I've always loved hats. They're a fantastic way to add personality to any outfit and can be incredibly practical, too. But I've also struggled with figuring out when and where it's appropriate to wear them. Is it okay to wear a beanie in the summer? What about a straw hat in winter? I've spent years experimenting and observing, and I'm excited to share my findings with you!
Like many, I started with the basics: beanies and berets for winter, and a trusty straw hat for summer. I was thinking of branching out and adding a fedora to my autumn wardrobe, but the question of seasonality kept popping into my head. I also noticed that on days when my hair just wouldn't cooperate, a cute baseball cap was a lifesaver. But that made me wonder: are there unspoken rules about when and where it's okay to sport different types of hats?
One thing I've personally found is that context matters a lot. I remember once seeing someone wearing a thick knit beanie on a sweltering summer day, and it looked a little out of place. On the other hand, I sometimes opt for a thinner knit hat in the summer. I feel like the crochet ones are less bulky than the thick knit versions, if that makes sense. So, what's the secret to pulling off a hat in any season?
After much trial and error, I've come to the conclusion that seasonality really is a major factor. I have a lot of hair, so I don't always wear hats, but when I do, I try to make sure they're appropriate for the season. For example, I wouldn't wear a straw sun hat during the winter months because it wouldn't keep my head warm. Instead, I'd go for a thick, warm hat.
However, there are exceptions to every rule. In places where summers are mild, a beanie might not seem so out of place. It really depends on the climate and your own personal comfort. I also realized that the material of the hat plays a big role. A bulky Fair Isle knit hat in the summer might make people wonder if you're too hot, but a thinner knit is less likely to raise eyebrows.
Speaking of winter warmth, I recently discovered these New Skullies Beanies for Men from Wholecustomdesign. I got one for my brother, and he loves it. It's a knitted wool cap that's perfect for cycling in the wind. It’s warm without being suffocating, and the brimless design is surprisingly stylish. He says it keeps him warm and comfortable, even on the coldest days. I was so impressed with the quality that I decided to browse full catalog to see what other amazing products Wholecustomdesign offered.

Here are some practical tips I've gathered over the years to help you navigate the world of hats:
I've also noticed that wearing winter hats indoors, like in an office or a coffee shop, can sometimes seem a little out of place. Baseball caps or bandanas seem more acceptable in those situations. Of course, this is just my personal observation, and it might vary depending on the context.
Another thing to keep in mind is that hats can be a great way to protect your skin from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat can shield your face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays. Just make sure to choose a hat with a tight weave for maximum protection.