Style Guide: How to Wear a Cloche Hat

Thanks to the growing popularity of 1920s-inspired fashion and period dramas, cloche hats are making a stylish comeback. Their vintage charm instantly captures attention, but one question often follows:

Originally designed as an everyday fashion staple, cloche hats remain surprisingly versatile today. Whether you're heading to a picnic, attending a garden party, strolling through town, or even making a quick grocery run, a cloche hat can effortlessly elevate your outfit with timeless elegance.

Let’s explore the basics of cloche hats and how to style them confidently.

Cloche Hats 101

The word cloche comes from the French word for “bell,” which perfectly describes the hat’s signature shape. Unlike fedoras or wide-brim hats, cloches feature a rounded crown that sits lower and closer to the head.

Because of this close fit, the hat may feel snug at first, but many people love the cozy coverage it provides—especially during colder months. Some styles even help shield the ears from chilly winds without the tightness of knit beanies.

What about sizing? Well, this is where it can get a bit tricky. Due to the fact that most of our cloches are made on vintage blocks, they will predominantly come as a OSFM, or One Size Fits Most. For ladies, that means the hats will fit at about a Medium, or a 7. If you're unsure about your size, check out our Size Guide to help you out. 

Understanding Cloche Hat Sizing

Sizing can sometimes be tricky because many cloche hats are crafted using vintage hat blocks. As a result, they’re often labeled OSFM (One Size Fits Most).

In general, this sizing fits similarly to a women’s medium, around a size 7. If you’re uncertain about your fit, checking a hat size guide can help you find the most comfortable option. A perfect example of this range in material between the seasons is the Belfry Gioia and the Belfry Dafne. Same shape, just seasonally appropriate materials for their respective seasons!

Seasonal Cloche Hat Materials

Like most hats, cloche styles change with the seasons.

• Fall & Winter: Felted wool and fur blends provide warmth and a sophisticated vintage look.
• Spring & Summer: Lightweight materials such as straw, cotton, and linen offer breathability and comfort.

Many cloche designs keep the same silhouette year-round while simply adapting the fabric to suit the season.

Decorative details like ribbons, flowers, bows, or trim can also make certain cloches feel more formal or dressy. If you prefer a simpler design, you can always personalize your hat with pins or accessories.

Symmetrical vs. Asymmetrical Brims

Choosing the right brim style can completely change the look and feel of your cloche hat.

Symmetrical Brims

These styles frame the face evenly and create a soft, romantic vintage appearance. They also offer more coverage during cooler weather.

Asymmetrical Brims

These brims create a more open, playful look while still flattering the face. They’re especially comfortable for people who wear glasses or sunglasses and tend to suit a wide variety of face shapes. Check out our Belfry Ginny for a prime example of how these brims work.  

How to Wear a Cloche Hat with Different Hairstyles

One of the best things about cloche hats is their flexibility. Because of their shape, they can be worn slightly tilted forward for a dramatic vintage look or pushed back a bit to reveal more of the face.

Short Hair

Short hairstyles pair beautifully with cloche hats. If you have bangs or a pixie cut, wearing the hat slightly farther back helps showcase your hairstyle while maintaining balance.

Classic bob cuts are especially iconic with cloche hats, echoing authentic 1920s fashion.

Long Hair

Longer hairstyles work just as well. You can tie your hair into a low ponytail, braid, or bun to highlight the hat itself, or leave it loose for a softer, romantic style.

Want the appearance of a vintage bob without cutting your hair? Try pinning your hair up underneath the hat for a faux bob effect inspired by the 1920s.

Experimenting with positioning and hairstyles will help you discover the look that feels most natural and stylish for you.

What Outfits Pair Well with Cloche Hats?

The beauty of the cloche hat is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with:

• Everyday dresses
• Belted coats
• Sweaters and jeans
• Blouses and skirts
• Vintage-inspired outfits
• Casual chic looks

A cloche hat adds elegance and personality to almost any outfit. Think of it like jewelry—it’s the finishing touch that brings everything together.

The key is confidence. Once you embrace the hat as part of your personal style, the rest of the outfit naturally falls into place.