How to Wear a Beret: Military Style Tips
When it comes to wearing a beret, you might think of French artists or military personnel, but this versatile hat can suit a variety of styles. Finding the perfect balance between casual and sophisticated, the beret adds a unique touch to any outfit. Whether you’re aiming for a classic look or something more modern, a beret can be an easy and stylish addition to your wardrobe.
You don’t need to be a fashion expert to pull off a beret.
From pairing it with a simple dress to matching it with an oversized sweater, this accessory can complement many different outfits.
Knowing how to adjust and style it is key to making it work for you.
So if you’ve been wondering how to incorporate a beret into your daily looks, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks here.
Discover how to match this iconic hat with your hairstyle and makeup, and learn from timeless fashion icons who have perfected the art of wearing a beret.
Key Takeaways
- Berets can add sophistication to any outfit.
- Style your beret with different hairstyles and minimal makeup.
- Learn from fashion icons to make the beret work for you.
The History and Significance of Berets
The beret has a unique and varied history.
It dates back to the 15th century when it was worn by shepherds and laborers in the Basque region of France and Spain.
Its simple design and affordability made it popular among those working outdoors.
In the 20th century, the beret became a symbol of military strength.
It was adopted by various armies around the world, including the French and British.
Today, military berets continue to signify different units and ranks.
Artists like Rembrandt and Picasso made the beret a symbol of creativity, often seen wearing it in their self-portraits.
This connection to the art world helped the beret gain a chic image.
Coco Chanel, the famous fashion designer, also played a role in popularizing the beret.
Her influence turned it into a stylish accessory for the everyday wardrobe.
The beret became a political statement during the civil rights movement in the 1960s.
The Black Panthers wore black berets as a mark of their identity and resistance, making it a powerful symbol of activism.
In popular culture, the beret is often associated with the French and their perceived sophistication.
This cliché of the “artsy French person” wearing a beret, smoking a cigarette, and sipping coffee has stuck around, though it doesn’t reflect the beret’s true origins.
The beret’s journey from practical headgear to a symbol of style and power shows its lasting influence.
Whether worn by soldiers, artists, activists, or fashion icons, it remains a versatile and meaningful accessory.
Identifying Different Types of Berets
Berets come in various materials and styles, each offering a unique look and feel.
These variations include wool, leather, designer labels, and vibrant patterns.
Wool and Knit Berets
Wool berets are classic and often associated with traditional military uniforms.
They are soft, breathable, and warm, making them ideal for colder weather.
A knit beret adds a cozy, handmade touch to your outfit.
These berets are versatile and can be found in both men’s and women’s fashion.
You might also see wool berets in various shapes and sizes.
From the flat, round style to those with a bit more structure, there’s a wool or knit beret to match any uniform or casual look.
Leather and Faux Leather Berets
For a more modern and edgy style, leather and faux leather berets are a great choice.
These berets offer a sleek and polished appearance, perfect for making a bold statement.
Leather berets, such as those from design houses like Ruslan Baginskiy, offer durability and a high-fashion edge.
Faux leather options provide the same look but are often more affordable and animal-friendly.
Pairing these with military-inspired outfits can add a stylish twist to the traditional look.
Designer Berets
Designer berets bring a touch of luxury to this timeless accessory.
Brands like Eugenia Kim and Ruslan Baginskiy offer logo-embroidered berets that blend classic style with contemporary flair.
These high-end berets can be made from various materials, including velvet, leather, and intricately woven fabrics.
They often feature unique details like embroidery, embellishments, or special trims, making them standout pieces in any wardrobe.
Wearing a designer beret can elevate simple military attire into a fashionable statement.
Colorful and Patterned Berets
Berets don’t have to be limited to neutral tones.
Colorful and patterned berets add fun and personality to your look.
From bright reds and yellows to intricate patterns and prints, these berets can be a playful addition to your ensemble.
Patterned berets with camouflage prints, for example, can nod to military style while still being fashion-forward.
Other patterns might include stripes, polka dots, or florals, offering endless options to express your individuality.
Mixing vibrant berets with your military-inspired wardrobe can bring a fresh and modern twist to traditional looks.
How to Choose the Right Beret for Your Outfit
Choosing the right beret can add a stylish touch to your outfit.
You should consider the color and print that match your style, as well as how it complements your wardrobe.
Considering Color and Print
When choosing a beret, think about the colors that suit your style.
Neutral shades like black, gray, and navy are versatile and can match almost anything in your wardrobe.
If you enjoy making bold fashion statements, go for vibrant colors or patterns.
