How to Achieve a Vintage-Inspired Look with a Classic Cloche Hat

by

Mastering the Cloche: Your Definitive Guide to a Vintage-Inspired Look

The cloche hat, a symbol of 1920s elegance and rebellion, offers a uniquely charming way to infuse your modern wardrobe with a touch of bygone glamour. Far from being a costume piece, this iconic bell-shaped hat is a versatile accessory that, when styled correctly, can elevate your entire ensemble. This guide will take you beyond simply placing a hat on your head, providing a comprehensive, actionable roadmap to achieving a flawless vintage-inspired look with a classic cloche. We’ll focus on practical techniques and concrete examples, ensuring you have all the tools to transform your style with this timeless headpiece.

Section 1: The Foundation – Selecting the Perfect Cloche

Your vintage-inspired journey begins with the hat itself. Choosing the right cloche is paramount, as its shape, material, and color will dictate the rest of your styling choices.

1.1 The Art of Proportions: Finding the Right Fit

A cloche is designed to be worn low on the forehead, covering most of the hair and framing the face. The wrong fit can completely throw off the look.

  • Measure Before You Buy: Use a flexible tape measure to find the circumference of your head, just above your ears and across your forehead. A well-fitting cloche should feel snug but not tight.

  • The Crown is Key: The crown of a cloche should hug the top of your head without a lot of excess space. A crown that is too tall or too wide will look out of place and lose the hat’s characteristic silhouette.

  • Brim Balance: The brim should be a natural extension of the crown, typically a subtle downturn. Avoid cloches with overly wide or stiff brims, as these can obscure your face rather than frame it.

Actionable Example: If your head circumference is 22 inches, a cloche labeled “Medium” (often 22-22.5 inches) will likely be your best bet. Try on several to feel the difference. A hat that slips down over your eyes is too big; one that perches high on your head is too small.

1.2 Material Matters: Fabric for Every Season

The material of your cloche plays a crucial role in its functionality and aesthetic.

  • Wool Felt: The quintessential cloche material. It’s warm, durable, and provides the structure needed for the hat’s classic shape. Perfect for autumn and winter.

  • Straw or Raffia: Ideal for spring and summer. A straw cloche maintains the vintage shape while offering breathability. Look for tightly woven options for a more polished look.

  • Velvet or Silk: Reserved for special occasions or evening wear. These luxurious materials add a touch of formality and opulence to a cloche, making it suitable for a cocktail party or a formal dinner.

  • Knitted Wool: A more casual and comfortable alternative for cold weather. A knitted cloche offers a softer, cozier take on the vintage look.

Actionable Example: For a winter ensemble, choose a deep burgundy or forest green wool felt cloche. Pair it with a tweed coat and leather gloves for an effortlessly chic, cold-weather vintage look.

1.3 Color Palette: Building a Cohesive Wardrobe

The color of your cloche should complement your skin tone and coordinate with your wardrobe.

  • Neutrals First: Start with a neutral-colored cloche (black, navy, cream, beige). These are the most versatile and will pair with the widest range of outfits.

  • Jewel Tones: For a pop of color, jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red are excellent choices. These colors are both historically accurate and incredibly flattering.

  • Pattern Play: While solid colors are most common, a cloche with a subtle pattern, like a small houndstooth or a delicate floral print, can add visual interest. Just ensure the pattern isn’t overwhelming.

Actionable Example: If you have warm undertones, a cloche in camel, chocolate brown, or olive green will enhance your complexion. If you have cool undertones, opt for colors like charcoal gray, deep plum, or navy blue.

Section 2: The Art of Styling – Integrating the Cloche into Your Outfit

The cloche is a statement piece, but it shouldn’t stand alone. It must be seamlessly integrated into a cohesive outfit.

2.1 Silhouettes: Creating a Period-Accurate Look

The cloche’s most natural companion is the silhouette of the 1920s and 1930s.

  • The Dropped Waist: The defining silhouette of the 1920s, a dropped waist dress creates a long, lean line that works perfectly with the cloche’s low profile.

