Parisian Inspired Look: Wide Brim Hat
I can’t be the only one that binge-watched Emily in Paris this past month. Please confess that you’re just as guilty as me… and that you also wished that you were galavanting across the city of love while eating croissants. Instead, I’m cooped up in my apartment avoiding travel at all costs because of a pandemic. #thisis2020
While I wasn’t crazy about the show’s plot (although, yes, I did finish the season within 72 hours, thank you very much), I loved that the show brought up nostalgic memories of my own adventures to Paris.
I’ve been to Paris three times in my lifetime — twice in the last three years. That’s how much I love the city. The food, architecture, culture… I can never seem to get enough. Plus, there’s the FASHION.
And while I wouldn’t be caught dead in most of Emily’s bold, colorful outfits (we all know neutrals are the way to my heart), I began to reminisce about my favorite outfits from my own European travels.
Today, I want to share one piece that can seamlessly incorporate some Parisian flare into your wardrobe — a black wide brim felt hat. With this look, I can guarantee that you’ll be ready to enjoy a scenic stroll by the Seine with a baguette and a bottle of red wine.
I bought my very own hat IN Paris. Maybe that’s why it reminds me so much of my experiences abroad. Although not a Paris original, this one from Nordstrom Rack is a very similar option.
Nonetheless, this hat is special; it’s understated, yet eye-catching. I can confidently say you’ll make some heads turn. For that reason, it’s not a piece you can break out every day, or even frequently for that matter. And, most importantly, it needs to be paired with the right outfit or you might as well find yourself as embarrassed as when Emily was called “ringarde” by a renowned fashion designer — every girl’s worst fear according to the French.
So, when you do feel brave enough to flaunt this iconic classic hat, here are a few tips to help you simultaneously blend in and stand out.
My number one recommendation is to wear this hat with an all-black outfit from head to toe. You may be wondering why all black, and I will tell you that you are already going to be noticed just by wearing this hat. The last thing you want is to overdo it by wearing too many statement pieces in one outfit. Although many of my pieces pictured are no longer available, if you want to achieve a similar look to mine, here are a few suggestions:
Black sweater jacket — exact piece I’m wearing!
Ripped black jeans — I believe these are the same pair I own
Black and white blouse — my top is from Forever 21 and at least five years old, but this top is a close second
Open heel black mules — a very similar shoe minus the gold heel
I know I just said that I recommend wearing all black, HOWEVER, a nice contrast to tie your full look together is a bold coat.
Wrap coats with wide collars, in particular, are especially charming and have a sophisticated, European appeal. I always feel like Meghan Markle when I wear mine. Unfortunately, mine is from last season and is no longer available (it’s from Ann Taylor). But I found a few similar options. And, I should mention, your coat doesn’t need to be a bright color like mine; completing this look with a black, neutral or gray coat would also look lovely.
Dare to try this look for yourself? I hope the answer is yes! Tell me about other ways you’d like to style this hat below.
