The fedora is the hat most people picture when they think classic hat — a creased crown, a snap brim, and a shape that has barely changed in a century. It suits almost everyone, but only if you get the proportions and fit right. Here is how to choose one and wear it well.
What makes a fedora a fedora
Three things: a lengthwise crease along the top of the crown, a pinch at the front, and a brim you can snap up or down. Everything else — material, brim width, colour — is where the choices happen.
Felt or straw?
Wool and fur felt fedoras are for autumn and winter: warmer, more structured, more formal. Straw fedoras are the summer version — lighter and cooler while keeping the same silhouette. Many people own one of each.
- Cooler months: a felt fedora.
- Warm months: a straw fedora.
Brim width and your face
A simple rule: match the brim to your build. Taller or larger-framed? A wider brim looks balanced. Smaller frame? A narrower brim keeps the hat from overwhelming you. If you are unsure, a medium brim of around 2.5 inches flatters most people.
Getting the fit right
Measure around your head just above the ears and eyebrows, then match that to the size on the product page. A fedora should sit level, about a finger-width above your eyebrows, and stay put without pressing. If it leaves a red mark, size up.
How to style it
- Smart-casual: a felt fedora with a jacket, or over a knit in winter.
- Formal: a neutral fedora with a suit — see our guide on wearing a hat with a suit.
- Relaxed summer: a straw fedora with linen or a plain shirt.
Keep the rest of the outfit simple. A fedora is already a statement; it does not need competition.
Looking after it
Hold a felt fedora by the brim, not the crown, to avoid misshaping it. Store it upside down on its crown or on a hat rack, and brush felt gently to lift dust. Let a damp hat air-dry naturally before you reshape it.
Find yours: browse all fedora hats at Hatloom, or explore the full hat collection.
