The Sunday Mail
WHILE most people believe that a hat’s sole purpose is to protect one from the blazing sun’s rays, fashionistas will tell you that a hat’s main purpose is to accessorise an outfit.
And there is absolutely no need for a hat to be always practical.
At weddings and during church services, some women wear hats of various shapes and sizes. Even if the church service is conducted under a marquee or indoors, the hats are kept on, blocking the view of other congregants. Forgive those ladies, they only do that in the name of fashion.
Hats are more of an accessory than a functional piece of clothing.
Hats are an accessory that adds to the wow factor on an ensemble. Some Zimbabwean women get this concept but some are now overdoing the trend and taking the glam away in the process.
This season, men have adopted the Panama hat while the ladies have adopted the wide brimmed hats.
In order to avoid overdoing this hot trend, Style Corner is going to suggest some tips to add that extra pizazz to your style.
The headwrap
Africans have taken the headwrap to the high fashion runways. By wearing a headwrap, you get to highlight your face and of course, cover up a bad hair day. This is definitely the way to portray that African Queen vibe.
The Nigerian headwrap style is called a gele and these go well with Nigerian inspired couture garments.
The fedora
Popular from the 1900s era, this shape has taken over the 21st century style. Pinched at the top, the hat has a simple and versatile edge to it. It can be worn with both formal and casual outfits.
Wide brimmed hats
Now these are the favourite for the women at weddings and church services. They are good at providing the much needed shade in the sun. One needs to be careful in storing these hats so as not to distort the shape of the hat. Floppy versions and solid versions have the same effect, whether worn to cover your hair or accentuate it, wide brimmed hats are just fabulous.
The cap
Caps are never out of style. The right shape is key with baseball cap shapes being more “sporty” while the flat base gives an edgy “hip-hop” look.
Caps can be in leather, African print, solid colour or have a favourite team on the design. They give a flattering look, especially for those blessed with a long forehead like me, caps do a good job on covering them.
The fascinator
Fascinators are the various versions of small hats worn for special occasions like high teas and weddings. This lightweight head adornment can be used instead of a hat for decorative purposes.
The straw-hat
In Zimbabwe, there are various natural materials and artisans who make some beautiful hats out of grass. Given this, the straw hat is definitely a must have. The straw hat is breathable. However, one has to be cautious on the quality of manufacturing. Usually, such hats are lined with satin to prevent hair damage.
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