The Betty Beret with a Twist

What an exciting hat to finally complete!

I acquired a collection of vintage hats from a young woman whose grandmother was quite a hat connoisseur. Amongst her collection was a black velour beret that had a unique style. It was wired to hold its shape, and rest on the head like a standard beret but had the look of a fascinator. It didn’t require combs or elastic to stay put—but a gush of wind could still blow it off the head.

With its unique front groove, the beret looked almost like a newsboy cap. Even more reason to love it. I decided to wear it to London Hat Week this year, and if I still loved it after a few days, I would hand it over to my block maker in London to replicate.

I am happy to report that it was a success! My new replicated hat block arrived early Summer, and it is the Best of Show for this new Fall season, and many more seasons to come. My first block is The Betty in purple wool felt. An elevated look trimmed with matching veiling and a contrasting wine-colored cockade on the left side. The purple Betty did not need much—pure classic styling.

I just completed a second one in chartreuse, which by the way, is a hot color for Fall. But we all know it’s going to remain that classic that some women will love and others will hate. But I have grown to love chartreuse more with each resurrection. (Maybe it’s my age catching up with me.) The chartreuse Betty will have the same shape but a different sporty look. I hope to have the new hat color added to my collection next week, and yes, of course it’s customizable.

I will be dreaming up new ways to shape this beret, maybe creating a tighter groove so it will look shorter at the base. I think there’s a couple more possibilities in the works as I get more accustomed to this block. Stay tuned my Pretties, and wear your hats high and proud!