I’m sure you’ve noticed this trend. The beret is perhaps the most noticeable and prolific cold weather accessory this year. Many celebrities are attempting the trend, wearing berets in a variety of colors and fabrics. The beret was also seen in many designers’ Fall 2008 collections.
So, where did the trend come from? Berets have long been associated with the French. It was, in fact, the official hat of France for many years and was banned during the Nazi occupation of France during World War II because it was associated with French nationalism. The beret has also been associated with poets and artists such as Picasso. And, of course, the beret is a component of many military uniforms around the world. But, why is it popular now? Mary Kate started wearing berets a couple of years ago. So, perhaps that’s the reason it started becoming a bit more mainstream. But, really, the tipping point was the Fall 2008 fashion shows.
Keep reading for runway and celebrity inspiration, how to wear a beret and affordable finds at various price points.

Runway Inspiration

These berets are of the traditional wool variety. What we can tell from these pictures is the importance of framing the face when wearing a beret. Notice how the Donna Karan model’s is tilted slightly to the side to help frame the face. The Vera Wang model’s side braid works to make up for the centered beret. All of these berets match the outfits worn by the models. When we look at celebrity berets, we’ll see them used as more of an eye-catching accessory.
Shown: Hermes, Donna Karan, Vera Wang

Celebrity Inspiration

Notice how Mary Kate and Fergie both wear their knit beret on the back of their heads. This is the most popular way to wear the beret. Rihanna wears hers a bit more functionally (though that wasn’t her intent) with it covering more of her head. In each of these examples, the beret is a major focal point of the outfit.
Shown: Mary Kate, Fergie, Rihanna

How to Wear a Beret

Until recently, I never really liked berets. I always thought they looked a bit pretentious and a lot goofy. I realized, though, that what I didn’t like was the way they were being worn. There is definitely a right way and a wrong way to wear a beret.
1. Frame your face
Do NOT pull your hair back into your beret. You’ll look completely goofy! Frame your face by leaving your hair down and placing the beret an inch or so past your hairline. If you want to cover your head more, make sure you have some bangs or a few strands around your face pulled out.
2. Wear it slouchy
Don’t pull the beret tightly over your head. If you want to wear the hat like that, just wear a knit cap instead. Leave the beret slouchy and loose. Tilt it back on your head or slightly to the side and let gravity do the rest.
3. Start with a knit beret
Haven’t worn a beret before? Aren’t sure if the look’s right for you? Try a knit beret first. Knit berets (like Mary Kate’s and Fergie’s) are less stiff and are more likely to lay the way you expect.

Stylish Finds

Berets Under $20

Shown: Brynn Chunky Knit Beret ($14.50), Angelina Crochet Beanie ($14.50), Cable Knit Beret ($10.99), Metallic Knit Beret ($8.99), Sequin Beret ($12.99)

A little bit more…

Shown: Chunky Knit Beret ($29.50), Knit Beret ($29.50), Wool Beret ($28.00), Starlite Knit Beret ($28.90)