There’s more to a man’s hat than just the hat itself. The right accessories can make all the difference in pulling together a polished and refined look.
But when did men’s hats start to get accessorized? Since the dawn of men’s fashion, men have been wearing accessories with their hats.
It all dates back hundreds of years when men wore hats as a symbol of their class, wealth and status. Accessorizing men’s hats was the way men asserted their style by choosing hat pins, feathers, ribbons, and other decorative elements.
Now let’s take a look at some men’s hat accessories that are still popular today.
Brief History of Men’s Western Hat Accessories
The early days of the American West were a time of style and swagger, with men flocking to borrow the fashion trends of cowboys, gamblers and lawmen.
One of the most recognizable symbols of this era was the type of hat that everyone from ranchers to gunfighters wore: the iconic wide-brimmed western hat.
While it was made popular by icons like Wyatt Earp and Wild Bill Hickok, these classic styles were taken to new heights by some imaginative accessories.
Bandannas or feathers were often added for flair, or a hatband or concho might be used to add personality. Even earflaps were employed for extra protection from the elements–or bandits!
The look has been passed down through generations since then, reflecting on a proud tradition of taking an ordinary item and making it something truly original.
And while modern fashion trends have seen some reinterpretations of this classic look (think steampunk), there’s still a certain lasting charm associated with those old-fashioned hats studded with accessories.
After all, both style and substance endure in equal measure when you are wearing one of these iconic pieces of western history.
Classic Men’s Hat Accessories
Though men’s hats come in various shapes, sizes, and styles today, some classic men’s hat accessories will never go out of fashion.
The Feather
A single feather placed in the band of a hat is a timeless way to add a touch of class. Ostrich, pheasant, and peacock feathers are particularly popular choices.
Not only do they look great, but they also help keep your hat in place on windy days.
The Silk or Leather Hat Band
A hatband can not only add a pop of color or texture to your look, but it can also help you achieve the perfect fit.
Most hatbands are made from either silk or leather, though you can find other materials like straw or ribbon as well.
If you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities in your hat, be sure to choose a sweat-resistant hatband material like leather.
The Hat Clip
A hat clip is a small metal clasp that attaches to the brim of your hat and helps keep it securely in place.
They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so you’re sure to find one that fits your personal style. Plus, they’re an easy way to add a little bit of personality to your look.
Tips for Choosing the Right Men’s Hat Accessories
Now that you know some of the classic hat accessories available, here are a few tips for choosing the right ones for you:
Consider your daily activities
The perfect men’s hat accessory, like the perfect hat, can make all the difference when it comes to expressing yourself, your style, and most importantly, your personality.
The key is to consider not just what you want people to think when they see you but also how certain accessories might function by your daily activities.
For example, if you’re always on the go and need a look that stands out for business meetings or after-work drinks, a men’s fedora with a colorful bow tie should be the way to go!
On the other hand, if you love spending weekends at home baking pies or sipping coffee while reading one of your favorite books, then why not try some beanie hats that come in various colors and styles?
Whichever head swag tickles your fancy (and keeps cool in hot weather!), Make sure it matches your lifestyle – it could influence how people see you or start conversations.
Pay attention to proportions
Make sure the elements you choose aren’t too overwhelming or small compared to your hat. A good rule of thumb is to keep it simple – less is more.
The accessories should enhance the overall look, not distract from it. If you use feathers, for example, it should be proportional to the size of your headpiece.
Also, make sure that the colors you choose complement each other and don’t clash. Finally, please double-check your accessories are securely fastened so they don’t fall off during wear!
Consider your personal style
From fedoras to baseball caps and everything in between, men’s hats come in many shapes and sizes. That’s why it’s important to consider your personal style when choosing men’s hat accessories.
For men looking to add some style and panache, consider adding a feather boa or shawl around the crown of your favorite hat – this whimsical touch is sure to turn heads.
If you’re looking for something more on-trend, try accessorizing with jewels or metallic details on or around the brim.
For men who prefer something more simple and classic, consider scratch bands with leather detailing or a traditional tweed cap for timeless style.
Whatever men’s hat accessories you choose, never underestimate their power to transform any look!
Conclusion
No matter what your style may be, no doubt adding the right accessories to your men’s hats can elevate your look.
There are endless ways to add personality and charm, from feathers and silk bands to metal clips. So go ahead and experiment until you find the perfect combination for you.
