Hattery flattery

     Watch an old movie and you will see hats.  Hats that aren't just crumpled in a pile and shoved on the head for warmth, but styling hats.  It's a ladies accessory we have forgotten about.  We still spend money on shoes and jewelry, but what happened to the hat?  By the way, although I've worn my fair share of baseball caps, let's not consider them as a styling hat!

     A styling hat is just that.  It's a thought out accessory that compliments your style.  It shouldn't be an afterthought.  It is as planned as the rest of your outfit.  Granted, if you're heading to the ballpark, shove the baseball cap on your head.  Truthfully though, if you're going outside, why not style in a hat that also protects you from excessive sun exposure that can damage skin?

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     Personally, I have become more and more intrigued with the cloche style hats.  Late last summer I crocheted a cloche to wear casually out raking leaves or whenever I wanted a little head covering for a little warmth.  Recently, I pulled out a McCalls hat pattern and whipped up a simple cloche hat from felt.  I made the one pictured top right below, in an afternoon.  For the center of the flowers I dug out some vintage buttons and that added a nice detail.  Overall, I was very pleased and have received quite a few compliments.  However, as the brim hits the collar of my winter coat, it will have to be modified next time.

   

My hat - black felt with swirl pattern - vintage buttons.

    I've also just purchased an old Simplicity pattern on eBay that has a hat included with a dress.  I'm anxious to try it out as it is kind of a simple pillbox style.  I doubt that will interfere with my coat collar.

     I've also made a fleece hat off of Simplicity pattern 1959.  I'm not highly recommended this without modifications.  The main picture on the envelope shows a cute slouch like fleece hat.  Against my better judgement, I followed the pattern instructions and I did NOT use any interfacing in the brim.  Consequently my brim looks wavy and sloppy.  I might consider making another as this hat was quick and simple even with the added lining in the crown.  (Now why would I add lining if I didn't add interfacing?  Why? WHY? WHY?!!!)