So, you're trying to style a beret. Seen the traditional French hat on the likes of Bella Hadid, Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell and now keen to style one yourself? You're in the right place.
Fun fact: berets, in one form or another, have been around since at least the 19th century, and have been worn pretty much ever since. Originally a felt, round-crowned design worn by the French and Spanish militaries, it's had a bit of a fashion revamp in recent years and is now a slick way to take simple outfit up a notch. Jeans and t-shirt? Add a beret. Casual dress that needs a little extra something? May we present you with, said beret. Even a more dressy heels and skirt look - go on, add a beret!
There are actually a whole range of different types of beret to choose from, from the felt or knitted traditional style we mentioned, to modern takes on the hat, like the leather one above. Not sure which is for you? We've spoken to Roxy Harding, styling team lead at Stitch Fix UK, to get all the insider intel from a fashion expert.
Without further ado: your complete guide to how to wear a beret.
What is a beret?
As above, a round hat originally worn in French and Spain. Nowadays, the beret is something of a fashion staple, according to Roxy.
"When it comes to chic accessories, a timeless beret is always one of my top choices," she explains. Describing what it is, she explains that it's stereotypically a soft, round hat. Traditionally, a beret is made from either woven, hand-knitted wool or wool felt.
"Nowadays, they come in all kinds of materials," she expands. Think:
- Leather
- Faux-leather
- Crochet cotton
- Sequins
- & much more.
Whatever the material, Roxy reckons adding a beret to your look is a fool proof way to upgrade any outfit.
When did berets first come into fashion?
Berets have been storming the fashion scene for centuries now, according to Roxy.
"Embrace your inner history buff: the beret originated in 19th century France and Spain, and was worn as part of many military uniforms worldwide."
Think of berets. What's the first thing connotation comes to mind? We bet it's Paris. But before berets became synonymous with Parisian fashion, the beret was famously worn as a political statement, she goes on.
"Che Guevara, the Argentine revolutionary, wore a beret. It was also worn by the French during the second world war as a symbol of resistance. The Black Panthers wore black leather berets alongside black leather jackets, which Beyonce later made reference to in her Grammys look in 2018," Roxy continues.
But it doesn't stop there - the beret has also been adopted by a whole plethora of creatives and intellectuals over the years, from Hemingway to Picasso.
"We have Coco Chanel to thank for making it such an iconic fashion statement," Roxy concludes. "She was known for taking comfortable men’s clothes and adapting them for the female body, the beret being a great example of this."
Which celebs wear berets now?
Not too long ago, the beret was only braved by fashion icons, high-profile celebs, and supermodels," explains Roxy. Think Kate Moss, Bella Hadid and Naomi Campbell. But today? Everyone's wearing them–and rightly so.
"Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, Rita Ora and Rihanna have all been giving the beret a spin, showing that everyone and anyone can give it a go," she adds.
Why, then, are berets becoming mainstream now, we ask the fashion expert?
Because of their availability, that's why. "Berets are popping up everywhere, from the high street to the runway. I love the berets from Joules and Boden, as they offer super classic, high-quality styles. They're a my go-to when customers are looking to nail a Parisian style," she shares.
Your step-by-step on how to wear a beret
Follow these step-by-step instructions and you'll always rock it, Roxy reassures.
Perfect the tilt
It’s crucial to perfect the tilt, she explains. "Place it on your head so that the brim is fitted, then tilt it ever so slightly to one side. Whichever way feels most natural."
Not too flat
"After you've decided which way to tilt your hat, pull the fabric slightly off your head, to ensure it’s not too flat," Roxy adds.
Lift away from your face
This is key, she stresses. "Remember that the beret elevates your outfit and is designed to lift away from your face." Got it?
8 berets that'll upgrade any look
Not sure a beret is for you?
The key thing to remember about a beret is that it is a statement for a reason, Roxy says. "It’s a powerful accessory that can change an outfit in its entirety." Her recommendations?
Build your outfit based on your beret
Try matching an all-black outfit with a bold red beret, making it the focus and really owning it.
Modernise the look
You can also opt for a less traditional material, such as leather, which will help to modernise your look.
Match it with subtle makeup
This will also ensure your look isn’t too over-the-top.
"Now is a great time to try your hand at sporting a beret," she shares. Before you ask why - because it's nearly Christmas, that's why! "It’s not necessarily something you can throw on as you dash to the post office on your lunch break, but it’s the perfect accessory to heighten your look whilst you grab a takeaway mulled wine, or head to an outdoor Christmas dinner with friends (depending on your tier)," Roxy shares.
So why not give it a go? Remember to own it - you'll look great as long as you're confident.
"If you need styling assistance on what to wear with a beret, sign up to Stitch Fix and let your stylist know. We’re here to find the perfect look for you," she concludes.
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