest of the outfit must match. It works best when there's an air of nonchalance like on a summer holiday.
I like flat caps. To me they're like a stylish baseball cap; versatile, practical, convenient, flattering and don't look particularly affected (which is an easy thing to get with more formal hats, I think)
I began wearing hats about two years ago, starting with a Panama hat. Since then I’ve purchased several fedoras. It took a little while to begin wearing them regularly and getting used to it but today I think nothing of it and I’ve never had any negative reactions from anybody. I will start wearing it with a bit of a tilt from here on. Thanks for your video.
Good video. I started wearing Panama hats 35 years ago for sun protection. (Melanoma) I then began acquiring fedoras and other styles and today have a collection of 25-30 good quality hats that includes Stetson, Dobbs, Goorin Bros., Lock & Co., Akubra, Biltmore, Beaver Brand, Christy’s, Mayser, Resistol, and Borsalino.
I am ancient of days and started wearing a hat, full time, when I was 5. I was my grandfather's two legged dog and followed her everywhere. He said that a man without a hat was not yet dressed. Bought me my first straw hat at five.
Yes hat person now....started with summer trilby about 4 years ago and then started wearing a winter Trilby and now have Borsalino panama hat and a Fernández y Roche panama hat and a felt fedora for this coming winter from the Spanish brand too.....in my 50s so that helps and people just KNOW you have to do what you have to do to keep stylin......and yes people like it and comment positively and say hi as it's been said.....I hope I encourage others as we live in a hot climate down here in Gibraltar and across the border in Andalucía so panama hats are perfect and people wear them of course but mainly older people.....older then me
Thank you for the post!! Could you tell me how exactly the strings inside the fedora are to be used ? They are there clearly to adjust the fit but I must be doing something wrong as they don’t really seem to serve that purpose… thank you in advance 🌻
@@SARTORIALTALKS I wouldn’t have thought of it either, but once I started wearing hats I definitely noticed an immediate difference. I live in a city where people ordinarily do not speak. But when I’m wearing a nice hat passers-by walking in the parks and on the sidewalks tend to say hello.... perhaps hats do make people look more approachable!
I wear Stetsons (the "fedora like" style) and panamas hats and I also experience that. Almost every time I go out some people speak to me and pay me compliments (about my hat but also my style in general) and start chit-chatting with me with no reason. It definitely tells people that you're an approachable person.
I’m 21 years old here in the American South, and I wear many different styles of hats ranging in formality from newsboy caps all the way to top hats. I mainly wear fedoras (or pajamas in the summer) and homburgs while occasionally switching to a bowler or newsboy cap. I find that they just complete my outfits in a very elegant and sophisticated way. My favorite hat if I just had to choose one would be my top hat from Christy’s of London. I am a musician, and during performances I’ve actually worn white tie with the top hat. It is very distinguished and makes me feel ten feet tall. I truly enjoy wearing it when I can and enjoy wearing all of my hats. Not many men these days, especially young men in my age group, wear them, but that is also what I love so much about it. Hats will forever be a timeless wardrobe essential in my wardrobe.
Great teaching video, Sonya! You are an excellent educator, fun, light but sufficiently in-depth. And, you really look great with the hats! Thank you, Bart
I recently started wearing Stetson Fedoras. I get tons of compliments. I was honestly very self conscience at first wearing one. Now I have 4 different colors and variations. Have been hoping to one day see a video here on hats. Great video keep them coming!
Thank you for addressing this topic... hats are a major "coup de coeur" of mine. I only own one but I've wanted to add more to my wardrobe and find it so difficult to have adequate information or even find retailers that carry a variety of quality head wear these days.... it feels like another sector of clothing that has lost it's cache in recent decades for different reasons... at least in north america.
Well I have to agree with you and I can't explain why it's so difficult to get information other than a deficit of demand from the public. On the other hand, such obscurity of information is in a sense, a chance to work around the barriers and wear hats well in a unique, charming and comfortable way, if you feel inclined. I hope you persevere ! ~ Sonya
Can't go wrong with a Stetson and I really like the straighter brim and the dent/crease style of the "Open Road" model. Thanks a lot for commenting ! ~Sonya
“Open Road” is a beautiful hat and I love the 2.75 grosgrain brim. Either way open crown or shaped is a great way to use it. Sold many back in the day in New York when in college
Very informative video. I started using hats just this last year., I wish I had done it earlier. I like to wear them straight and tilted, I feel very comfortable both ways. Thank you for the video!
Great video, hats are one of my passions. A few years back I started a new tradition of looking up quality hat makers whenever I'm visiting a new city. It has made my collection to explode, in a positive way and also led to many great talks. Thanks for your fine work.
Great video Sonya! Being sensitive to sun I always wore a cap. A few years ago I hesitantly tried a panama hat. I never looked back! I always wear a hat going out. They're fedora's, some vintage and one, my favorite, bespoke. Fits like a glove! I am now considering my next purchase.
Hey Paul, Always great to hear from you. The turning point you mentioned is something to remember---give things a try and see what happens. Sounds like you're hooked--congrats and thanks for watching. Cheers, ~Sonya
brilliant insight.I inherited my grandfather's boater and homburg,as well as his 4 inch brim Fedora made in Vienna sometime in the 30's.I expanded the collection with a Biltmore trilby and Ecuadoran panama
"I'm wearing a hat," too funny!! Awesome video. Inspirational. I feel as I can't wear a hat, but thanks to this video (Sonya), I may venture out and give it a shot!!
Amazing how a hat can make one look staid, dashing, comical, respectable, etc. Wonderful show, but then my wife Linda and I would expect nothing less from the charming Sonya. Thanks from Dublin ( Dublin, Ohio ).
A hat can be very helpful with rain, specially if you wear glasses. It's much more practical than a big umbrella. Also it adds a stylish layer to the outfit!
Good evening Sonya..yes I am a hat wearer....all of my winter hats are awa y in the attic...Will be wearing my panamas during the month of May when it starts to warm up..... I have been wearing hats since THE early 70s..how did I get started?...I saw a picture of the great Walt Clyde Frazier at a airport and it stayed with me....he had on a wide brimmed panama..it looked fabulous....you wear hats and I must say..you look awesome..cheers to you and Hugo........
I’ve always loved hats. One struggle I have with hats are the etiquettes of wearing a hat and wether or not I should keep it on in doors. I am new to your channel, if you have addressed these topics in previous videos, please point me in their direction. Thank you!
Don't forget sun-safety. I've had to start wearing brimmed hats (have always worn a ball-cap) and have two Aussie Akubras I like, the felt Cattlemen and straw Balmoral.
Can you discuss different toe shapes/lasts and their effects on fine shoes? Round, square, chisel, and the like? I know it's rather specific, but I believe there is plenty to discuss on the matter! Love the content 🙏🏻
I live in Bali & own 3 Olney Straw Boater hats. I wear them everyday with seersucker/linen blazer/sports coat. I like Panama Hats as well but they’re harder to store & maintain imo. With straw boaters, I can do whatever I want to do as they’re very very stiff & strong. Sadly Olney Headwear is now closed bc of COVID 19 & now I don’t know where to get more boaters. Does anyone have recommendations? 😩
Sounds like a dream to live in Bali ! I'm sure you look dashing in your boater. I know it's important never to leave a Panama in a hot place like inside a car in summer, or it can become brittle---it's mainly about humidity for the Panama, from what I understand. Thanks for telling us about your experience, much appreciated! ~Sonya
Good evening, Sonya! Lovely video, as always. Thank you! I love headwear. I think it's a way to take ownership of your style. I personally wear flat caps very often and in the summer the Panama. Also, women in hats are the most beautiful thing in the world. My mom and my sisters like to wear very wide brimed fedoras. Sometimes they punch out the crown to make it round and it makes the brim wavy and it just forms the lovelies frame for their head and hair.
