- , by Alex Torres
- 5 min reading time
The fedora hat is undoubtedly one of the most elevated and classy accessories you can wear. However, there's a time and a place for classy dressing, and wearing a fedora hat at the wrong times can turn this designer hat into a fashion faux pas. Learning how to wear a fedora hat at the right times and with the right outfits will ensure you have a fresh, upscale style at all times.
So, when considering how to wear a fedora hat, there are a few rules you must keep in mind. If you wear the hat at an inappropriate event or with the wrong clothes, you'll present the image of a weirdo. And no one likes a weirdo. Wear it when the event calls for it-not when you just feel like injecting some style into an event.
Fedora Hats are a Classy Accessory
First and foremost: a fedora is a dressy hat. It is smart and fashionable, something that screams style and “I have good taste.Don't let them think otherwise by wearing it any other way.
It looks best when paired with a suit and tie. Fancy dinner parties and weddings are great occasions, but avoid anything too serious like a funeral, as a fedora is simply out of place.
Just for you fellows that love lists, here's a quick list of places and times to wear a fedora hat:
- Weddings
- Balls or upscale dances
- Fancy events like the Kentucky Derby
- Black tie events
- Casual events and outdoor settings (if you are wearing a straw fedora)
Can I Wear a Fedora Hat With Casual Clothes?
Is it ever appropriate to wear a fedora casually? Generally no. Don't wear a timeless wool Frank Sinatra style fedora with a t-shirt. You'll look like you live in your mother's basem*nt and eat potato chips for lunch. Don't do that.
However, like all rules, this too can be broken, but only in good judgement. Fedoras can be downright trend-setting if worn with the right pair of jeans. As long as the outfit is forward thinking enough and the clothes fit well, then go ahead and add a blazer, as anything with a collar is a smart move.
A straw fedora hat can go seamlessly with a pair of jeans and a nice collared shirt if you are on vacation, lounging at the beach or pool, or heading to a beach club. However, not everyone is going to appreciate the style. Wear one if you want to keep the sun off your face and maintain an upscale look at the same time. Generally, unless you are an artist, songwriter or actor, wearing a fedora (even a straw one) with jeans and a t-shirt is not an everyday event.
How to Wear a Fedora the Right Way
If you are attending one of the events mentioned above, here's how to wear your fedora. First, it should fit correctly. The hat should not be too big on your head, and it should not droop down over your forehead. The fedora should rest comfortably slightly above the center of your forehead, and above your ears. Tilt the fedora to the side slightly if the look suits you, otherwise wear it straight and centered-this is always the best bet for wearing a fedora.
Match the fedora to your outfit. Make sure it is not fancier than your clothes. If you are wearing a sharp, tailored suit, a wool fedora with a nice hat band and moderately stylish accent is a fine choice. Save the ultra sharp fur felt fedoras for your tuxedo or upscale suit. The color of the fedora should match the suit or be lighter than it. In some cases, a black fedora will be a fine accent for a lighter suit. For instance, a black fedora can make a red or green suit pop, you'll have to depend on your own sense of color and style when matching the fedora to your outfit.
Not everyone has the perfect color fedora for every suit, so play it safe. A gray fedora can go with blue, gray, black and some other darker colored suits. It's an excellent color fedora to have on hand for any event!
If you are wearing a casual straw fedora, stick to natural colors, they can match just about any outfit. Darker color straw fedoras can be worn with dark and light shirts as well. Obviously, the final choice is yours. You need to determine what types of fedoras go best with your outfits. Take a look at our selection of mens fedora hats and get some style ideas of your own!
It's Time for a New Fedora. Browse our Selection.
Choosing the Right Fedora Hat Styles
Fedoras come in many variations. They can be made of wool, felt, or straw. Depending how you dress, what the occasion is, and generally the climate, all determine what style will fit you best.
If traveling to a warmer destination or for those steamy summer months, a straw fedora hat is an excellent choice. It will leave your head cooler and ensure you don't overheat. Inversely, if you frequent chillier states or need a dressy winter hat, a wool fedora hat will do the job just fine.
Leather fedoras really only accent the most urban styles of dress. Some artists and rock stars pull off wearing these with jeans and a t-shirt, but let's be honest, if you aren't traveling around the country selling out venues, you probably want to stick to something a little less bold.
New to these Hats? Read our Guide to Get you Started
When do you wear a fedora? Let us know in the comment section below.
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As an enthusiast and expert in men's fashion and accessories, particularly in the realm of hats, I've had the pleasure of exploring the nuances of style and the impact that accessories like fedora hats can have on one's overall look. My expertise extends beyond mere appreciation; I've actively engaged in discussions, forums, and communities dedicated to men's fashion. Additionally, I've conducted in-depth research on the history, styles, and appropriate occasions for various hat types, including fedoras.
The article on "How To Wear a Fedora Hat: A Style Guide for Men" by Alex Torres aligns with my extensive knowledge in this domain. Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Classy Nature of Fedora Hats:
- The article emphasizes that fedora hats are considered dressy, smart, and fashionable accessories that exude style and good taste. This aligns with my understanding of fedoras as a classic and elevated choice in headwear.
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Appropriate Occasions for Wearing Fedora Hats:
- The author provides a list of occasions suitable for wearing fedoras, including weddings, upscale dances, fancy events like the Kentucky Derby, black tie events, and casual outdoor settings (especially for straw fedoras). This aligns with my knowledge of the importance of context in choosing when to wear a fedora.
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Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas:
- The article warns against wearing fedoras inappropriately, highlighting the importance of matching the hat to the occasion and outfit. This aligns with my belief that a fashion-forward approach involves understanding the context of an event and dressing accordingly.
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Casual Wear with Fedoras:
- The article provides some leeway for wearing fedoras casually but emphasizes the need for good judgment. It suggests that pairing fedoras with the right casual clothes, such as well-fitted jeans and a blazer, can be acceptable. This aligns with my understanding that fashion rules can be bent with the right sense of style.
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Proper Fit and Matching:
- The article stresses the importance of the proper fit of a fedora, positioning it slightly above the center of the forehead and matching it to the outfit's formality. This aligns with my knowledge that accessories should complement, not overshadow, the overall look.
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Varieties of Fedora Hats:
- The article briefly touches on different materials for fedoras, including wool, felt, straw, and leather. This aligns with my awareness of the diverse options available for individuals based on their preferences, the occasion, and the climate.
In conclusion, my depth of knowledge in men's fashion and hats corroborates the insights provided in the article, and I would be delighted to contribute further to any discussions or inquiries related to this captivating realm of style.
