Cowboy hats are undoubtedly the most recognizable cowboy culture and Western clothing symbol. Though they were created to protect cowboys from the weather elements, the oddly shaped chapeau has evolved into a fashion statement. However, before determining how to wear a cowboy hat, you need to consider certain factors while selecting the appropriate one. In this article, we’ll try to point out the major criteria to follow when you do the purchase.
Facial and body features
When searching for cowboy hats, there are various aspects to consider. Your facial structure is one such thing. Another factor is the height of your brow and the position of your ears. These factors come in handy when determining the crown height. Another element is the width of your eyes. The width of your shoulders matters too. The cowboy hat should be proportionate to your stature, which includes your height, weight, and even your sense of style.
You’re probably wondering which cowboy hat style will look best on your face. Fortunately, cowboy hats exist in different styles, ensuring that you can choose the ideal hat. Usually, four primary facial forms exist –
- Diamond shape
- Heart shape
- Square shape
- Oval shape
Diamond-shaped individuals have larger cheekbones and should look for a hat that elongates their sharp features. A smaller brim will help to emphasize the width of your face in the center. Individuals having heart-shaped faces should attempt to balance their broader foreheads by wearing a hat with a narrower brim. Doing so will improve the appearance of your cheekbones. Those with square faces should consider a rounded hat to lessen the angle of their jawline. It can be accomplished by relaxing the form of the hat in front so that it does not curl sharply but rather slowly curves without forming a sharp crease. Individuals with long faces should look for hats with a medium or lower crown to keep the hat from resting on their foreheads. You are rather fortunate if you have an oval-shaped face. Any style will look well on you. But if you’re seeking guidance, we would like you to opt for a hat with a high crown and a full-sized brim.
The cost and the quality
Price and quality are often related since you usually get what you pay for. Various cowboy hat styles come at various prices. It depends on the demand too. However, if you’re looking for something to wear to a fancy-dress party or on rare days, you may pick one on the lower end of the price scale.
But if you’re looking for something sturdy and of great quality, you may have to pay a bit extra. Another factor that contributes to the quality and cost of a cowboy hat is its material.
Material
Cowboy hats are frequently made with straw (excellent for summer use) or felt (a better alternative for winter), both of which are pretty affordable. Leathers and other waterproof fabrics are more durable and have higher quality. Thus, they are more expensive too.
Purpose
Choosing the appropriate hat style is vital. However, you must also see to it that your hat serves a purpose. Is fun style your personal choice? Choose a stylish hat with a splash of color and a plain or decorative band that complements your individuality. Are you a field worker or a trail rider? Select a hat with a brim that suits your face shape, but make sure it is made of a UV-protective material. They also have the advantage of being easy to clean with a moist cloth or a dab of window cleaner on a piece of fabric. Alternatively, choose a palm straw western hat that wicks away moisture helping you to remain cool and comfortable. Is it something you desire to wear only a few evenings a year? Then avoid investing in high-quality hats, as you will be wearing them less frequently.
Fit
After wearing a hat for a long duration, you may see a reddish mark on your forehead. It indicates that the hat is too small for you. While you may prefer snug-fitting headgear, you can always go for a larger size because you have the option to add foam strips to make the hat fit properly on your head. Another benefit of wearing a hat one size larger is that it will enable you to use it even if it shrinks slightly after repeated uses owing to humidity and sweat.
Special features
You also get to decorate your hat with accessories like different hatbands, ribbons, feathers, conches, buckles, bands made of braided horse hairs, brooches, and anything that you fancy. It will give your hat a unique look. While making the purchase, you can ask your hat maker to include one of these accessories that will depict your sticking sense of style.
Conclusion
Whichever style you ultimately choose for yourself, sporting a cowboy hat with the proper attitude is an entirely new experience.