Dandies Have Their Day, Westwood Recommends Tablecloths

At least in New York, designer hats are selling like hotcakes. Ann Demeulemeester and Sonia Rykiel versions have been moving off boutique floors at record speed. And retailers like Urban Outfitters are cashing in on the trend with slightly watered down versions of what’s selling on Madison Avenue, says the New York Times. Proof of the chapeau having its moment in the sun: the CFDA’s nomination of milliner Albertus Swanepoel for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award, which fashion designer Alexander Wang won earlier this week.

According to Swanepoel, the key to wearing a hat well is to make it personal. “You almost have to have a relationship with it. But not in a precious way. You have to wear it with a certain carelessness,” he told the Times. It’s also a recession-friendly way to update a fall look that fashion designer Vivienne Westwood might approve of. It seems the redheaded Brit legend is all about making the best of one’s limited sartorial resources in the currently unstable financial climate. Westwood told the Daily Express that during this recession “it’s all about looking glam, not buying cheap rubbish.” So, what if your budget is nonexistent? No need to fret. “Women should try on their husband’s jackets and even boxer shorts for size as outwear. Wearing political badges is also a great look, and kerchiefs worn as knickers can be fun for the disco or the beach. You can also tie tablecloths or even blankets around yourself to look good.”