This Winter’s Hat Trends Make the Entire Outfit

At fashion week, hats were the not-so-subtle outfit finishers that emerged as one of fall 2024’s runway stars. While many of those hats embraced a maximalist approach—think Prada’s dreamy, draped velvet caps that almost call for a cake topper or Loro Piana’s perfectly structured short pillbox—other iterations stayed closer to the practical, everyday headwear we reach for to keep warm. Like Bally's knitted beanie—a better version of the one you'd grab when Alexa chimes in with a freeze warning the moment you’re headed out the door.

Though not every runway trend needs to be translated into real life, the fashion and celeb set has officially deemed hats beyond pragmatic ball caps and beanies a great way to feel fancy and flex some personal style prowess. These styles are more than insulation, from retro berets and vintage Jackie O.-inspired pillboxes to Jennifer Lopez’s Mary Tyler Moore-inspired wide-brim bucket hats.

While experienced craftswomen and milliners like Gigi Burris have long understood the shape-shifting powers of a great hat, the broader fashion world is now catching on to hats as the ultimate transformative accessory. A hat is a statement that can lean into a persona or add polish or whimsy. Alternatively, it sends a message without saying anything explicitly. Hats are no longer the things you begrudgingly put on only to take off inside—a simple little hat trend has the potential to be your entire personality—for the day at least.

Beanies underscore the idea that warmth and style aren’t mutually exclusive. This season, The Row turned the understated staple into a statement accessory with silver hardware accents. Meanwhile, Bottega Veneta's approach was about function, making it perfect for everyday wear. Coach embraced playfulness with slightly oversized beanies adorned with decorative pins reminiscent of bag charms, bringing a bit of whimsy to the cozy classic.

Baseball caps have become a low-key status symbol for several seasons now. The fashion set is leaning into caps that not only top off a look but signal something about personal style—whether through an investment piece or a favorite local merch find. Simple logos and neutral tones can add a hint of sporty nonchalance to any outfit, while some designers take it further, crafting caps in luxe materials with discreet but unmistakable quiet luxury branding. Others channel playfulness, perfect for adding a pop of color to winter looks.

Vintage-inspired hats are infusing a touch of old-world glamour to the season, with designers reimagining the hats of the Jackie O. sartorial era for today. At Altuzarra and Alaïa, pillbox hats wooed with sleek, structured shapes. Valentino embraced ladylike silk headpieces adorned with brooches. Loro Piana took a classic approach with immaculately crafted pillbox hats that blend luxurious materials with nostalgia-inspired silhouettes. These statement pieces keep you warm and pay homage to fashion’s most iconic eras.

Hats are undergoing a fashion revival, becoming as luxe a statement and investment as a designer bag. This season, we're seeing everything from plush velvet newsboy caps at Prada to sleek leather and refined tartan styles at Hermès and Dior. These elevated hat designs appeal to a broad audience beyond their traditional roots. Like outerwear, a well-crafted hat in luxe fabrics and textures can transform an entire look

Classic bucket hats—in the vein of Prada's cool Re-nylon version—had a big moment several seasons ago across pop culture and amongst the celeb set. While the style has stayed relevant and useful—especially when worn as a rain hat—recent designs feature sleek, structured wools, a variety of brim widths, and soft details such as swinging tassels and intricate piping.