Originally used to protect against the sun, hats have since become real fashion accessories. They allow for a distinctive look. Wearing a hat can also change a person’s face and give them more confidence. Indeed, there is a wide variety of hats available on the market today. But which one to choose to better assert your style?
The straw hat
Of unknown origin, its first production in France dates back to the 18th century. This makes it a relatively recent hat compared to felt hats, even though they are unmatched in terms of elegance. Moreover, like the hats available on mon-chapeau-de-paille.com, straw hats are woven with natural fibers. Among the most common models we have:
- The wide-brim straw hat;
- The farmer’s straw hat;
- The short-brim straw hat.
There are also straw hats with small brims and a flat crown, like the one worn by Maurice Chevalier. The sombrero and its variants, on the other hand, are classified in the category of wide brims.

The Stetson
The Stetson is a wide-brim felt hat made from very fine materials with great precision. We distinguish between wool felt Stetson and non-woven fur Stetson. Furthermore, the felt Stetson can be worn by both men and women. It can be worn with formal attire when one wants to exude charisma.
That said, the felt Stetson can help highlight an oversized look. But in this case, one must play with the matching of colors. It should be noted that unlike straw hats, felt Stetsons are not very suitable for scorching hot seasons.
The beret
Brimless headgear of Phrygian origin, typically made of felt or wool in a circular and flattened shape, the beret has become a very trendy fashion accessory in France. An endlessly modernized vintage accessory, the beret is a staple in wardrobes for both cool and warm weather.
In felt, it finds favor with men; however, women, to give it a more feminine touch, do not hesitate to personalize it with beads. You can wear it with formal outfits like jackets. Women will find it more chic with short dresses and long tights. However, you can wear it as you feel if you have an eye for fashionable color combinations.
The Panama
Don’t be misled by its name! The Panama hat originates from Ecuador. It is primarily made from natural fibers of the toquilla palm. Both vintage and trendy, the Panama hat has the advantage of transcending all seasons. This makes it a true timeless piece.
Originally designed to be worn by men, this accessory is also used by women. Unlike the felt hat, the straw Panama hat can be worn everywhere and with any outfit. It is entirely handmade, which gives it a certain uniqueness. To complement a dress with a western belt, for example, women can opt for a slightly shimmering white Panama.