Yours is a hat family -- I've always admired people who make wearing hats look natural; there's a certain je ne sais quoi about it all. Also, two great headwear choices. Cheers, ~Sonya
Thank you, Sonya! This is a good intro to hats. I’ve worn western hats at different points in my life, but not with a suit. I’ve considered a fedora or trilby for winter, because hats help you stay warm. Right now, I’m in the market for a Panama hat, because my hair is getting thin on top. One hat that I thought you may address is a newsboy style hat, because it can be worn with suits. Thanks again!
I appreciate the confident guys here who fee comfortable talking about losing hair. I have a theory that generation Z may be influencing us to open up and just be more honest. Btw, you're the sixth person who asked about caps, so maybe we'll dedicate an episode. Thanks for commenting, ~Sonya
you didn't mention the Stetson OPEN ROAD worn by Lyndon Johnson and others in Texas lore--a very stylish hat--I am from Texas where you take off your hat when you are indoors-unless you are in a bar or saloon to have a drink.
I loved your tutorial on hats, Sonya! Aside from baseball hats, I am a novice - so this really helped. I'd love to hear more about what hats work best with various face shapes and sizes. I have tried on a few panama hats and have yet to be 100% excited by what I see in the mirror. Either it's the fact that a big part of my identity is my hair so I am not used to it or what I really think it is - is not choosing the perfect hat for my face. And perhaps the feeling would completely change if I were to try some hats on while wearing my favorite suit? Anyway - food for thought. I will kep exploring because I LOVE the look. Thanks!
I love wearing hats. The first one I picked up was my late grandpa's flat cap. I loved wearing it, and noticed it's much better at its job than say an umbrella or sunglasses (both of which I've often misplaced or lost). So usually now when people ask me why I wear a hat, I say "Hats are awesome. When it's raining a hat makes your head dry and when it's sunny it gives you shade." I now own two fedoras (one dark brown, one melange anthtracite gray) of different weights; I own several flat caps, a few I made by myself; two Russian ushankas for winter time; a straw hat and a stetson (the latter I find very useful when it's wet and I have stuff around the property to do as it's quite heavy duty and it has a big brim); I also just recently ordered a bowler hat and this summer I intend to buy a good quality panama hat so as to use it when the straw hat I have is too informal. As mentioned I love hats because when it's rain they keep my head dry and when it's sunny they give shade superior to that of sunglasses. But since I'm shorter than average, a hat also gives me a confidence boost since it draws the eye up and makes me seem taller than I am. Especially the fedoras and my dark brown ushanka. And yes, it's interesting that you should point out that wearing a can make you stand out or hide away. Sometimes at the same time. I've noticed that. But it's so fun when people notice and ask about it. An amazing conversation starter. :)
I loved the video! I am wondering though, could you also talk about Newsboys and Driving Caps? I know they are more dressed down hats, but I own a wool driving cap that I wear constantly in the winter. I would love to know what you think! Thanks
Thanks Sonya, so informative - I like hats a lot but never knew about this different names besides Bowler and Stetson - in Germany we call the Top Hat Cylinder (Zylinder). I had one from my grand-grandfather which had internal mechanics to make it flat like a plate. To enlarge it again you had to move it in a special way and beat against one side of the brim - this thing is called chapeau claque. Unfortunately I played too much with it as a kid and it broke ....
Thanks for all this info. I never used to wear a hat but now I am middle-aged and the hair is thinning a bit on the top. I finally have the confidence to wear more gentlemanly hats. Lots of good comments when wearing the right hat. Many can be worn very casually to stave off sun & weather elements. I find these very versatile and so I do not bother adding extra accessories (hat are enough statement on their own). Best to visit a specialized hat shop to get proper quality. A a super cheap hat makes a guy look cheap so stick to Quality. Take some risks to try various styles in store which will look the best according to your personal looks (for there are way too many variables to learn this via RUclips). Note, you can actually use a hat style to help balance out overall personal features and look best to empathize with your face. Important Note, people who look good in hats have simply tried on enough shapes & styles to figure out what really works for them.
Thanks, amazing information! I love seeing in old movie how in the past everyone wore hats, so much style! Unfortunately wearing a hat nowadays draws too much attention...
I understand your hesitance in regard to drawing attention. Lead ST Editor Greg Jacomet decided to drop in the old movie shots & I'm really glad he did! Thanks for the reply, ~Sonya
Wonderful! Hat-astic! I've been building up a collection of a few vintage fedoras (well, they are 2 inches on the brim so maybe trilbies?). I've become more confident wearing my hats over the past year or two. Thank you for this video. Tony
Thank you sonya for explaining it,i always wore a fedora and flat cap in cold weather or homburg/bowler in a formal office situation,while panama and boaters for warm/hot weather,i have an special top hat for the royal ascot,it was hardly worned by me,but i love by just looking at it
When I was a kid all my pals would come by and grab a hat. We'd go run amok. Cowboys, engineers, fishermen, and baseball players. Now it's a newsboy or tam. A homburg or fedora for dignified overcoat weather. A derby for pub days and cigars. How a about the humble beret? Shake off the snow and put it in your pocket. Be the poet, the painter, or perhaps a freedom fighter. Viva la mercenaire! Mad as a hatter for some time, love hats. Great show, thanks.
Hats are a gift to people with bald heads like me. And you can change them everyday with the mood you are into. Maybe you can cover flat caps too? Thanks for sharing
You know, I should have thought of mentioning how hats are a plus when you have less hair. It's a very good point. Also, you're the fourth person to mention caps, so maybe there's enough interest for an episode on the subject. I'm glad you commented, ~Sonya
You guys forgot to mention the Mexican-American community wears "tejanas" or cowboy hats to all formal occasions. Some of these hats run into the thousands of dollars.
Sally Kellerman wore a fedora hat in the movie Back to School and it was a great look IMO. She seemed to wear it effortlessly, at the same time exuded fun and class. Wearing a hat can at first be uncomfortable as they are quite rare these days they are not for everyone. Sonya you happen to look great in a hat and thanks for making this video.
Hey Phil and thank you. At first it can be strange and uncomfortable to wear a hat, but with repetition it can feel natural, as in the example you give. Thanks for replying, ~Sonya
I have never worn a hat for a sartorial purpose before, only for sun protection, but after watching this video, I think I’ll give it a try once the pandemic is over and I can travel again. I am especially interested in the Panama hat.
Ethan M. Wong has a great article "On the Subject of Fedoras". My favorite style of hat to wear is a style that is in-between a Fedora and a Western hat. They have a very thin ribbon and bound edge with a brim that can snap. Today I wore an Akubra "Crampdraft" in the Silverbelly color. They are based on the vintage Stetson "Open Road" proportions.
Absolutely adore the writing style of Ethan !! You are certainly versed in the hat arena & would like to see the cross between the Fedora/Western you mention (will become familiar with the Akubra Crampdraft, thank you). Any thoughts on the "stingy brim" ? Do you consider it to be a Fedora? Thanks so much for adding your thoughts here, ~Sonya
Fellow wearer of the Campdraft here. Fun fact: the Campdraft is based on the proportions of the Stetson Open Road because Akubra used to hold a licence from Stetson to produce hats for the Stetson brand in the Australian market. After Akubra stopped doing this, they continued producing the same hat under their own name as the Campdraft.
@@SARTORIALTALKS Thank you for the kind words Sonya and thank you all for the great content on this channel! I try to avoid using the F word, but I do consider the stingy brim a fedora with a very short brim.
I owned a vintage stingy brimmed fedora in the past, but I passed it onto a friend a few years ago. They tried it on and looked great wearing it - so I let them keep it. The shorter brim felt off-balance when worn by myself, but I think others can pull it off. I prefer a relaxed wider brim these days for my current style and proportions. For a bit of fedora/western crossover inspiration - I follow the instagram pages for brycelandsco, wellemahatco, and hornskovhats.