Prints can also play a big role.
Camouflage prints, for example, might suit military outfits well.
A solid color beret can bring cohesion to more professional or casual looks.
Remember, you want the beret to complement, not clash with, what you’re wearing.
Matching Berets with Your Wardrobe
Think about how the beret will fit into your wardrobe.
For a casual style, pair a classic black beret with jeans and a tee.
If you’re wearing a more formal outfit, like a blazer or dress, a beret in a contrasting or matching color can add a sophisticated touch.
Military-inspired looks can also be enhanced with berets.
For a rugged style, try a beret with an army jacket and combat boots.
Balancing your outfit with the right beret can pull everything together and make your style stand out.
Styling Berets with Different Hairstyles
Wearing a beret can be a stylish choice for various hairstyles, from short pixie cuts to long flowing locks.
Using techniques like bobby pins can help keep your beret in place and make it look great.
Short Hair and Pixie Cuts
For short hair or pixie cuts, a beret can add a chic touch.
Place the beret a little off-center to give it a cool, effortless look.
Use bobby pins to secure it in place, especially if your hair is really short.
You can also tuck a bit of the beret under to make it snug.
This helps it stay put while adding a bit of volume to your style.
This look is especially practical for military women who need to maintain a neat appearance but want a bit of flair.
Long Hair and Updos
When wearing a beret with long hair, you have more options.
Let your hair flow freely or gather it into a low bun.
Placing the beret at an angle can create a sophisticated look.
Secure the beret with a few bobby pins around the edges to keep it from slipping.
For a sleek, military-style look, tuck your hair inside the beret.
This not only keeps your hair in place but also gives a sharp, clean appearance.
Experiment with different placements and angles to find what suits you best.
Styling Tips for Curly Hair
Curly hair and berets can be a fantastic combination.
The natural volume of curly hair can add an interesting contrast to the sleekness of the beret.
Place the beret slightly to one side to frame your face.
Tame any frizz or flyaways with a bit of styling product before placing the beret.
Use bobby pins to secure the beret behind your curls, ensuring that it stays in place while you move.
For military settings, maintaining neatness is key, so make sure your curls are well-managed and presentable.
By following these tips, you can style your beret with confidence, no matter your hair type or length.
Incorporating Berets into Casual Looks
Adding a beret to your casual outfit can bring a unique flair and touch of fashion.
Whether you’re dressing down or going for a chic, laid-back vibe, the beret can elevate your look effortlessly.
Pairing with Jeans and Tee
Pairing a beret with jeans and a tee is a classic casual combination.
Choose blue jeans and a comfy tee for that effortless look.
A navy beret can complement the casual feel and add European charm.
Think about military-inspired shades like olive or khaki to add a bit of edge.
Your beret can be worn straight on or slightly tilted for a relaxed look.
Pair with sneakers or loafers, and you’ve got a stylish but laid-back ensemble perfect for any day.
Sporting Berets with Leggings and Boots
Leggings and boots offer a comfy yet trendy look.
A beret fits perfectly with this attire.
Opt for black leggings and ankle boots for a sleek style.
You can pair them with an oversized sweater to stay cozy.
A military-green beret can add some character, connecting with the utilitarian feel of this look.
Combat boots or even classic brown boots work well here.
This outfit is perfect for a casual day out or a relaxed evening with friends.
Bohemian Vibes and Ruffles
A beret can also complement a bohemian look.
Think flowing fabrics and ruffles.
Choose a ruffled blouse or a boho dress with earthy tones.
A tan or cream beret would tie the outfit together beautifully.
For a quirky twist, add some military-style accessories, like a belt or jacket, blending soft ruffles with structured pieces.
Finish with sandals or ankle boots.
This combination is perfect for adding a whimsical yet chic vibe to your casual attire.
Dressing Up with Berets
Berets can be a stylish addition to both evening outings and office settings.
You can add a unique touch with accessories like pearls or pair them with key pieces like a blazer to elevate your outfit.
Elevating Evening Attire
A beret can add a chic element to evening outfits.
Choose classic colors like black or navy for a timeless look.
If you’re going for a more daring style, consider a red beret to make a bold statement.
Pairing your beret with a little black dress is a great way to keep things elegant.
Add some pearls and a pair of sleek heels to complete the outfit.
The beret will give you that sophisticated French vibe that’s perfect for formal evenings.
If you’re attending a military event or dinner, you might opt for a beret in military colors.
Match with a tailored blazer and dress pants.
This look combines the right mix of formality and flair.
