Take Note: Hats on the Rise

Fabulous Floppies

Spotted on the runways: DKNY, D&G, Badgley Mischka, Bedelisi, Karl Largerfeld, Nicole Farhi, Rodarte

If you're a tad bit on the adventurous side, or really, really don't want to get any sun on your face this summer, go for an oversized floppy hat. The most functional variation on this runway look would preferably be in straw or linen in a neutral color palette. We found a variety of floppies that are sure to keep your bank account in tact, and your glam factor at a premium. We love the color contrasts in this Sunsetter Straw Hat, ($10.80, Forever 21), and the oversized brim, concealing part of the face, gives a "woman of mystery" air to the look. For something a little more monochromatic, we recommend either the Floppy Hat in Tan/ Natural, ($12.99, Target) or the Scalloped-Ribbon Floppy Hat ($14.90, HSN.com). We couldn't pass up this Simply Vera Vera Wang Linen Floppy Hat, ($17.50, Kohl's) due to its frayed edges and color selections, which gives the hat a casual, yet chic feel (read: this is NOT your Grandma's floppy hat). Lastly, we can just picture ourselves poolside in this Helen Welsh Yellow Striped Ribbon Sun Hat, ($54, Bluefly.com), or strolling in Beverly Hills in a sundress and some oversized designer sunglasses.

Boy Meets Girl

Spotted on the runways: Donna Karan, Diane von Furstenberg, Rag & Bone, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, Anna Sui, Julien Macdonald

Hats with a masculine or sporty edge, like fedoras, conductor caps, and riding hats of sorts were spotted all over, and usually were pronounced high on the top of the head, almost as if they were a size or two too small. To get the look, start out with a fedora – it'll go well with everything from a t-shirt and jeans to a trench coat on a rainy day. We like the Scaled Fedora Hat, ($10.80, Forever 21), and the Hat Attack Charcoal Wool Bow Detail Fedora ($45.99, Bluefly.com). Next, get technical in an engineer/conductor style hat, like this Xhilaration Conductor Hat in Gray ($7.99, Target) or indulge in a slightly sporty style with the Rosette Riding Cap ($10.80, Forever 21).

Oui Oui

Spotted on the Runways: Giorgio Armani, Biba, Milly, Agnés b., Phillip Lim

The beret is back in a big way, giving your outfit a slightly French flair and keeping it bent on artsy and romantic boho chic. We love seeing a soft beret with a day dress, and know that it can easily transition into fall, looking at home with chunky knit sweaters and leggings. This Kangol 11" Modelaine Shower Proof Beret ($34.95, Shoebuy.com -- search "Modelaine Beret") has a great selection of colors available, and the Artist Beret ($8.80, Forever 21) makes us want to dub ourselves "Colette" or"Marion" and take a stroll along the Seine.

Cloche Encounters

Spotted on the runways: Jenni Kayne, Biba, Badgley Mischka, Milly, Temperley

A throwback to 1920s style, the cloche hat is ever-feminine and perfect for a tailored look, which means pencil skirts, blouses, form-fitting cardigans and granny heels. The helmet-like shape of the hat sits low on the head, covering a portion of the eyes that we find simply sultry. A few fabulous versions that we found include the Croft & Barrow Solid Straw Microbrim Hat ($13.20, Kohl's), the Simply Vera Vera Wang Bucket Hat $21, also Kohl's), and our personal favorite, the Button Cloche ($10.80, Forever 21).

Don't be afraid to don a hat this spring, and remember: if you keep it simple (one to two colors) and classic, you can pull this look off without a hitch.

-- Julia DiNardo

Note: there may be a way to make the items mentioned above an even better bang for your buck -- remember to search stylenotes for special promotions and coupon codes that may be applied to your order.