The Return of the Statement Hat: How to Style It for Everyday Glamour
There’s something magical about a hat that turns heads. From Old Hollywood icons to modern fashion muses, the statement hat has always whispered elegance, mystery, and bold personality. And now, it's back—bigger, bolder, and more glamorous than ever.
In an age of curated aesthetics, digital first impressions, and capsule wardrobes, accessories like hats are no longer just seasonal or functional—they’re transformative tools of personal style. A well-chosen hat doesn’t just finish an outfit. It makes the outfit.
If you're hesitant about how to wear one in your everyday life, don’t worry. Today, we’re exploring how to reintroduce statement hats into your daily rotation—without feeling like you’re in costume. Whether you're headed to brunch, a work meeting, or a summer getaway, here's how to channel everyday glamour with a hat that speaks volumes.
Why the Statement Hat Is Back
1. Fashion Cycles Are Embracing Bold Accessories Again
Fashion always comes full circle. Just like wide-leg pants and power shoulders, dramatic headwear from the '60s, '70s, and even the early 2000s is making a high-style return. Designers like Jacquemus, Loewe, and Gucci have leaned into oversized brims, sculptural details, and rich textures.
2. Social Media Loves a Good Hat Moment
From Pinterest to Instagram and TikTok, hats are leading the way in "quiet luxury" and "rich mom" aesthetics. A statement hat instantly elevates a simple outfit—perfect for that one-swipe first impression.
3. Protective Yet Stylish
Beyond their aesthetic value, wide-brimmed hats offer real benefits: sun protection, frizz control, and a dash of mystery. Why not look fabulous while shielding your skin and hair?
Types of Statement Hats to Explore
Not all statement hats are created equal. Each style has a personality. Here’s how to find your match:
1. Wide-Brim Straw Hats
Perfect for: Summer getaways, garden brunches, and beach strolls.
Think Riviera glam or Old Hollywood on vacation. Look for unique weaves, ribbon trims, and extra-large silhouettes.
Style it with:
A slip dress and dainty sandals
White linen sets and pearl jewelry
Oversized sunglasses and a woven tote
2. Embellished Berets
Perfect for: Fall street style, Parisian-inspired looks, or casual coffee dates.
With pearls, veils, or embroidered designs, berets make a feminine yet commanding statement.
Style it with:
A cropped cardigan and wide-leg pants
A trench coat and ankle boots
A matching bold lip
3. Fedora or Structured Felt Hats
Perfect for: City chic, polished officewear, or layered transitional weather looks.
Timeless and powerful. Look for rich textures like wool, velvet, or suede in neutral or jewel tones.
Style it with:
A power blazer and trousers
Turtlenecks and midi skirts
Layered gold necklaces
4. Vintage Cloche or Pillbox Hats
Perfect for: Elegant affairs, afternoon tea, weddings, or photoshoots.
These hats channel 1920s and '50s sophistication. Ideal for dressing up.
Style it with:
A-line dresses and gloves
Faux fur shawls or pearl earrings
A cinched waist and pumps
5. Modern Sculptural Pieces (a la Imperial Lola)
Perfect for: Fashion-forward glam, content shoots, or when you're feeling extra.
With dramatic bows, veils, feathers, or architectural shapes—these are showstoppers.
Style it with:
A minimalist outfit to let the hat shine
Monochromatic tones for drama
Confidence (always)
How to Style a Statement Hat Without Overdoing It
If the thought of wearing a dramatic hat in public intimidates you, here’s the secret: balance. Keep your outfit intentional but not busy. Let the hat be the punctuation mark.
1. Start with Neutrals
Begin with outfits in white, beige, black, or navy. Neutrals act as a canvas that won’t compete with the hat’s personality.
2. Use Texture, Not Color Overload
Instead of going for clashing patterns, mix texture—linen with leather, knits with denim. This adds depth without distraction.
3. Focus on One Statement Piece at a Time
If your hat is bold, keep other accessories minimal. Opt for simple studs over chandelier earrings, and structured bags over slouchy totes.
4. Confidence Is Your Best Styling Tool
The most glamorous people don’t just wear clothes—they inhabit them. Don’t hide under your hat; let it be part of your posture, your expression, your walk.
Everyday Occasions to Wear a Statement Hat
Worried you’ll only wear it once? Let’s break that myth. A statement hat can fit beautifully into your everyday life.
Travel Days
Nothing says “effortlessly chic” like a traveler in a hat. It hides tired eyes, protects from sun, and looks amazing in photos.
Pair with:
A matching lounge set
An oversized blazer
Gold hoops and loafers
Coffee or Lunch with Friends
Keep the outfit relaxed but stylish. Let the hat do the work.
Pair with:
A shirt dress and sandals
High-waisted jeans and a puff sleeve top
Crossbody bag and sunglasses
Work (Yes, Really!)
Hats can be worn to creative meetings or casual Fridays. Opt for less volume but more polish.
Pair with:
Structured tailoring
A silk blouse and midi skirt
Sleek hair and subtle makeup
Sunday Markets or Park Days
Wide-brim or soft berets are dreamy for outdoor strolls and weekend wandering.
Pair with:
A sundress and flats
Linen jumpsuit and basket bag
Natural curls or loose braids
Where to Shop or Find the Perfect Statement Hat
You don’t need a designer budget to add a bold hat to your wardrobe. Here’s where to look:
1. Vintage Shops & Markets
Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures that tell a story. Bonus: sustainable fashion points.
2. Independent Brands Like Imperial Lola
For modern-day heirlooms, handcrafted elegance, and editorial-worthy silhouettes, brands like Imperial Lola bring couture-level drama to wearable art.
3. Department Stores or Online Boutiques
Look for quality materials—wool felt, stiffened straw, or velvet—and details like embroidery or structured trims.
Tips for Photographing Your Statement Hat
Want that magazine-worthy shot for Instagram? Try this:
Angle is everything. Slight tilt of the head or brim creates intrigue.
Light behind the hat. Creates dreamy outlines and mood.
Movement helps. Let the hat catch the breeze—more candid, less posed.
Add a prop. Think coffee cup, bouquet, or sunglasses.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Embrace the Statement Hat
The statement hat isn’t just about style. It’s about presence. It's about saying:
“I’ve arrived, and I know who I am.”
It transforms a simple outfit into a fashion moment. It’s elegance, empowerment, and a little bit of old-school drama—wrapped into one accessory.
And the best part? You don’t need an invitation to wear one. You are the occasion.
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Shop the Look
Explore handcrafted statement hats, romantic berets, and embellished headpieces at Imperial Lola—exclusively available via WhatsApp Business.
DM us to reserve your piece or inquire about custom designs.
Grace Olayiwola
Founder of Imperial Lola | Lifestyle Blogger at BitsStyleJourney
Helping women romanticize everyday life through timeless style, self-care, and slow living.
