How to Wear a Beret Without Looking Like a Tryhard
It's 2025, and the humble beret is making a comeback. Once the domain of French intellectuals and artsy types, this humble headpiece has now become a fashion staple for the everyman (and everywoman). But therein lies the problem - how do you wear a beret without looking like you're trying too hard?
Fear not, my sartorially-challenged friends, for I am here to impart my hard-earned wisdom on the art of beret-wearing. As the owner of Needful Things, a thriving women's clothing boutique, I've seen my fair share of beret-related fashion faux pas. But I've also learned a thing or two about how to pull off this tricky trend with effortless style.
The Beret Basics
Let's start with the basics. The beret is a circular, flat cap typically made of wool or felt. It originated in the Basque region of France and Spain, where it was worn by shepherds and farmers as a practical way to keep their heads warm. Over time, the beret became associated with French intellectuals, artists, and revolutionaries, thanks in part to iconic figures like Che Guevara and Jean-Paul Sartre.
Nowadays, the beret has shed its political and intellectual connotations, and has become a more mainstream fashion accessory. But that doesn't mean it's any easier to wear. In fact, the beret can be a tricky hat to pull off, as it has a tendency to make the wearer look like they're trying too hard to be "cool" or "artsy."
The Pitfalls of Beret-Wearing
One of the biggest mistakes people make when wearing a beret is trying to wear it at a jaunty angle. This can often make the wearer look like they're trying too hard to channel their inner French New Wave film star. Instead, the key is to wear the beret straight on the head, with the brim sitting just above the eyebrows.
Another common pitfall is pairing the beret with overly "trendy" or "edgy" outfits. Berets work best when they're worn with more casual, relaxed outfits, rather than with heavily styled or "fashion-forward" looks. Think jeans, a simple t-shirt, and a leather jacket - not a head-to-toe designer ensemble.
Finally, it's important to choose the right beret for your face shape and personal style. Not all berets are created equal, and what looks great on one person might not work for another. Experiment with different materials, colors, and silhouettes until you find the perfect beret for you.
The Art of Effortless Beret-Wearing
Now that we've covered the basics and the common pitfalls, let's talk about how to wear a beret with true effortless style. The key is to treat the beret like any other accessory - something that complements your outfit, rather than the focal point of your look.
Start by choosing a beret that fits your head comfortably and sits straight on your head. Avoid anything too tight or too loose, as this can make the beret look like it's wearing you, rather than the other way around.
Next, pair your beret with a casual, relaxed outfit. A simple t-shirt, jeans, and a leather jacket or denim jacket is a great starting point. You can also try pairing your beret with a midi skirt and a tucked-in blouse for a more feminine look.
The key is to avoid looking like you're trying too hard. Embrace the casual, laid-back vibe of the beret, and let your outfit do the talking. Accessorize sparingly, and focus on creating a cohesive, effortless look.
Conclusion
Wearing a beret without looking like a tryhard is all about finding the right balance. It's about embracing the casual, relaxed vibe of the beret, and letting it complement your overall look, rather than dominating it.
With a little bit of experimentation and a lot of confidence, you can rock the beret trend without looking like you're trying too hard. So go forth, my friends, and wear your berets with the effortless style of a true Parisian.
