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Life & Culture

It's a hat trick

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It used to be all about showcasing the new trends for the High Holy Days, but with Britain's erratic weather and the chance of blazing sunshine just as likely as a freezing cold day, advance planning for what outfit to wear in shul is tricky - so it makes sense to focus on our headgear.

Unlike clothes, hats need not be seasonal to be stylish and equally so, if not more, hats make a statement and earn you fashion brownie points more than any outfit could.

So, if you're reluctant to buy into the endless rows of furry coats and high-collar funnel necks that are invading the high street (and will most probably sit in your closet until October at the very earliest) concentrate on buying a hat that can be worn throughout the chagim and beyond.

Like clothes, hats move with the times. Some styles remain popular for generations. Think trilby, fedora and Panama designs while others such as the bowler and flat-cap make appearances now and again. Fascinators have regained their popularity thanks to the likes of Kate Middleton and Zara Phillips. Women are sporting small creations in both felt and straw with an array of trinkets, feathers and sparkles that turn heads. This season is no different. The fascinator gives an air of glamour unlike a fuller brimmed hat. Hair, however, needs to look extra glossy and perfectly styled to pull off this look. Plus the added bonus with a fascinator is you can actually greet your friends without air kissing!

Wider-brimmed creations are a godsend on bad hair days and rarely date. They have a timeless appeal that looks attractive on both a newly wed or a grandmother. Fussier details bring a youthful appeal while plain designs are a safer bet for an older woman.

A word of advice: if you know a style suits you, stick with it, simply jazz it up with small details that add a contemporary touch and choose a colour palette in keeping with the season's fashions. So, in the instance of autumn/winter 15, this is burgundys, reds, greys and the very sophisticated winter white.

And lastly, stand tall and wear your hat with confidence. We're all looking at you!

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