I like to cant my hat to the side, as opposed to turning it (like a dial) on my head. I prefer a straight on fit, but the slight cant to the right feels super comfortable on my head and doesn't give me a "I'm wearing a hat!" look. Thank you for this video. I want a brown derby hat really badly! lol
First I started wearing a newsboy cap (bought winter 2019), and since then, I've aquired a Panama hat and a Fedora in dark brown and they are lovely, and very practical too. If you're not sure about wearing them I suggest not spending too much on the first ones in case you don't feel confortable. For me, my next step is buiyng a good quality wool cap. The most important thing: try them on because not all hats/caps look the same on you, but once you get it right, it really elevates your outfit and you'll get lots of compliments :)
One year and a half into headwear, and your experience sounds convincing. Thanks for the time you put into your reply. I'm sure others will be encouraged to try a hat or two. ~Sonya
I live in Tucson, AZ. A good straw hat is your friend. Central and Southern Arizona tends to be hot, dry and bright; a hat is protection from the sun. My suggestion is when wearing a hat back off on other accessories. This means don't over accessorize!
@@SARTORIALTALKS I’m going to email you and Hugo .....I’m going to get a 2 piece bespoke suit made by Richard Anderson (last person to be trained by Colin Hammick in the original Huntsman Cut) Savile Row ....very excited
@@ianpuddick Dear Ian, we know Richard very well. You can reach us at hugo@parisiangentleman.fr On a side note, you should definitely read Richard's first book called "Bespoke", in which he tells the story of Mr Hammick. Very interesting book. All my best, Hugo
@@SARTORIALTALKS thanks Hugo, I watched a wonderful BBC Documentary about 10 years ago & fell in love with Savile Row, I loved Huntsman and learnt about its very sad demise, yes I have read both of Richard’s books. I’ve paid for a 2 piece bespoke, I’m just losing weight 🥴 I hope you are both well and I will be in touch. I’m a plumber (that for fun makes Gin Rum & Whisky in very small batches, it doesn’t make money, I supply Harrods Fortnum & Mason, Buckingham Palace, it all started when I got sued over a chimney at my office - m.ruclips.net/video/yqCEEC1wWWM/видео.html I asked Richard if I can make a film about my bespoke suit ....I can’t wait to chat to you as I want your advice please. Kindest regards Ian the plumber
Love fedoras, but I’ve been enthusiastically collecting newsboy caps in cotton and linen and they’ve been wonderful for here in Florida! Have a new Panama coming in though for the really hot days.
Thanks for the informative video. A great hat maker in the US is Optimo Hats in Chicago. I own one of their fedoras and one of the Montecristi Panama hats. Got the Chicago seasons covered.
I think I just found out what gets Sonya excited the way shoes do for Hugo! Your red hat reminds me of the one Prince wore in one of his famous performances playing While My Guitar Gently Weeps.
I’ve been wanting to use Panama hats, especially given how hot the climate is wheee I live. Used to regularly use flat caps but it tore and I haven’t found a replacement I liked enough
Hats are one of my all time favorite accessories, it really makes me feel that nonchalant/sprezzatura. The biggest advice I give to anyone who is wanting to wear hats, is... 1) figure out what feels comfortable when you wear it. You will only wear the hat if it’s something you’ll love. I have one particular light brown fedora I wear all the time in and out of suits. It always feels an easy choice to me to wear with not only my wardrobe but I definitely feeling it showing off my personality. 2) Don’t be afraid to buy different colored hats of the same style, especially if you found one you like. Sometimes you’ll find that one particular hat type works for you but you may want to switch out the color with something that compliments it a bit more. Like I have hats of the same type but in black, brown, and grey.
I appreciate the comment section here for the responses like you've given. It makes so much sense to repeat-buy the hat you love in different colors. Thanks for that, Sonya
Headwear can really make an outfit, and you're right that you develop a relationship with the thing. I started by making the transition from a baseball cap to a flat cap years ago, and that sartorial step helped me get more comfortable being a "hat guy." Eventually I picked up a panama for summers, and just recently acquired a gorgeous chocolate beaver felt fedora from Agnoulita Hats. Having a hat is great, and I definitely recommend folks give them a go. If I had to give advice on getting used to hats, Is recommend folks either to start simple with a cap and work their way around, or to think functionally and get a hat for a specific purpose or season. Also helps if the rest of your outfit is nice too.
You obviously speak this wisdom from experience, and this will help others who are trying to find their way around the hat dilemma. Thanks for taking the time ! ~Sonya
I'm wanting to see if I can ease myself, and then maybe my partner, into hat wearing. The harsh Australian sun makes it a good idea. My partner always wears a cap when he goes out but it's very casual and I'd like to see if I can get him into something a bit fancier for when he's suited up. He's also in the army and seeing him in his slouch hat always does things to me ;) Not for with a suit of course, but you can't go past a good Akubra for a truly comfortable casual hat that'll take anything you throw at it.
I've alwys worn a hat. I have a cheap baseball-type hat for every day etc. when I go out and about, The vintage 1950's Tribly comes out. I'm still looking for a Panama hat and a regular fedora. However, As my head size is extremely small. 6 5/5 or the like, It's extremely hard to find any hats that come close to fitting me.
Hi Kenneth, If you love hats that much, maybe you should go bespoke ? I do like the thought of a hat being a comfort item. Thanks for watching and happy hat hunting! ~Sonya
I would like to address the concept of fedoras and trilbies being different types of hat. Avoiding some much older historical complications (e.g. if you go really far back, the term fedora used much more broadly for any soft, felt hat - including homburgs), the term fedora (for most of its historical use) has applied to anything that people would recognise as a fedora or trilby (i.e. any soft hat with a snap brim) in American English. Conversely, the term trilby was used in British English for the same. The term trilby travelled to the US with British made hats that had relatively narrow brims (marketed as hats to wear to the races). The term fedora wasn't really heard in the UK until it was popularised by phenomena like Indiana Jones. It is from this history that we get the modern perception that fedoras and trilbies are different types of hat, when truly they are the same, with some people being more likely to apply one term or another based on brim width. Does the distinction or lack of distinction really matter? Perhaps not, but people will find that they are suited to hats with different proportions, and arbitrarily dividing soft, snap brim hats into two categories helps to limit that, as "fedoras" tend to be produced with not only wider brims, but also straighter crowns, whilst "trilbies" tend to be produced with narrower brims and more tapered crowns. But people really need more variety than that to find hats that suit their face and body - I, for example, favour wider, flatter brims (at least 7cm), but also more tapered crowns (as an enthusiast of open-crown hats and doing my own bashing, I can deal with the tapering issue myself). I would also argue that the pork pie hat is really just another variety of fedora/trilby, in that it is another soft hat with a snap brim, just specifically with a pork pie crown (which other hats can also have - e.g. a Homburg could have a pork pie crown).
Any recommendations for cleaning hats? My wife had given me a fedora years ago, and I ended up having to throw it away because I was unable to find anyone that could clean and reblock it.
You can brush and lint roll for general cleaning and use water mixed with vinegar for wiping down and I've heard sprinkling with starch loosens stains (but haven't tried it). Also, don't leave a wet hat in the sun to dry. Regarding re-blocking, I'm out of my element and can't answer. It's something I need to learn more about. Maybe someone here knows more. Thanks for the great question, and Cheers from Bourgogne, ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS To re-block at home you need to hold the hat over steam (kettle full of boiling water works nicely) until it softens, then re-shape the creases/brim with your fingers while it cools. This works fine for neatening up or making reasonable adjustments to a hats shape, but if you want it looking new or want to fully change the crease/pinch lay-out then you'll need to go to a professional hatter. They will fully steam the crown and re-block it back to a dome shape, then start the creases from new.
Thanks a lot for this nice introduction to wearing hats. It does not solve the question of which hat is for me ? I get the impression that is has something to do with the inage you wish to emanate, but the shape of your face does something as well. Would it be possible to make an episode around this question ?