The trick is to balance the outfit so the beret stands out without looking out of place.
Adding Flair to Business Casual
You can also incorporate a beret into your office attire.
To maintain a professional appearance, select a neutral-colored beret like beige or grey.
This keeps your look polished and suitable for business environments.
Pair your beret with a crisp white shirt and a sleek blazer.
This combination brings a modern twist to classic business casual.
A statement necklace or a pair of pearl earrings can draw attention without being too flashy.
For a military-inspired look at work, try a beret with tailored dress pants and a structured blazer.
This approach adds a bit of military precision to your style while keeping it appropriate for the office.
Make sure the colors are coordinated to avoid clashing and maintain a neat, professional appearance.
Seasonal Beret Styles
Choosing the right beret style for the season can enhance both your fashion sense and comfort.
Each season brings unique opportunities to play with textures and colors.
Spring and Summer Berets
For spring and summer, lighter fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal.
These materials keep you cool in warmer weather while still looking stylish.
A cotton beret can be a breathable option, perfect for outdoor activities or casual strolls.
Light pastel colors and floral patterns are popular choices.
These soft hues match the vibrant feel of spring and summer.
You can also consider wearing straw berets for a unique twist.
When attending outdoor events or casual gatherings, go for minimalistic designs.
Keep the rest of your outfit simple.
This balances the stylish beret without making it look too formal.
Autumn and Winter Berets
As the weather cools down, switch to heavier materials like wool and velvet.
Wool berets provide excellent warmth, making them suitable for autumn and winter days.
In darker and muted shades, velvet berets add a stylish touch to your wardrobe.
Pairing a wool or velvet beret with a trench coat or woolen scarf works well for a cohesive look.
Military-inspired designs and colors, such as olive green or navy blue, can blend practicality with style.
This makes them perfect for colder days and adds a slightly rugged look.
For added warmth, consider berets with fleece lining.
This keeps you cozy while braving the cold weather.
Accessorizing with Berets
Adding the right accessories to your beret can completely transform your look.
From choosing the perfect earrings to combining your beret with scarves and glasses, these tips will help you rock that military style with confidence.
Selecting the Right Jewelry
Choosing the right jewelry can elevate your beret look. Statement earrings are a great choice.
They draw attention to your face and add a touch of flair.
Options like hoop earrings or combat-style studs can complement a military-inspired outfit.
Necklaces should be kept simple if you’re wearing larger earrings.
A subtle chain or dog tag can add a military vibe without overwhelming your look.
Keep in mind the balance between your beret and your jewelry to maintain a cohesive appearance.
Combining Berets with Scarves and Glasses
Pairing your beret with other accessories like scarves and glasses can add layers to your outfit. Scarves can provide both style and functionality.
A wool scarf wrapped around your neck not only keeps you warm but also complements the texture of your beret.
Choose solid, dark colors to stay in line with a military-inspired aesthetic.
Glasses can further complete your look.
Aviator sunglasses or tactical glasses can match the edgy feel of military fashion.
The combination of a beret with the right pair of glasses can convey confidence and readiness, enhancing your overall appearance.
By carefully selecting your jewelry and combining berets with compatible scarves and glasses, you can achieve a refined and stylish military-inspired look.
Makeup Tips to Complement Your Beret
When wearing a beret, it’s important to balance and enhance your look with the right makeup.
Focus on using blush and mascara to frame your face and pair your lip color with your beret to create a cohesive style.
Choosing the Right Blush and Mascara
Using the correct blush can add a healthy glow to your face, making the overall look even more striking.
Opt for blush tones that complement your natural skin tone.
If you have fair skin, a soft pink or peach blush works best.
For medium to dark skin tones, deeper shades like rose or coral are ideal.
Mascara is another essential.
It helps define your eyes, especially when the beret draws attention to your face.
Choose a waterproof mascara to ensure it stays intact for long hours, especially in demanding environments like military settings.
Curl your lashes and apply a few coats to make your eyes pop.
This will give you an awake and fresh appearance that balances well with your beret.
Lip Colors and Beret Pairings
Lip color can significantly enhance your look when wearing a beret.
If you’re going for a classic military style outfit, opt for neutral or nude lip shades.
These colors are practical and won’t overshadow the rest of your look.
For a bolder statement, match a vibrant beret with a berry or red lipstick.
Red lip shades are iconic and can make your outfit stand out without needing elaborate makeup.
Remember to keep the rest of your makeup minimal to avoid looking overdone.
This approach ensures your beret remains the focal point and adds a sophisticated touch to your ensemble.
