Caps are an essential part of every man’s wardrobe, but it is something that many of them get wrong. A bad cap can ruin a fine outfit if it is the wrong style or fit, so make sure you run through this guide to keep on top of your man’s look. Let’s take a look at some of your options.
My hubby wearing his cowboy hat in Santa Fe.
My hubby enjoys wearing many different styles of hats and caps. In the photo above, he is wearing one of his favorite styles, a cowboy hat. Whatever style of cap that you decide for the man in your life, you want to make it a style that he enjoys wearing and that it looks good on him. If he doesn’t like the style, it doesn’t matter how good the cap looks, he won’t enjoy it.
Snapback
The snapback cap is an American classic. It’s a slang term for the baseball cap, which are a huge seller all over the world. They are cheaper than more traditional caps and have seen a resurgence with modern youth in recent years. They are made by a huge range of manufacturers. Clothing labels such as Carhartt, Nike and Vans are popular brands, and there are also specialists cap makers like New Era. You can get custom New Era hats made for your man or go with the popular designs that include baseball team logos. The key to wearing a good baseball cap is to break it in. It takes a little while before it takes on the shape of the head – a combination of heat and moisture will gradually make it happen over time.
The Flat Cap
Flat caps are very adaptable and can be worn with a wide range of outfits, from suits and dress shirts to casual. It has its origins as a working man’s hat and when made of thick wool or tweed, is often identified as countryside style. However, corduroy, felt or linen versions work well in warmer climates and can be worn anywhere, including the city. Make sure you buy the correct size for your man’s head. It doesn’t just have to fit right, it has to look right, too. Large peaks are better for big heads, for example, but can overwhelm a smaller face.
The Newsboy
The newsboy cap is also referred to as the driver’s cap or a Gatsby. It is a more casual cap then the flat cap, and can be worn with a wide range of outfits, including a good suit. A simple pair of jeans and t-shirt can be jazzed up amazingly with a newsboy. Throw on a light scarf as well, and it is a simple and effective way of turning a plain outfit into something more dapper entirely. Again, your guy’s head size and shape will have a big effect on whether they can pull of a newsboy. It can have a mushroom effect on people with thin facial structures, or emphasize a big skull. Bring someone with you when trying it on and make sure you get a second – and third – opinion before buying a newsboy for your man.
JT with my hubby wearing his newsboy’s cap while at Fishermen’s Wharf in San Francisco.
The Military Cap
Military caps are based on the designs used by the military forces. They are very popular, but should be worn with more casual clothes. It is inadvisable to wear one alongside camouflage or military-inspired clothing unless somebody wants the full-on look. Military caps are adaptable, and will look good on the majority of heads. They are a great option for when people don’t have time to spend searching for an outfit, or need some sun protection while they go out on a run or a walk with the dog. However, they should be avoided for any formal occasions.
I hope this article can give some great ideas for buying a new hat for the man in your life. The key to all of it is getting the fit right. And don’t forget that every cap will look better as it starts to take the shape of the head.
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