Hi Andrew, My instinct is to try either the fedora, homburg, pork pie, or trilby in a monochromatic color (with the same color band) similar to the color of your dark tweed suit. Blending the hat with the suit should create a coherent, comfortable look when you're just starting out with hats versus caps. Cheers, ~Sonya
Hugo has the same problem. He's worn a smoking hat in London with success but nothing else except a beanie (but he hasn't made many efforts yet on the subject). Strangely smaller hats often look better on bigger heads. I haven't figured out why. In the end, you have to experiment and see what resonates. Cheers ! ~Sonya
I have been wearing a fedora from Stetson for a few years now, and I absolutely agree ! Do not simply put the hat on your head ! Bend it, play with its curves, wear it more on the front (just above the eyes) or on the back of your head, left or right side ? Each changes give a nex attitude to your silhouette !
i love people talking about hats. i have a homburg, pork pie, fedora, trilby and a rollable panama. they are such lovely additions. and you're right, play with it when you put it on. take a selfie. i didn't like it when they became fashionable. you could see people with hats on their heads, not wearing them.
This is a great day! Just as I was watching this video, I get a notification, lo and behold, Sonya Glyn has replied to a comment I left in a very old video! You guys are awesome, in being so approachable. Well I live in the Middle East and I do wear plenty of Panama hats(Ultrafino, Stetsons). They were are intuitively picked, now it is nice to know their history. I usually wear them dressed down with linen, printed shirts and polos, never had an occasion to do justice to a few Fedoras I own(other than when I get to travel). Please could you do a video on flat caps too and recommend a few for hot weather/evenings. Receding hairline, forever hot weather, all the more strong reasons to have hats and flat caps a staple and possibly wear them even to work..I just changed my DP to a pic with one of my favorite hat, honoring this post :) And yes, agree on the tilt and going incognito sometimes :) )Much love and best wishes.
What great energy in your reply, thanks ! And I think you have pushed me to the point to do an episode on caps---it seems the interest is there & this thread has been educational. Thanks for the well thought out reply. Cheers, ~Sonya
Thank you for this - would like to learn more about the Bavarian-Austrian style of hat, which looks great but unfortunately is now associated in the minds of many only with the drinking party called Oktoberfest.
I can’t agree. I simply love hats, of all kinds. I will never be a to own enough. The one thing is, the first hat you mention seems to be often referred to a Homburg. I wonder which is correct?
I never thought I had a "hat head" until I tried on a trilby at a store and it actually fit, which is when I learned that hats had sizes too. Wore it for a while but it was very difficult to wear it around here without it feeling like a costume so I dropped it. But a couple years ago I tried on a flat cap, and it just felt so natural that I ended up with 4 and wear them most of the time and I even got one to wear at home when it's cold. If anyone thinks they can't wear a hat, they just haven't found the right one yet.
Really down-to-earth review of a headgear experience. Now I'm convinced that speaking about caps would be worth it. Classic caps could make a solid comeback, since so many feel such gratification upon trying. Thanks for you reply, ~Sonya Glyn
I've always been a fan of the Trilby and fedora hats and I'm trying to find ways to add them in my wardrobe. Also it happens that I'm a classically trained guitarist with jazz influences.
Sometimes a smaller brimmed hat will show more of your facial features to balance out a specific prominent feature like large eyes---but it's really a trial-and-error process (because only you know how a specific hat makes you feel when you wear it). Cheers, ~Sonya
I have been wearing a Panama for almost 20 years!
A great video and intro. I went from no hat to a baseball cap to eventually about 5 years ago a Panama hat in the summer (it gets hot here in Shanghai in the summer). I think it was either a trilby or short brimmed Fedora. I’m not sure where one ends and the other begins. But at first I was nervous wearing it. It seems quite silly now. It only takes a few wears to start to feel comfortable with a good hat, and it eventually becomes part of you and you don’t even think about not wearing it. I bought my first felt fedora last winter, my first non Panama fedora and I just got a brand new super lightweight Panama from Locke & Co. Both times I still felt a bit uncomfortable at first putting on a new style of hat that I hadn’t worn before but are now no more strange than me wearing a pair of shoes. My wife really didn’t like the felt fedora at first but now she loves it. In fact she ‘borrowed’ it a few times - and complained I bought it a size too big!. So if you are thinking about trying one of the hats Sonya mentioned then go for it but don’t reject it just because you are a little uneasy with it at first. give it at least 3 or 4 wears. You will get comfortable with it and soon regret that you waited so long.
If I had your text before the episode, I would have read it aloud. This counseling is appreciated.
Thank you so much, ~Sonya Glyn
Excellent input! You’ve moved-up my Fedora start-wearing-date!
Well said! If you have the courage to go for it you will soon fall in love with hats ! I LOVE hats and never knew I did till I tried it!
Flat caps + straw fedoras for me. It was born out of necessity since I started to shave my hair. Baseball caps felt increasingly more juvenile. Initially, wearing any type of hat was a step outside of my comfort zone but I can actually pull off the Peaky Blinder type look. It was just a matter of finding the right shape. I love Panama hats too but in most everyday situations it feels a bit "too much" partly because the rest of the outfit must match. It works best when there's an air of nonchalance like on a summer holiday.
I like flat caps. To me they're like a stylish baseball cap; versatile, practical, convenient, flattering and don't look particularly affected (which is an easy thing to get with more formal hats, I think)
We've been asked to do an episode dedicated to caps, too, so it's nice to gauge the interest. Thanks for commenting. ~Sonya
I agree, flat caps are a fenomenal way to start with headwear.
They make you look like an Irish peasant
Why do I have the feeling I'm going to be watching, and watching, and watching, and watching this episode until I'm on my 90's?
What a compliment. A big thanks !
Cheers from Bourgogne, ~Sonya
Wonderful and educative as always. Cheers Sonya!
You really do rock the Spanish hat looks great
Have several EPSOM FUR FELT RACING TRILBY HAT Christy's in various shades and a hard brim Homburg. All good usually match overcoat that is being worn.
Thank you, Sonya Glyn, as always for communicating/sharing passion ...
I really appreciate the encouragement, Marc. Thank you, ~Sonya
I began wearing hats about two years ago, starting with a Panama hat. Since then I’ve purchased several fedoras. It took a little while to begin wearing them regularly and getting used to it but today I think nothing of it and I’ve never had any negative reactions from anybody. I will start wearing it with a bit of a tilt from here on. Thanks for your video.
Good video. I started wearing Panama hats 35 years ago for sun protection. (Melanoma) I then began acquiring fedoras and other styles and today have a collection of 25-30 good quality hats that includes Stetson, Dobbs, Goorin Bros., Lock & Co., Akubra, Biltmore, Beaver Brand, Christy’s, Mayser, Resistol, and Borsalino.
I am ancient of days and started wearing a hat, full time, when I was 5. I was my grandfather's two legged dog and followed her everywhere. He said that a man without a hat was not yet dressed. Bought me my first straw hat at five.
Yes hat person now....started with summer trilby about 4 years ago and then started wearing a winter Trilby and now have Borsalino panama hat and a Fernández y Roche panama hat and a felt fedora for this coming winter from the Spanish brand too.....in my 50s so that helps and people just KNOW you have to do what you have to do to keep stylin......and yes people like it and comment positively and say hi as it's been said.....I hope I encourage others as we live in a hot climate down here in Gibraltar and across the border in Andalucía so panama hats are perfect and people wear them of course but mainly older people.....older then me
Thank you for the post!!
Could you tell me how exactly the strings inside the fedora are to be used ? They are there clearly to adjust the fit but I must be doing something wrong as they don’t really seem to serve that purpose… thank you in advance 🌻
I like wearing fedora and panama hats, and for some reason people say hello to me when I’m wearing a hat!
That is a wild observation. I've never thought of hats making someone more approachable. Thanks ! ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS I wouldn’t have thought of it either, but once I started wearing hats I definitely noticed an immediate difference. I live in a city where people ordinarily do not speak. But when I’m wearing a nice hat passers-by walking in the parks and on the sidewalks tend to say hello.... perhaps hats do make people look more approachable!
