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8th December 2022 
A flat cap works with tailored suits, tweed jackets, casual jumpers and country outerwear. The rules: match cap tone to your outfit’s palette rather than the exact colour, sit it level on the head with the brim just above the eyebrows, and never wear it backwards.
Flat caps became much popular in Britain in the late fifteenth century. They were made of woolen fabric. The use of flat caps was promoted amongst citizens and its popularity generated revenue for the government. Today, a flat cap can be made from various raw materials and has become very fashionable among many individuals in Britain. Its various benefits and good appeal to different sexes has endeared it to many.
Flat caps are modest and affordable when compared with other head dress. With the wide range of quality materials used for flat caps; its range of colors and sizes, many individuals have a variety of options which they can choose from. These caps are loved for the comfort, protection, and warmth they provide. If you’re going for flat caps but are unsure of their differences and peculiarities, read this detailed buyer’s guide on flat caps and how to wear them!
Types of flat caps
Classic flat cap
It is usually spacious for the head in the middle and back with a short border at the front.
Gatsby
This is also known as Apple Cap or Big Apple Hat. It is wide, similar to the newsboy Cap, and has a button at its middle-top.
Duckbill
This popular style of flat cap features a rounded back and slopes down to the front peak. The cap’s panels are designed to create a close-fitting, tailored look.
Baker
It is not as accommodating to the head as the newsboy.
Cloths used to make flat caps
Tweed
It is a woolen fabric. Tweed is moisture proof and long-lasting. It can withstand rough handling as well as extreme weather conditions. It is more commonly employed in making flat caps. You could check out our Oakmoor Flat Cap
Wool
One of the oldest fibers in the world and known for its durability. It is used to produce moisture-proof flat caps which are very fashionable. You could check out the Wool 6-Panel Barney Duckbill Cap.
Cotton
It is soft, durable, and absorbent. It is readily used to make flat caps.
- Other materials like leather or linen are less commonly used in making flat caps.
How to wear flat caps
It is of great necessity to buy the right size to afford you the correct fit and to appear fashionable. This can be done by getting the correct measurement from a professional. This will help you know your size and prevent the archaic appearance that may result from an ill-fitting cap. Let’s dive in to know how to wear a flat cap!
Choose a simple colour and design for your cap
This way the cap can easily blend with your outfits and you won’t be needing to switch between different caps frequently. Also, it cuts down the cost of buying multiple new caps with different designs and colors.
A flat cap should sit moderately on your head
Your crown should be well placed in it. Usually, the bulbous part of a flat cap contains the head while the front has the part with the short border. Try it on to ensure it is comfortable for you.
Warmer climates require lighter caps
It will be helpful to choose caps made of thicker fabric in colder climates, and vice versa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sit the cap level on the head with the brim just above the eyebrows, tilted slightly down at the front. Match the cap’s tone to your outfit’s overall palette. Don’t pull the crown too far back or wear it tilted to one side unless you’re specifically going for a costume look.
Yes. A wool or tweed flat cap in a muted colour (grey, brown, olive or heather) suits a business or country-tweed suit particularly well. Avoid bold checked or bright caps with a formal suit.
Traditionally no — hats come off when you go indoors, especially at the dinner table or in someone’s home. Modern etiquette is more relaxed in casual venues (pubs, cafés), but formal indoor settings still expect the cap to come off.
Brim forward, always. The cap’s front (the peak) sits over the forehead just above the eyebrows. Wearing a flat cap backwards is a distinct fashion choice rather than the traditional look.
