Even before Catherine Middleton's betrothal to Prince William, style watchers began buzzing about the “Kate effect” on trends.
If she wears it, young fashionistas want it. Crisp trench coats. Perky plaid mini-skirts. Posh riding boots. And, of course, the stunning blue Issa dress (an instant sellout, despite its $600-plus pricetag).
That's not all. The stylish Miss Middleton might just bring back the hat as a wardrobe essential — in a way that hasn't been seen since Queen Elizabeth was a bride in the 1940s. Back then, even young American women of modest means had a selection of chic toppers.
Yes, there was a minor resurgence during the all-too-brief fashion reign of the late Princess Diana (William's mother). But, really, Di's rather costume-y hats were more admired by older ladies than copied by a new generation.
What's so different about Kate's chapeaus? Attitude.
There's nothing fussy or matronly about her hats. And young style watchers around the world are taking note.
When she wears a classic wide-brimmed straw, she doesn't just plop it onto her head. She tilts it at a saucy angle that, rather than hiding her pretty face, sets it off with striking perfection.
When she wants just a bit of color, she wears a minimalist “fascinator” adorned with a few feathers or curled ribbons — the perfect little look for a night out in a trendy club and a likely adornment for many of her post-wedding events. (She already has commissioned bridal-party hats by Irish milliner Philip Treacy, whose clients include Sarah Jessica Parker and Lady Gaga.
Of course, when the princess-to-be actually walks down the aisle April 29, tradition dictates that she'll wear a jewel-encrusted tiara from the royal family's collection.
We're betting that she'll soon ditch the heavy jewels (Diana famously said that they gave her a headache) and put on her most festive new hat.
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KATE'S LOOK
Though vintage hats from the 1930s through the 1950s are readily available, Kate's best looks often have a more modern vibe. Staff writer Jan DeKnock trolls the web for you and finds similar styles at a variety of price points.
www.hatsinthebellfry.com
This East Coast site (with shops in Philadelphia and three Maryland suburbs) offers a good selection of fashion hats, including wide-brimmed straws. Many are priced at $300 and higher. Fascinator-style headbands and clips start at about $38.
www.hatagories.com
This is the online location of My Fair Lady, a New Jersey shop that specializes in the big, beautiful, brimmed hats that are a tradition at the Kentucky Derby, as well as some fascinators.
www.delmarhat.com
It's no coincidence that this California site is based in Del Mar, near a Thoroughbred racetrack where the wearing of gorgeous hats during the summer season has been a big deal since the 1930s.
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