I've experienced this as well; maybe folks just find it refreshing.
I wear Stetsons (the "fedora like" style) and panamas hats and I also experience that. Almost every time I go out some people speak to me and pay me compliments (about my hat but also my style in general) and start chit-chatting with me with no reason. It definitely tells people that you're an approachable person.
I started wearing hats while growing my hair out, now I’ll never go back , an outfit is truly elevated to new heights with the addition of a hat
I’m 21 years old here in the American South, and I wear many different styles of hats ranging in formality from newsboy caps all the way to top hats. I mainly wear fedoras (or pajamas in the summer) and homburgs while occasionally switching to a bowler or newsboy cap. I find that they just complete my outfits in a very elegant and sophisticated way. My favorite hat if I just had to choose one would be my top hat from Christy’s of London. I am a musician, and during performances I’ve actually worn white tie with the top hat. It is very distinguished and makes me feel ten feet tall. I truly enjoy wearing it when I can and enjoy wearing all of my hats. Not many men these days, especially young men in my age group, wear them, but that is also what I love so much about it. Hats will forever be a timeless wardrobe essential in my wardrobe.
Hats! Such a wonderful subject. I have always loved hats. Thank You.
Great teaching video, Sonya! You are an excellent educator, fun, light but sufficiently in-depth. And, you really look great with the hats! Thank you, Bart
An all-round thank you and very happy you enjoyed, Bart ! ~Sonya
I recently started wearing Stetson Fedoras. I get tons of compliments. I was honestly very self conscience at first wearing one. Now I have 4 different colors and variations. Have been hoping to one day see a video here on hats. Great video keep them coming!
Fedora all the way. Panama (Cuenca) for hot summer. Planning to graduate into Borsalino someday, when I get old.
A secure bet for sure! ~Sonya
Seconded on the Fedora and the Panama 👌🏾
Borsa for the win!
Thank you for the video. I have my first hat and it's a Panama, love it and looking forward to my next hat. Cheers David
Thank you for addressing this topic... hats are a major "coup de coeur" of mine. I only own one but I've wanted to add more to my wardrobe and find it so difficult to have adequate information or even find retailers that carry a variety of quality head wear these days.... it feels like another sector of clothing that has lost it's cache in recent decades for different reasons... at least in north america.
Well I have to agree with you and I can't explain why it's so difficult to get information other than a deficit of demand from the public. On the other hand, such obscurity of information is in a sense, a chance to work around the barriers and wear hats well in a unique, charming and comfortable way, if you feel inclined. I hope you persevere ! ~ Sonya
I am 53 and have weared hats in 15 years now. And I love it.
I have a few Austrian style homburg's and a beautiful black fedora with a somehwhat larger brim (3.5 inch) with a 3 inch pleated black silk band
The fedora sounds lovely and of course the homburg is an intriguing hat. Cheers ! Sonya
Stetson Open Road for me. I really enjoyed this episode on hats, very informative...plus Mrs Jacomet is the host...enough said. :-)
Can't go wrong with a Stetson and I really like the straighter brim and the dent/crease style of the "Open Road" model. Thanks a lot for commenting ! ~Sonya
“Open Road” is a beautiful hat and I love the 2.75 grosgrain brim. Either way open crown or shaped is a great way to use it. Sold many back in the day in New York when in college
Very informative video. I started using hats just this last year., I wish I had done it earlier. I like to wear them straight and tilted, I feel very comfortable both ways. Thank you for the video!
Glad you took the time to write about your experience and thoughts on hats. Thank you ! ~Sonya
Great video, hats are one of my passions. A few years back I started a new tradition of looking up quality hat makers whenever I'm visiting a new city. It has made my collection to explode, in a positive way and also led to many great talks. Thanks for your fine work.
I adore this idea that you made a reality. I can only imagine when you have guests, how entertaining it must be to share your hat collection ! ~Sonya
I love wearing my Stetson. And it is the hat I feel the most comfortable with.
Always had a place in my heart for a good Stetson. Cheers & thanks for weighing in here. ~Sonya
Great video Sonya! Being sensitive to sun I always wore a cap. A few years ago I hesitantly tried a panama hat. I never looked back! I always wear a hat going out. They're fedora's, some vintage and one, my favorite, bespoke. Fits like a glove! I am now considering my next purchase.
Hey Paul, Always great to hear from you. The turning point you mentioned is something to remember---give things a try and see what happens. Sounds like you're hooked--congrats and thanks for watching. Cheers, ~Sonya
brilliant insight.I inherited my grandfather's boater and homburg,as well as his 4 inch brim Fedora made in Vienna sometime in the 30's.I expanded the collection with a Biltmore trilby and Ecuadoran panama
Excellent as usual, always happy to watch you and Hugo, totally elegant ,Love to you from Cairo.
Hi Sartorial Friend & thank you ! ~Sonya
"I'm wearing a hat," too funny!! Awesome video. Inspirational. I feel as I can't wear a hat, but thanks to this video (Sonya), I may venture out and give it a shot!!
Amazing how a hat can make one look staid, dashing, comical, respectable, etc.
Wonderful show, but then my wife Linda and I would expect nothing less from the charming Sonya.
Thanks from Dublin ( Dublin, Ohio ).
Thank you and your wife for your charming reply. It's true, few things are such a conundrum like the hat ! ~Sonya
I have a new Panama hat. I am a little nervous about wearing it, but you have given me more courage. I like the idea to wear the hat slanted.
Stetson also makes some beautiful dress hats in addition to their “cowboy” hats.
Great point--I have a Stetson Panama style hat & really like it.
Thanks, ~Sonya
I have an excellent felt fedora from Stetson. Very comfortable and well made.
A hat can be very helpful with rain, specially if you wear glasses. It's much more practical than a big umbrella. Also it adds a stylish layer to the outfit!
Good evening Sonya..yes I am a hat wearer....all of my winter hats are awa y in the attic...Will be wearing my panamas during the month of May when it starts to warm up..... I have been wearing hats since THE early 70s..how did I get started?...I saw a picture of the great Walt Clyde Frazier at a airport and it stayed with me....he had on a wide brimmed panama..it looked fabulous....you wear hats and I must say..you look awesome..cheers to you and Hugo........
Wow, incredible how one person can have such a lifelong influence. Thanks for encouraging---and also for sharing your wonderful story. ~Sonya Glyn
I’ve always loved hats. One struggle I have with hats are the etiquettes of wearing a hat and wether or not I should keep it on in doors.
I am new to your channel, if you have addressed these topics in previous videos, please point me in their direction.
Thank you!
Don't forget sun-safety. I've had to start wearing brimmed hats (have always worn a ball-cap) and have two Aussie Akubras I like, the felt Cattlemen and straw Balmoral.
Love the look of that Cordobes! Like what Jonny Ringo wore in theTombstone movie
Can you discuss different toe shapes/lasts and their effects on fine shoes? Round, square, chisel, and the like? I know it's rather specific, but I believe there is plenty to discuss on the matter! Love the content 🙏🏻
I do like the idea of focusing on the toe shape of shoes, one of the most defining factors of shoe design. Thanks for the input, ~Sonya
LOVE hats!!! You made me want to try so many of the mentioned types! And thank you for the feature of me and my fav trilby hat😍
I live in Bali & own 3 Olney Straw Boater hats. I wear them everyday with seersucker/linen blazer/sports coat. I like Panama Hats as well but they’re harder to store & maintain imo. With straw boaters, I can do whatever I want to do as they’re very very stiff & strong. Sadly Olney Headwear is now closed bc of COVID 19 & now I don’t know where to get more boaters. Does anyone have recommendations? 😩
Sounds like a dream to live in Bali ! I'm sure you look dashing in your boater. I know it's important never to leave a Panama in a hot place like inside a car in summer, or it can become brittle---it's mainly about humidity for the Panama, from what I understand. Thanks for telling us about your experience, much appreciated! ~Sonya
Thank you! I really enjoyed this! I recommend Akubra hats, especially the Fed IV and the Campdraft.