  • A-Line Skirts: A knee-length A-line skirt paired with a simple blouse or sweater creates a softer, more universally flattering vintage-inspired look.

  • The Flapper Dress: For a true evening look, a flapper dress with fringe, beading, or intricate embroidery is the ultimate pairing. The movement of the dress complements the sleekness of the hat.

  • Tailored Trousers: Don’t limit yourself to dresses. High-waisted, wide-leg trousers paired with a fitted blouse and a cloche offer a sophisticated, androgynous take on vintage style.

Actionable Example: For a casual daytime look, pair a cream-colored cloche with a navy-and-white striped long-sleeved shirt tucked into a camel-colored A-line skirt. Finish with a pair of low-heeled spectator shoes.

2.2 Fabrics and Textures: Layering for Depth

Playing with textures adds richness and dimension to your vintage-inspired outfit.

  • Tweed and Wool: A tweed blazer or wool coat is a classic choice for pairing with a felt cloche. The texture of the fabric creates a satisfying contrast with the smooth felt.

  • Silk and Satin: Incorporate these luxurious fabrics in a blouse, a scarf, or a dress to add a touch of femininity and elegance, contrasting with the more structured feel of the hat.

  • Knitwear: A fine-gauge knit sweater or a ribbed turtleneck can be a fantastic base layer. The softness of the knit balances the structured hat.

Actionable Example: Combine a gray felt cloche with a crisp white silk blouse, a charcoal gray pleated wool skirt, and a camel-colored trench coat. The mix of textures – felt, silk, wool, and gabardine – creates a visually compelling and layered look.

2.3 Color Coordination: Building a Harmonious Palette

Color is a powerful tool in creating a polished vintage-inspired ensemble.

  • Monochromatic: A monochromatic or tonal color scheme is a simple and elegant way to style a cloche. For example, pair a deep brown cloche with varying shades of tan, beige, and cream.

  • Complementary Colors: Use complementary colors to create visual interest. A deep blue cloche with a mustard yellow scarf or a burgundy hat with an olive green coat.

  • Subtle Pops of Color: Let the cloche be the main color statement. For example, a black outfit with a single, vibrant red cloche creates a striking and confident look.

Actionable Example: For a sophisticated look, wear a black cloche with a black silk dress, black sheer stockings, and black low-heeled pumps. Add a single color accent, such as a deep red lipstick or a pearl necklace.

Section 3: The Finishing Touches – Accessories and Details

The cloche is the centerpiece, but the right accessories complete the picture, adding authenticity and personality.

3.1 Jewelry: Understated Elegance

The cloche’s main purpose is to frame the face. Overly large or ornate jewelry can detract from this.

  • Long Pearl Necklaces: A classic flapper accessory. A single or multiple strands of pearls, often knotted, drape beautifully against a simple neckline.

  • Delicate Drop Earrings: Small, dangling earrings or simple pearl studs are perfect. They add a touch of sparkle without competing with the hat.

  • Art Deco-Inspired Pieces: Look for geometric shapes and intricate patterns characteristic of the Art Deco period. Brooches, cuff bracelets, or delicate rings in silver or platinum fit the aesthetic.

Actionable Example: Pair a simple black cloche with a silk blouse and an ankle-length skirt. Add a single strand of pearls that hangs to your navel and a pair of small Art Deco-inspired silver drop earrings.

3.2 Footwear: Grounding the Look

The right shoes are essential for a complete vintage-inspired outfit.

  • Mary Janes: With their classic strap across the instep, Mary Janes are a timeless choice that pairs beautifully with A-line skirts and dropped-waist dresses. Look for versions with a block heel or a low, curved heel.

  • T-Strap Heels: These shoes, with a strap running down the center of the foot, are a hallmark of the 1920s. They are perfect for dancing and add a delicate touch to any outfit.

  • Spectator Shoes: These two-toned leather shoes (often black and white or brown and white) are a great choice for a more casual, daytime look.

