There was a time when baseball hats were reserved for bad hair days or incognito missions (like running errands in your ex’s neighborhood). But that was then, and this is now. They’re no longer just the accessory you steal from your dad’s closet in a crisis. Thanks to the fashion set, we’ve upgraded casual caps to permanent accessory status.
Take it from Christine Ryan, MLB Vice President, Apparel: “Baseball caps have evolved into a cultural staple that goes far beyond the ballpark,” she told Cosmopolitan. “Today's fans are just as likely to style a team cap with their favorite everyday look as they are to wear it to a game.”
It’s true: the throw-on-and-go addition style makes every outfit infinitely cooler—as long as you know how to wear one. Think: more Hailey Bieber street style, less “I forgot to wash my hair.” Luckily, the former shouldn’t be too hard to pull off, especially with help and inspo. Chelsea Freeman, who is married to L.A. Dodgers player Freddie Freeman, says it best: “A Dodgers cap has always been more than game-day gear for me. It instantly pulls an outfit together. I love pairing one with elevated basics because it makes any look feel effortless while letting me show my support.”
Ahead, you’ll find baseball cap outfits that nail the trend (and won’t confuse you for a little leaguer).
Not your average baseball caps
Aritzia New York Yankees 9TWENTY Hat
MLB x ‘47 Boston Red Sox Vacay Scenes Cap
Motel Margarita Retire Dad Hat
'47 Hot Dog Baseball Cap
Kenz Kustomz Dilly Dally Baseball Cap
Peanuts Snoopy Embroidered Icon Washed Dad Hat
With a Silk Scarf
Much like baseball caps, silk scarves are having a major moment right now. And while we’re obsessed with the accessories individually, they work twice as hard together. It’s the most unexpected and eclectic style combo—in the best way.
Utility Chic
There’s something so cool girl about dressing like a hot mechanic (that’s a sentence I never thought I’d write), but you can’t argue with the charm of a good trucker hat. Lean into the vibe and pair it with a barn jacket and utility pants.
With a Trench Coat
The ultimate model-off-duty outfit formula? Pair your fave baseball cap with a trench, and you’ll absolutely look the part. The pairing gives off a casual-cool vibe. Finish with leggings and loafers for the laziest possible outfit that still looks extremely put-together.
Canadian Cowboy Hat
There are more ways to rock the denim-on-denim trend than just a Canadian tuxedo (though I am forever an advocate of that combo). Toss on a denim baseball cap with your fave jeans, and add a pop of color or texture to really tie together the look. Personally, I love a crimson red.
With a Crisp Suit
This tops the list as one of my favorite ways to wear a baseball hat. There's just something so cool about throwing one on with an expensive-looking power suit and a pair of hoop earrings.
Covered in Brooches
Your accessories need accessories too. Cover your dad cap in brooches (or even earrings) for a glitzy take on the sporty favorite. It will instantly level up the look and give it a more intentional edge.
Worn Backwards With a Blazer
This is the year of the backwards hat, trust me—especially with an oversized blazer, tortoise shell sunglasses, and a cool little east-west bag. Such a moment.
Instead of a Red Lip
Taylor Swift's signature glam has its merits—I won't deny it. But if you're feeling a little edgier, try swapping her cherry red lip for a baseball cap in the same shade. It'll give a cool contrast to the classic all-black 'fit.
Scandi-Girl Vibes
If you've scrolled through street style pics from Copenhagen Fashion Week, one thing is clear: Those girls love a blue striped button-down. Add a baseball cap and a frilly bag to dupe the Scandi-girl look.
With a Jersey
Any frat boy will tell you: This is a winning combo. If you want to make the combo feel more baddie than bro, make sure to pair several layers of Rihanna-inspired gold chains with your cargo pants.
All-White
Layers of cream always look chic—because if you can get through a whole day without spilling on them, you know you have your life together. Use a matching baseball cap as the finishing touch for a tennis match or weekend park stroll.
Embrace the Irony
Camo hats are back, baby! I will not be digging deeper into why that is, but they do add a fun, eclectic vibe to whatever you pair them with. Just go with it!
With Longline Shorts
Bermudas have been on every mood board since May, and I will personally see to it that that continues. This fall, you can style your baseball cap of choice with your own pair and other elevated staples.
With a Leather Jacket
Maximize the joint slay of these two flop-proof basics. Sprinkle in a little camo print, and you'll be a hit at any trendy dive bar.
With Formal Attire
To really test the bounds of a baseball cap's styling capabilities, I recommend wearing it with a more dressy look. When done right, a trucker hat will make even the more formal-looking skirt feel cool.
Megan Schaltegger is an NYC-based writer. She loves strong coffee, eating her way through the Manhattan food scene, and her dog, Murray. She promises not to talk about herself in third person IRL.
Kelsey (she/her) is a freelance digital fashion editor and writer with a knack for turning top-performing content into top-selling content. She has extensive experience in editorial and e-commerce strategy, having worked in both divisions during her years at Seventeen and Bustle. With more than a decade of experience in digital media, she also offers creative and social media consulting, as well as copywriting services. She enjoys cheeseburgers, traveling, and vintage hauls. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