Hey Guy,
We always appreciate firsthand recommendations.
Thanks a lot and cheers ! ~Sonya
The Campdraft gets plenty of love from me.
@@zoukatron try the Fed IV too! Good selection of colors!
Good evening, Sonya! Lovely video, as always. Thank you! I love headwear. I think it's a way to take ownership of your style. I personally wear flat caps very often and in the summer the Panama.
Also, women in hats are the most beautiful thing in the world. My mom and my sisters like to wear very wide brimed fedoras. Sometimes they punch out the crown to make it round and it makes the brim wavy and it just forms the lovelies frame for their head and hair.
Yours is a hat family -- I've always admired people who make wearing hats look natural; there's a certain je ne sais quoi about it all.
Also, two great headwear choices.
Cheers, ~Sonya
Thank you, Sonya! This is a good intro to hats. I’ve worn western hats at different points in my life, but not with a suit. I’ve considered a fedora or trilby for winter, because hats help you stay warm. Right now, I’m in the market for a Panama hat, because my hair is getting thin on top. One hat that I thought you may address is a newsboy style hat, because it can be worn with suits. Thanks again!
I appreciate the confident guys here who fee comfortable talking about losing hair. I have a theory that generation Z may be influencing us to open up and just be more honest. Btw, you're the sixth person who asked about caps, so maybe we'll dedicate an episode. Thanks for commenting, ~Sonya
My sartorial journey actually started with hats. Since then I'm still very interested in hats and am currently starting a small collection of styles
Fantastic Joseph, it's great to read this reply from a modern day gentleman. ~Sonya
you didn't mention the Stetson OPEN ROAD worn by Lyndon Johnson and others in Texas lore--a very stylish hat--I am from Texas where you take off your hat when you are indoors-unless you are in a bar or saloon to have a drink.
Fabulous, Stephen. Thanks a lot for this one. ~Sonya
I loved your tutorial on hats, Sonya! Aside from baseball hats, I am a novice - so this really helped. I'd love to hear more about what hats work best with various face shapes and sizes. I have tried on a few panama hats and have yet to be 100% excited by what I see in the mirror. Either it's the fact that a big part of my identity is my hair so I am not used to it or what I really think it is - is not choosing the perfect hat for my face. And perhaps the feeling would completely change if I were to try some hats on while wearing my favorite suit? Anyway - food for thought. I will kep exploring because I LOVE the look. Thanks!
Thank you. It's been very informative. And yeah I think that hats are really cool, and tilting takes them to another level.
Glad you watched! ~S
I love wearing hats. The first one I picked up was my late grandpa's flat cap. I loved wearing it, and noticed it's much better at its job than say an umbrella or sunglasses (both of which I've often misplaced or lost). So usually now when people ask me why I wear a hat, I say "Hats are awesome. When it's raining a hat makes your head dry and when it's sunny it gives you shade." I now own two fedoras (one dark brown, one melange anthtracite gray) of different weights; I own several flat caps, a few I made by myself; two Russian ushankas for winter time; a straw hat and a stetson (the latter I find very useful when it's wet and I have stuff around the property to do as it's quite heavy duty and it has a big brim); I also just recently ordered a bowler hat and this summer I intend to buy a good quality panama hat so as to use it when the straw hat I have is too informal.
As mentioned I love hats because when it's rain they keep my head dry and when it's sunny they give shade superior to that of sunglasses. But since I'm shorter than average, a hat also gives me a confidence boost since it draws the eye up and makes me seem taller than I am. Especially the fedoras and my dark brown ushanka. And yes, it's interesting that you should point out that wearing a can make you stand out or hide away. Sometimes at the same time. I've noticed that. But it's so fun when people notice and ask about it. An amazing conversation starter. :)
I loved the video! I am wondering though, could you also talk about Newsboys and Driving Caps? I know they are more dressed down hats, but I own a wool driving cap that I wear constantly in the winter.
I would love to know what you think!
Thanks
I always wear a hat when I leave the house. I feel naked without one. 🤠
Your ease shows in your thumbnail! Well done, ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS Thank you
Thanks Sonya, so informative - I like hats a lot but never knew about this different names besides Bowler and Stetson - in Germany we call the Top Hat Cylinder (Zylinder). I had one from my grand-grandfather which had internal mechanics to make it flat like a plate. To enlarge it again you had to move it in a special way and beat against one side of the brim - this thing is called chapeau claque. Unfortunately I played too much with it as a kid and it broke ....
That's really sad. Vintage top hats are extremely valuable and also difficult to find
Thanks for all this info. I never used to wear a hat but now I am middle-aged and the hair is thinning a bit on the top. I finally have the confidence to wear more gentlemanly hats. Lots of good comments when wearing the right hat. Many can be worn very casually to stave off sun & weather elements. I find these very versatile and so I do not bother adding extra accessories (hat are enough statement on their own). Best to visit a specialized hat shop to get proper quality. A a super cheap hat makes a guy look cheap so stick to Quality. Take some risks to try various styles in store which will look the best according to your personal looks (for there are way too many variables to learn this via RUclips). Note, you can actually use a hat style to help balance out overall personal features and look best to empathize with your face. Important Note, people who look good in hats have simply tried on enough shapes & styles to figure out what really works for them.
Thanks, amazing information!
I love seeing in old movie how in the past everyone wore hats, so much style! Unfortunately wearing a hat nowadays draws too much attention...
I understand your hesitance in regard to drawing attention. Lead ST Editor Greg Jacomet decided to drop in the old movie shots & I'm really glad he did! Thanks for the reply, ~Sonya
Very good, very informative.
Wonderful! Hat-astic! I've been building up a collection of a few vintage fedoras (well, they are 2 inches on the brim so maybe trilbies?). I've become more confident wearing my hats over the past year or two. Thank you for this video.
Tony
Positive news, Tony -- glad for your reply! ~Sonya
Thank you sonya for explaining it,i always wore a fedora and flat cap in cold weather or homburg/bowler in a formal office situation,while panama and boaters for warm/hot weather,i have an special top hat for the royal ascot,it was hardly worned by me,but i love by just looking at it
You are one of the few authentic hat people out there. Great to know and so glad you lent your experience. Cheers, ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS thank you sonya cheers🥂
When I was a kid all my pals would come by and grab a hat. We'd go run amok. Cowboys, engineers, fishermen, and baseball players.
Now it's a newsboy or tam. A homburg or fedora for dignified overcoat weather. A derby for pub days and cigars.
How a about the humble beret? Shake off the snow and put it in your pocket. Be the poet, the painter, or perhaps a freedom fighter. Viva la mercenaire!
Mad as a hatter for some time, love hats.
Great show, thanks.
Fascinating video, thanks 👍🏻
Thanks so much, Mark. ~Sonya
Hats are a gift to people with bald heads like me. And you can change them everyday with the mood you are into.
Maybe you can cover flat caps too?
Thanks for sharing
You know, I should have thought of mentioning how hats are a plus when you have less hair. It's a very good point. Also, you're the fourth person to mention caps, so maybe there's enough interest for an episode on the subject. I'm glad you commented, ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS I really appreciate the way you inspire people. Thank you very much
You guys forgot to mention the Mexican-American community wears "tejanas" or cowboy hats to all formal occasions. Some of these hats run into the thousands of dollars.
Sally Kellerman wore a fedora hat in the movie Back to School and it was a great look IMO. She seemed to wear it effortlessly, at the same time exuded fun and class. Wearing a hat can at first be uncomfortable as they are quite rare these days they are not for everyone. Sonya you happen to look great in a hat and thanks for making this video.
Hey Phil and thank you. At first it can be strange and uncomfortable to wear a hat, but with repetition it can feel natural, as in the example you give.
