Women's Exclusives

A fedora should sit level about a finger's width above your eyebrows and ears, snug enough to stay on in a breeze without leaving a red line on your forehead. If it rests on your ears or slides down, choose a smaller size.

Wear your hair down, in loose waves, or in a low ponytail or low bun so the hat sits evenly. High buns and top knots push the crown up and make it fit poorly. Setting the hat slightly back on your head keeps it from flattening your part.

Both work. Worn level, a fedora looks classic and polished, while a slight tilt to one side or forward adds a relaxed, confident feel. Keep any tilt small so the hat still feels secure and does not slip in the wind.

Keep feathers dry and store the hat where nothing presses on the trim. If a feather gets bent or ruffled, smooth it gently with your fingers from the base toward the tip. Holding it near light steam for a few seconds helps it relax back into shape.

Dark, solid colors, a smooth felt finish, a bound edge, and a simple grosgrain band read dressier. Lighter colors, raw edges, patterned straw, and bold feathers feel more casual. Choose based on whether the hat will go mostly with tailored outfits or everyday clothes.