Iconic Beret-Wearers and Fashion Moments
Berets have been worn by many icons, leaving a mark in both the art and fashion worlds, as well as in film and music.
From influential painters to legendary musicians, the beret has become a symbol of style and expression.
From Picasso to Dior
Pablo Picasso was one of the first well-known figures to popularize the beret.
The famous painter often wore it while creating his masterpieces, giving the hat an artistic flair.
Christian Dior made the beret a high-fashion item.
Dior’s designs in the mid-20th century often included berets, making them a must-have accessory for the stylish Parisian wardrobe.
Another fashion icon, Coco Chanel, who was French like Dior, also embraced the beret, adding to its chic reputation.
Military figures such as the Black Panthers used the beret to symbolize their cause, blending style with powerful political statements.
The beret’s military connections have made it more than just a fashion accessory; it is a symbol of strength and unity.
Film and Music Industry Influences
In films, berets have been worn by characters to portray a certain look or attitude. Audrey Hepburn‘s character in “Funny Face” wore a beret, making it forever linked to elegance and sophistication.
The beret helped define the iconic look of her role.
In music, artists like Rihanna and Madonna have used berets to set trends.
Rihanna’s influence on fashion is significant, and her choice to wear berets has made them trendy and relevant in modern pop culture.
Musicians throughout history, from the revolutionary Che Guevara to stylish artists like Phoebe Bridgers, have used the beret as a statement piece, blending historical significance with contemporary fashion.
Tips for Maintaining and Storing Your Beret
Taking care of your beret ensures it looks great and lasts a long time.
Here are some key tips for cleaning, caring for, and storing your beret.
Cleaning and Care Guidelines
To keep your beret in good shape, wash it by hand in cold water.
Use a mild detergent to avoid damaging the fabric.
Gently rub the surface with your fingers to clean away dirt.
Avoid wringing or twisting the beret as this can cause it to lose its shape.
After washing, lay the beret flat on a clean, dry towel.
Pat it dry with another towel to remove excess water.
Do not put the beret in the dryer.
Air drying is best.
You can reshape it while it’s still damp by gently forming it back into its original shape.
If your beret gets wrinkled, use a fabric steamer or the steam setting on an iron.
Hold the steamer or iron above the beret without touching it.
– Steam and reshape as needed to keep it looking sharp.
Storing Your Beret to Preserve Its Shape
To store your beret, keep it in a cool, dry place.
Avoid putting it in direct sunlight as this can cause fading.
Use a hook or a padded hanger to maintain its shape.
If you don’t have a hook or hanger, a designated spot in your wardrobe will work.
Stuff the inside of the beret with tissue paper to help it keep its form.
Avoid storing heavy items on top of it to prevent flattening.
Keeping your beret in a breathable fabric bag is ideal.
This helps prevent dust buildup and keeps it fresh.
– Regular maintenance and proper storage will keep your beret looking pristine.
Additional Tips
For military berets, make sure to follow any specific guidelines about how to shape and care for the beret.
Each branch of the military may have its own instructions on how to maintain these headpieces.
Consider these tips part of your routine to keep all your berets in top condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing a beret can be fun and stylish for anyone.
Whether you’re a guy, a girl with short hair, someone with long locks, or even in the military, there are tips and tricks to help you rock this classic accessory.
What’s the trick to pulling off a beret if you’re a guy?
Men can pull off a beret by keeping the look simple.
Wear it straight on your head or slightly tilted.
Pair it with casual outfits like a t-shirt and jeans or a more formal look like a blazer.
Any tips for ladies rocking a beret with short hair?
For short hair, choose a beret that fits well so it stays in place.
Position it slightly to one side, letting a few strands of hair frame your face.
This adds a chic and playful touch to your look.
How can I style a beret with my long luscious locks?
If you have long hair, try wearing your beret back on your head, allowing some hair to flow freely.
You can also tuck some hair behind your ears or braid a section of hair.
Is there a secret to wearing a beret the French way for women?
To wear a beret the French way, place it flat on your head and then adjust it to sit a bit sideways.
Keep your makeup minimal and wear simple, stylish clothes for a classic, effortless look.
Can you still make a fashion statement with a beret if you’re bald?
Absolutely! A bald head can make the beret stand out even more.
Find a beret that fits snugly and wear it straight or slightly tilted for a bold, confident style.
What’s the proper way to wear a beret if you’re in the military?
Military personnel should wear their beret according to regulations.
Typically, this means it should sit straight on the head with the band just above the eyebrows.
The excess fabric should drape to the right side.