Thanks for replying, ~Sonya
I have never worn a hat for a sartorial purpose before, only for sun protection, but after watching this video, I think I’ll give it a try once the pandemic is over and I can travel again. I am especially interested in the Panama hat.
The Panama is stylish and functional so it will be a great start. Thanks for the reply,
~Sonya
Thank you for the wonderful video.
My collection includes flat/newsboy caps (wool-winter, linen summer) and Panama hats. ~ Cheers!
So fun to see the hat-people emerge. Thanks so much, ~Sonya
Ethan M. Wong has a great article "On the Subject of Fedoras".
My favorite style of hat to wear is a style that is in-between a Fedora and a Western hat.
They have a very thin ribbon and bound edge with a brim that can snap.
Today I wore an Akubra "Crampdraft" in the Silverbelly color. They are based on the vintage Stetson "Open Road" proportions.
Absolutely adore the writing style of Ethan !!
You are certainly versed in the hat arena & would like to see the cross between the Fedora/Western you mention (will become familiar with the Akubra Crampdraft, thank you).
Any thoughts on the "stingy brim" ? Do you consider it to be a Fedora?
Thanks so much for adding your thoughts here, ~Sonya
Fellow wearer of the Campdraft here. Fun fact: the Campdraft is based on the proportions of the Stetson Open Road because Akubra used to hold a licence from Stetson to produce hats for the Stetson brand in the Australian market. After Akubra stopped doing this, they continued producing the same hat under their own name as the Campdraft.
@@SARTORIALTALKS
Thank you for the kind words Sonya and thank you all for the great content on this channel!
I try to avoid using the F word, but I do consider the stingy brim a fedora with a very short brim.
I owned a vintage stingy brimmed fedora in the past, but I passed it onto a friend a few years ago.
They tried it on and looked great wearing it - so I let them keep it. The shorter brim felt off-balance when worn by myself, but I think others can pull it off. I prefer a relaxed wider brim these days for my current style and proportions.
For a bit of fedora/western crossover inspiration - I follow the instagram pages for brycelandsco, wellemahatco, and hornskovhats.
For me panama hat is necessary in the summer. My point of view is purely utilitarian: it protects my head from the sun and heat.
I like to cant my hat to the side, as opposed to turning it (like a dial) on my head. I prefer a straight on fit, but the slight cant to the right feels super comfortable on my head and doesn't give me a "I'm wearing a hat!" look. Thank you for this video. I want a brown derby hat really badly! lol
First I started wearing a newsboy cap (bought winter 2019), and since then, I've aquired a Panama hat and a Fedora in dark brown and they are lovely, and very practical too. If you're not sure about wearing them I suggest not spending too much on the first ones in case you don't feel confortable. For me, my next step is buiyng a good quality wool cap. The most important thing: try them on because not all hats/caps look the same on you, but once you get it right, it really elevates your outfit and you'll get lots of compliments :)
One year and a half into headwear, and your experience sounds convincing. Thanks for the time you put into your reply. I'm sure others will be encouraged to try a hat or two. ~Sonya
I live in Tucson, AZ. A good straw hat is your friend. Central and Southern Arizona tends to be hot, dry and bright; a hat is protection from the sun. My suggestion is when wearing a hat back off on other accessories. This means don't over accessorize!
Hello Tucson ! Been there and adore it--and the straw hat in Tucson is a coherent choice for sure. ~Sonya
Nice video Sonya. I do want to get into hats. I’m leaning towards a drivers cap and or a version of a Karakul.
From the comments here, it seems the cap is and excellent choice for entering the world of headwear. Thanks for commenting, ~Sonya
Lovely fun content ....always enjoy your videos 👍
A big thanks, Ian ! ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS I’m going to email you and Hugo .....I’m going to get a 2 piece bespoke suit made by Richard Anderson (last person to be trained by Colin Hammick in the original Huntsman Cut) Savile Row ....very excited
@@ianpuddick Dear Ian, we know Richard very well. You can reach us at hugo@parisiangentleman.fr
On a side note, you should definitely read Richard's first book called "Bespoke", in which he tells the story of Mr Hammick. Very interesting book. All my best, Hugo
@@SARTORIALTALKS thanks Hugo, I watched a wonderful BBC Documentary about 10 years ago & fell in love with Savile Row, I loved Huntsman and learnt about its very sad demise, yes I have read both of Richard’s books. I’ve paid for a 2 piece bespoke, I’m just losing weight 🥴
I hope you are both well and I will be in touch. I’m a plumber (that for fun makes Gin Rum & Whisky in very small batches, it doesn’t make money, I supply Harrods Fortnum & Mason, Buckingham Palace, it all started when I got sued over a chimney at my office -
m.ruclips.net/video/yqCEEC1wWWM/видео.html
I asked Richard if I can make a film about my bespoke suit ....I can’t wait to chat to you as I want your advice please.
Kindest regards
Ian the plumber
Love fedoras, but I’ve been enthusiastically collecting newsboy caps in cotton and linen and they’ve been wonderful for here in Florida! Have a new Panama coming in though for the really hot days.
Thanks for the informative video. A great hat maker in the US is Optimo Hats in Chicago. I own one of their fedoras and one of the Montecristi Panama hats. Got the Chicago seasons covered.
Always appreciate new leads. Thanks so much and the Fedora and Panama seem to be the leading contenders!
Cheers from Bourgogne, ~Sonya
Just purchased my first hat, a navy blue fedora. Purchased on line and the fit was just a touch large. My next will be a Panama hat.
Congratulations ! Hugo
Been wearing wide brimmed hats (3.5" or more) with wide lapel suits, it goes perfectly
I think I just found out what gets Sonya excited the way shoes do for Hugo! Your red hat reminds me of the one Prince wore in one of his famous performances playing While My Guitar Gently Weeps.
What charisma Prince had & I think I recall the performance. Glad to came across as having energy on the subject. Thanks so much for the reply. ~Sonya
I’ve been wanting to use Panama hats, especially given how hot the climate is wheee I live. Used to regularly use flat caps but it tore and I haven’t found a replacement I liked enough
Hats are one of my all time favorite accessories, it really makes me feel that nonchalant/sprezzatura. The biggest advice I give to anyone who is wanting to wear hats, is...
1) figure out what feels comfortable when you wear it. You will only wear the hat if it’s something you’ll love. I have one particular light brown fedora I wear all the time in and out of suits. It always feels an easy choice to me to wear with not only my wardrobe but I definitely feeling it showing off my personality.
2) Don’t be afraid to buy different colored hats of the same style, especially if you found one you like. Sometimes you’ll find that one particular hat type works for you but you may want to switch out the color with something that compliments it a bit more. Like I have hats of the same type but in black, brown, and grey.
I appreciate the comment section here for the responses like you've given. It makes so much sense to repeat-buy the hat you love in different colors. Thanks for that, Sonya
Yes,i have lots of same hat style in different colours
Headwear can really make an outfit, and you're right that you develop a relationship with the thing.
I started by making the transition from a baseball cap to a flat cap years ago, and that sartorial step helped me get more comfortable being a "hat guy." Eventually I picked up a panama for summers, and just recently acquired a gorgeous chocolate beaver felt fedora from Agnoulita Hats.
Having a hat is great, and I definitely recommend folks give them a go.
If I had to give advice on getting used to hats, Is recommend folks either to start simple with a cap and work their way around, or to think functionally and get a hat for a specific purpose or season. Also helps if the rest of your outfit is nice too.
You obviously speak this wisdom from experience, and this will help others who are trying to find their way around the hat dilemma. Thanks for taking the time ! ~Sonya
I'm wanting to see if I can ease myself, and then maybe my partner, into hat wearing. The harsh Australian sun makes it a good idea. My partner always wears a cap when he goes out but it's very casual and I'd like to see if I can get him into something a bit fancier for when he's suited up. He's also in the army and seeing him in his slouch hat always does things to me ;)
Not for with a suit of course, but you can't go past a good Akubra for a truly comfortable casual hat that'll take anything you throw at it.
