By Nadine Moedt (The Cascade) – Email
Print Edition: October 15, 2014
As our West Coast winter approaches and UFV’s sketchy heating system begins to labour, outer layers become the only visible signifiers of personal style. Your one winter jacket doesn’t allow for much variance in wardrobe, and almost every attempt to add flair ends up with extra layers of ungainly bulk that has to be removed once inside and in class.
Lillie and Cohoe — local hat-makers based in Nelson, BC — have the solution to this style conundrum.
Hats have always been a symbol of class, and Lillie and Cohoe’s fall and winter collection is nothing if not classy. The styles have been inspired by West Coast winters: functionality and comfort blends with a touch of brilliant chic. If you think earflaps can’t look elegant, check out the Freda model, which adds a slight brim to keep ears and the back of your neck out of harm’s way.
The world of hattery can be difficult to navigate. When choosing a hat, look for function and simplicity. The goal should be to enhance your style, rather than distract; avoid plumes of feathers or overly complex blends of fabric and colour. A winter hat does not need a wide brim; look for a two-inch brim, which will protect your eyes from wind rather than sun.
Many upper-end fabrics such as furs and cashmere look and feel pretty, but won’t hold up in the perpetual dampness of a BC winter. Look for tweed, boiled wool, or mohair, which will act as wind-breakers and provide nice noggin insulation. While none of these are entirely waterproof, they won’t disintegrate in the rain.
Selecting colour depends on your personal preference. Look for hats that add a pop of brightness to the greys and muted tones of winter weather. Bright ruby reds and deep plums will add life to any outfit. If you don’t feel quite so bold, try navy or look for a two-toned beige to lighten your look. A textured fabric like knitted wool or tweed should be paired with simple colour so as to not appear too busy.
Hats can be worn for any occasion; wearing one while travelling pretty much instantly makes you the stylish protagonist of a quaint rom-com. If you’re looking for something that can be worn indoors and out, try a wide knitted headband.
If you’ve never considered wearing a hat, try checking out a local hat shop and trying some on. Roxanne’s hats in Fort Langley and the Granville Island Hat Shop are brimful of different options for any head size and shape, and both carry Lillie and Cohoe hats. A hat is an essential accessory to a unique fall wardrobe, adding personality and pizazz to your outerwear.
