If you’re looking for something to keep your head warm during colder months but also want to make a style statement that’s not too casual, pick up a beret instead of a beanie.

We get that it can be challenging though. Have you ever felt like you were wearing a costume when you put on a beret? You're not alone. Despite it being super chic, wearing it does feel like tip-toeing between a French lady who doesn’t care what the world says and an unsure Australian who’s suddenly self-conscious because of a hat.

The good news is this conundrum can be solved by a simple thing: styling. With a few tweaks and some pairings, you’ll find yourself feeling like Francoise Hardy or Brigitte Bardot. 

Berets in history and politics

First, a quick preview of the origins of the beret. Did you know? The Dutch artist Rembrandt is believed to be the first person to wear the modern iteration of the beret; you’ll see the hat in many of his self-portraits. But there have been many versions of it since 3200 BC. 

It gained popularity in France in the 17th century as a staple for farmers and artists.

Fun fact: The word beret, coined in 1825, comes from the Latin word “birretum” which describes the flat cap worn by the working class at the time.

The beret has also been used as political statements. Think: Che Guevarra and the Black Panthers. 

Berets in fashion

The hat started to be seen as fashionable, not just utilitarian, in the 20th century. This is in part thanks to the fashion icon Coco Chanel, who wore hers with a brooch. Artists like Edith Piaf also made the hat a part of her wardrobe, and so did movie stars Audrey Hepburn and Lauren Bacall.

In more recent years, you’ll have noticed the style being worn by pop stars like Beyoncea nd Rihanna and supermodels like Bella Hadid.

Despite its popularity, the hat is still sometimes considered a French stereotype. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try adding it to your looks though. It’s still the easiest way to add chicness to your autumn or winter outfit. 

Is there a wrong way to wear a beret?

And there is no wrong way to wear a beret. However, there are ways to wear it so that you’ll feel more comfortable and confident.

Beret styling tips 

First, find the right beret size or style for you: small and structured or larger and loose. 

The good news is both styles work perfectly with any type of hair style and length — whether you have short hair, long hair, curly hair, a pixie — yes, anything. Those who rock a fringe may find it a bit more challenging to style but nothing a little swiping of the hair to the side can’t fix.

Curious to know if the style suits your face shape? Loose berets tend to look better for long and angular shapes, while small and structured berets are great for those with round face shapes. But these aren’t hard rules, of course! The best way to find the perfect match for you is to try one on.

How to wear a beret

Find out the perfect styling for you by trying these placements:

Flat

Place it flatly on top of your head and keep the placement straight, letting the fabric sit snugly atop your noggin’. 

Slanted to one side

The most typical way to wear a beret, angle one of its sides to the left or right and let the hat sit steadily for an artsy look.

Slouched

Wearing a loose, slouchy beret? Wear it like a beanie — but with more finesse. Let much of the brim sit at the back of your head. This gives off a boho vibe.

To avoid looking like you’re cosplaying Emily in Paris, wear your beret with pieces you wouldn’t typically think to wear it with. Ditch the little black dresses and the Parisienne uniform of capri pants and a white shirt, and opt for baggy jeans and a slouchy tee. 

The most important tip to think of when styling a beret, of course, is to make sure it feels like you! Sure, it can exude a bit of a French vibe, but that je ne se quois? Baby, that’s all you.