Sonya, hats off for this video.
Thank you, K ! ~Sonya
I've alwys worn a hat. I have a cheap baseball-type hat for every day etc. when I go out and about, The vintage 1950's Tribly comes out. I'm still looking for a Panama hat and a regular fedora. However, As my head size is extremely small. 6 5/5 or the like, It's extremely hard to find any hats that come close to fitting me.
Hi Kenneth, If you love hats that much, maybe you should go bespoke ? I do like the thought of a hat being a comfort item. Thanks for watching and happy hat hunting! ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS I would but it's not something I can afford. And finding a hat maker in my area is impossible. So I go with Vintage from Etsy.
I would like to address the concept of fedoras and trilbies being different types of hat. Avoiding some much older historical complications (e.g. if you go really far back, the term fedora used much more broadly for any soft, felt hat - including homburgs), the term fedora (for most of its historical use) has applied to anything that people would recognise as a fedora or trilby (i.e. any soft hat with a snap brim) in American English. Conversely, the term trilby was used in British English for the same. The term trilby travelled to the US with British made hats that had relatively narrow brims (marketed as hats to wear to the races). The term fedora wasn't really heard in the UK until it was popularised by phenomena like Indiana Jones. It is from this history that we get the modern perception that fedoras and trilbies are different types of hat, when truly they are the same, with some people being more likely to apply one term or another based on brim width. Does the distinction or lack of distinction really matter? Perhaps not, but people will find that they are suited to hats with different proportions, and arbitrarily dividing soft, snap brim hats into two categories helps to limit that, as "fedoras" tend to be produced with not only wider brims, but also straighter crowns, whilst "trilbies" tend to be produced with narrower brims and more tapered crowns. But people really need more variety than that to find hats that suit their face and body - I, for example, favour wider, flatter brims (at least 7cm), but also more tapered crowns (as an enthusiast of open-crown hats and doing my own bashing, I can deal with the tapering issue myself).
I would also argue that the pork pie hat is really just another variety of fedora/trilby, in that it is another soft hat with a snap brim, just specifically with a pork pie crown (which other hats can also have - e.g. a Homburg could have a pork pie crown).
Any recommendations for cleaning hats? My wife had given me a fedora years ago, and I ended up having to throw it away because I was unable to find anyone that could clean and reblock it.
You can brush and lint roll for general cleaning and use water mixed with vinegar for wiping down and I've heard sprinkling with starch loosens stains (but haven't tried it). Also, don't leave a wet hat in the sun to dry.
Regarding re-blocking, I'm out of my element and can't answer. It's something I need to learn more about. Maybe someone here knows more.
Thanks for the great question, and
Cheers from Bourgogne, ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS To re-block at home you need to hold the hat over steam (kettle full of boiling water works nicely) until it softens, then re-shape the creases/brim with your fingers while it cools. This works fine for neatening up or making reasonable adjustments to a hats shape, but if you want it looking new or want to fully change the crease/pinch lay-out then you'll need to go to a professional hatter. They will fully steam the crown and re-block it back to a dome shape, then start the creases from new.
always a pleasure... here in El Salvador, a hat [panamena] is perfect for those hot sunny days.
I could only imagine. Thanks for watching! ~Sonya
Thanks a lot for this nice introduction to wearing hats. It does not solve the question of which hat is for me ? I get the impression that is has something to do with the inage you wish to emanate, but the shape of your face does something as well. Would it be possible to make an episode around this question ?
Any good hat pairings with darker tweed suits, I've got a couple flatcaps, but I'd like to expand my horizons.
Hi Andrew,
My instinct is to try either the fedora, homburg, pork pie, or trilby in a monochromatic color (with the same color band) similar to the color of your dark tweed suit. Blending the hat with the suit should create a coherent, comfortable look when you're just starting out with hats versus caps. Cheers, ~Sonya
Very good, caused me to do several google searches as I watched. Any suggestions for men with large heads
Hugo has the same problem. He's worn a smoking hat in London with success but nothing else except a beanie (but he hasn't made many efforts yet on the subject). Strangely smaller hats often look better on bigger heads. I haven't figured out why. In the end, you have to experiment and see what resonates. Cheers ! ~Sonya
Thank you for taking the time to reply it is appreciated@@SARTORIALTALKS
I have been wearing a fedora from Stetson for a few years now, and I absolutely agree ! Do not simply put the hat on your head ! Bend it, play with its curves, wear it more on the front (just above the eyes) or on the back of your head, left or right side ? Each changes give a nex attitude to your silhouette !
I'm glad to read your reply Nathan, and also to know you do the same ritual with shifting the hat around until it feels right. Cheers ! ~Sonya
@@SARTORIALTALKS thanks ! Yes, with the same hat if it's not shifted "the right way" i just feel dumb...
i love people talking about hats. i have a homburg, pork pie, fedora, trilby and a rollable panama. they are such lovely additions. and you're right, play with it when you put it on. take a selfie. i didn't like it when they became fashionable. you could see people with hats on their heads, not wearing them.
I agree, Kevin--traditional hats are so much more interesting. Stay stylish ! ~Sonya
This is a great day! Just as I was watching this video, I get a notification, lo and behold, Sonya Glyn has replied to a comment I left in a very old video! You guys are awesome, in being so approachable. Well I live in the Middle East and I do wear plenty of Panama hats(Ultrafino, Stetsons). They were are intuitively picked, now it is nice to know their history. I usually wear them dressed down with linen, printed shirts and polos, never had an occasion to do justice to a few Fedoras I own(other than when I get to travel). Please could you do a video on flat caps too and recommend a few for hot weather/evenings. Receding hairline, forever hot weather, all the more strong reasons to have hats and flat caps a staple and possibly wear them even to work..I just changed my DP to a pic with one of my favorite hat, honoring this post :) And yes, agree on the tilt and going incognito sometimes :) )Much love and best wishes.
What great energy in your reply, thanks ! And I think you have pushed me to the point to do an episode on caps---it seems the interest is there & this thread has been educational. Thanks for the well thought out reply. Cheers, ~Sonya
Thank you for this - would like to learn more about the Bavarian-Austrian style of hat, which looks great but unfortunately is now associated in the minds of many only with the drinking party called Oktoberfest.
Just got a trilby for my nieces wedding this put a smile on my face thanks for tip re angling hat hat virgin hope it turns out good lol
I can’t agree. I simply love hats, of all kinds. I will never be a to own enough. The one thing is, the first hat you mention seems to be often referred to a Homburg. I wonder which is correct?
This is the level of ease with hats that leaves a lovely impression---indeed the Homburg! ~Sonya
I never thought I had a "hat head" until I tried on a trilby at a store and it actually fit, which is when I learned that hats had sizes too. Wore it for a while but it was very difficult to wear it around here without it feeling like a costume so I dropped it.
But a couple years ago I tried on a flat cap, and it just felt so natural that I ended up with 4 and wear them most of the time and I even got one to wear at home when it's cold.
If anyone thinks they can't wear a hat, they just haven't found the right one yet.
Really down-to-earth review of a headgear experience. Now I'm convinced that speaking about caps would be worth it. Classic caps could make a solid comeback, since so many feel such gratification upon trying.
Thanks for you reply, ~Sonya Glyn
I've always been a fan of the Trilby and fedora hats and I'm trying to find ways to add them in my wardrobe. Also it happens that I'm a classically trained guitarist with jazz influences.
The musical influence is huge in the hat arena, so your reply makes a lot of sense. Cheers from Bourgogne, ~Sonya
I have the problem of any hat framing my big eyes oddly, making them look bulging. Any suggestions?
Sometimes a smaller brimmed hat will show more of your facial features to balance out a specific prominent feature like large eyes---but it's really a trial-and-error process (because only you know how a specific hat makes you feel when you wear it). Cheers, ~Sonya