You don't have to play bass in a jazz band or be kin to Al Capone to wear a fedora, the classic men’s chapeau that has the power to make anyone from K-Fed to Brandon Davis look classy. The fedora can transform an otherwise generic-looking guy (paging Justin Timberlake) or add extra hotness to any girl's outfit (à la the Olsen twins, Sienna Miller and Agyness Deyn). Indeed, women have donned the fedora since its early days of its existence, perhaps because the very name derives from Princess Fedora Romazova, the title character of Victorien Sardou’s play—wait for it—“Fedora.”
Once ubiquitous among jazzmen, the jaunty cap found its way to heads of leading ladies and ingénues. Remember Rosalind Russell’s capricious cap in “His Girl Friday”? What about Ingrid Bergman's low-slung version in "Casablanca"? More recently, the fedora has been associated with those in the hardcore music scene, where it's worn as an accessory to heavy tattoos, per Rancid’s Tim Armstrong. It's also popular among young Hollywood starlets, such as Kirsten Dunst, Samantha Ronson, Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie. Looking like you belong in the pages of US Weekly has never been this chic. Here's a rundown on our favorite fedos:
Porkpie: You may remember this style of headwear as the one worn by Johnny Depp's character in "Benny and Joon." This flat-topped variation—once a jazz scene staple and a former mainstay of every Englishman’s wardrobe—is making a big comeback, thanks in large part to musician Pete Doherty. To get his look, team your hat with a basic white T-shirt, skinny jeans and a narcotics addition. If you're a skater, let your hair go shaggy and wear it with cargo shorts, Vans and an herbal cigarette hanging from your lip.
Trilby: Arguably the hottest of all fedora types, as demonstrated by style vixens Mischa Barton and Lindsay Lohan. "Trilby" is the term more commonly used by the Brits to describe the fedora. The distinction? Trilbies have a narrower brim and are more upturned in the back.
Panama hats: Also known as the "plantation hat," this straw variation is associated with summer sun, beachside villas and tropical margaritas. Couple this Tommy Bahama staple with light linens and summer dresses—it’s a must-have accessory this season.
Get the look: Try Fedora Primo in Santa Monica, MediaNoche in Echo Park, or Jake Vintage in Los Feliz. Goorin Brothers, Ariane and Hollywood Hatters—all on Melrose Avenue—are also top shops for top shopping. And don't forget to check out Urban Outfitters and Santee Alley, which always have affordable selections.
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