  • Low-Heeled Oxfords: For a menswear-inspired look, pair a cloche with tailored trousers and a pair of low-heeled oxfords.

Actionable Example: For a summer look, wear a straw cloche with a floral-print tea dress, a pair of white T-strap heels, and a wicker purse.

3.3 The Art of the Handbag

Choose a handbag that complements the era without being a caricature.

  • Beaded or Clasp Purse: For an evening look, a small beaded or sequined purse with a kiss-lock clasp is the perfect accessory.

  • Wicker or Rattan: For a daytime summer look, a structured wicker or rattan bag adds a playful, rustic touch that works well with a straw cloche.

  • Small Leather Clutch: A sleek, rectangular leather clutch is a timeless choice that works for both day and night and pairs well with a structured cloche.

Actionable Example: For a formal event, pair a velvet cloche with a matching velvet dress and a small, beaded art deco-inspired clutch.

Section 4: Hair and Makeup – The Final Touches

The cloche’s low-slung nature means your hair and makeup require special consideration.

4.1 Hair: The Perfect Frame

The cloche is designed to be worn over the hair, so an elaborate hairstyle is unnecessary and often counterproductive.

  • The Bob: The iconic haircut of the 1920s. A short bob, especially one with a chin-length cut and bangs, works perfectly with the cloche. The hat will sit naturally over the hair, with a few strands peeking out.

  • Finger Waves: This classic 1920s hairstyle, created by shaping wet hair into waves with your fingers and a comb, is the ultimate way to style hair under a cloche. The hat will sit over the waves, with the front peek-a-booing out.

  • Pinned Up: If your hair is longer, simply pin it up at the nape of your neck in a low, neat bun or a simple chignon. This keeps your hair from getting in the way and allows the hat to be the focal point.

Actionable Example: To create a modern, easy finger wave look, part your hair on the side, apply a styling mousse, and use a curling iron to create soft S-shaped waves. Gently brush them out and put on your cloche, letting a few waves show in the front.

4.2 Makeup: Accentuating Features

The cloche draws attention to the eyes and lips. Makeup should enhance these features.

  • The Classic Eye: Think smoky eyes with a smudged liner and a soft gray or brown eyeshadow. Brows were often thin and arched in the 1920s, but a more natural, defined brow is a modern take.

  • Defined Lips: The quintessential 1920s lip was a small, cupid’s bow shape, often in a deep red or berry shade. Today, a defined lip in a matte red or a deep plum works perfectly.

  • Rosy Cheeks: A light dusting of blush on the apples of your cheeks adds a healthy, youthful glow without being overwhelming.

Actionable Example: After applying your foundation, use a matte red lipstick to create a sharp, defined lip shape. Use a soft brown eyeshadow to create a subtle smoky eye and finish with a coat of mascara. The cloche will frame your face, highlighting your dramatic lip and eye makeup.

Section 5: Attitude – The Final Ingredient

The most crucial element of achieving a vintage-inspired look is confidence. A cloche is a hat of quiet rebellion and self-assured elegance.

  • Posture is Everything: Stand tall with your shoulders back. The cloche, with its low profile, encourages a graceful, upright posture.

  • Embrace the Aesthetic: Don’t be afraid to own the look. The cloche is a statement, and you should wear it with the confidence of someone who knows they look fantastic.

  • Make it Your Own: While this guide provides a roadmap, the best looks are those that reflect your personal style. Feel free to mix and match eras or to incorporate modern elements. A cloche can be paired with a sleek leather jacket or a pair of tailored denim jeans. The key is to maintain the hat as the central vintage element.

Conclusion

Mastering the vintage-inspired cloche look is about more than just a single piece of clothing. It’s about a thoughtful and deliberate approach to styling, from selecting the perfect hat to choosing complementary fabrics, accessories, and makeup. By focusing on fit, proportion, and balance, you can transform this iconic piece into a defining element of your personal style. Use this guide as your blueprint, experiment with different combinations, and wear your cloche with the confidence and grace it deserves. The result will be a timeless, elegant look that is both authentically vintage and uniquely you.