I have a love hate relationship with winter hats. I love the cozy warmth and protection from the elements, but hate the fact that I cannot take it off without exposing serious hat head. Enter the cloche.
I had relegated the cloche to an occasional fall accessory until I saw a stylish lady sporting one downtown on an ice cold day. She was wearing a stylish pea coat, tall black boots, fuzzy black scarf and gloves and the cutest cloche hat I had ever seen. The kicker was when she entered the building and took her hat off. Shockingly her hair was not sticking up or matted down.
The word “cloche” comes from a French word which means “bell.” This style fits close to the head making it suitable for windy weather and the long length protects the ears from winter chill. Aside from function, the style of the cloche is feminine, almost playful and so it suits a wide variety of outfits.
Choosing a cloche hat
Look for personality. Lean towards cloche hats with a touch of personality. A fabric flower, buckle or bow adds interest to a plain hat. Although if you fall in love with a plain hat feel free to hit the fabric store for some embellishments. For example, a fake flower can be pinned on the side of the hat, or a ribbon can be added to give a simple hat a new look.
Even monotone hats can be extra special as this cloche hat with burned out velvet trim and felt flower shows. The shape and details on this roaring twenties style hat are perfect. How about a fur-lined cloche hat complete with matching mittens? Style & Co carries a unique shiny cloche hat that is lined with faux fur and ready to keep you looking fab even on the coldest winter day.
Stand out from the sea of black with a dusty rose cloche by Jessica Simpson. The matching detail on the side creates an adorable topper. Paired with a wool coat and scarf, you will stay safe from the elements without sacrificing style, or your hair!
Try it on. This rule is mainly for ladies with large heads, like myself. I hate purchasing a cute hat, only to have to pass it down to my ten year old daughter. A cloche should fit snug, but be long enough to cover your ears with some exceptions. A hat that is too small will do nothing for your face or silhouette.
J.C. Penney tends to carry hats in larger sizes. This red cloche with the simple bow detail is an elegant hat that works well with a variety of coat styles and can make the transition to spring easily. I can see it paired with a classic trench coat or a menswear blazer. Green flower cloche is a great choice to perk up a dreary day. The color of the hat may play up your hair color or make your eye color pop, but it will certainly be a refreshing addition to your wardrobe. Charlotte Russe’s leopard trimmed cloche is honest. The description does not simply say, “one size fits all” without any mention of the diameter. Instead it lists the hat as “one size fits most” and goes on to say the inner circumference is 22-inches.
More by Sylvie Branch:
Punk’s ‘still’ not dead: Punk fashions for 2012
Revisiting menswear style for women
Yes, you can wear colored pants