Women wearing beautiful, eye-catching hats to church is a tradition like no other. The right hat can be the perfect statement piece to tie together the rest of your ensemble. The question is, which of the different types of church hats is right for you?

With so many different church hat styles it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially once you start weighing different materials and embellishments as well. That’s why we created this guide to help you feel more confident making the perfect pick. Here are some of our favorite styles:

• Wide-brimmed Hats

• Pillbox Hats

• Fascinators

• Cloche Hats

• Sinamay Hats

Each of these is available in our selection of women’s church hats here at Designer Church Suits. Browse our catalog and see all that we have in store for you and discover your new favorite hat for church today!

Should You Wear a Hat to Church?

First things first, why do women wear hats in church? Is this socially acceptable, or is it disrespectful? 

As you may already know, this is actually a time-honored tradition that carries deep historical and cultural significance. In many cultures, covering the head is seen as a sign of humility and piety. 

This can be backed by various religious texts and practices emphasizing the need for modesty and respect in places of worship. For example, 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 discusses the practice of women covering their heads during prayer, reinforcing that wearing a hat is a form of spiritual observance.

Church hats have become an integral part of worship attire from a cultural perspective as well, specifically within African American communities. The tradition of wearing elaborate and stylish hats to church, often referred to as “Sunday Best,” has been passed down through generations. 

These hats are statements of identity, pride, and cultural heritage. They reflect the wearer's personal style while adhering to the decorum expected in a church setting. In outdoor settings, church hats serve the practical purpose of shielding from the elements. 

So, yes - you should wear a hat to church, at least if you’re a woman. Unfortunately for men, there’s a double standard at play that requires you to remove your cap as you enter the service. That being said, let’s get into the different types of church hats you can choose from.

The Different Types of Church Hats

From casual styles to statement-making showstoppers, there is a church hat for every woman out there. We’ll unpack the most popular styles in our catalog along with common materials and embellishments to consider as well.

Wide-brimmed Hats

Wide-brimmed hats are a staple in church fashion, known for their dramatic and elegant appearance. These hats typically feature large brims that extend several inches from the crown, providing both style and protection from the sun.

They often include intricate details such as ribbons, flowers, and feathers. The wide brim allows for a bold statement, making them perfect for formal church services and outdoor events.

We love this style for significant events like Easter, weddings, and other celebrations where a more formal attire is appropriate. However, there’s never a wrong time to wear this type of hat to church.

Pillbox Hats

Pillbox hats are compact and stylish, offering a more subtle option compared to wide-brimmed hats. They’re round with a flat top and straight sides, sitting neatly on the crown of the head.

They’re commonly adorned with veils, bows, and brooches, providing a polished and elegant look. They’re easy to wear and manage, making them a practical choice for both formal and semi-formal church services.

Fascinators

Fascinators are smaller, decorative headpieces that add flair and fashion-forward style to church attire. They’re often attached to the head with a comb, headband, or clip.

You’ll find a wide variety of fascinator styles, from minimalist designs to elaborate creations featuring feathers, flowers, and intricate details. They’re commonly worn at an angle for a modern and chic touch.

These are a perfect pick for both formal and casual church services. Because they’re so lightweight and comfortable, they’re especially favored for warm weather or long services.

Cloche Hats

These bell-shaped hats fit snugly around the head with a brim that curves downward. This vintage style adds a unique and charming touch to church outfits.

Cloche hats are most often made from materials like wool, felt, and straw, which means you can choose from a wide range of textures and looks. You can even find styles with subtle embellishments such as ribbons and flowers for even more vintage appeal.

These hats are suitable for various church services, but we recommend reserving them for those with a less formal dress code. 

Sinamay Hats

Sinamay hats are crafted from a natural fiber derived from the banana plant, known for being lightweight and breathable. This makes them particularly popular for summer services as a way to beat the heat while still dressing to impress.

They tend to feature delicate weaves and intricate designs, with embellishments like lace, feathers, and bows. They provide an elegant and airy look that will earn you compliments every time you wear one.

Different Materials

Beyond the different types of church hats, you can find an even wider variety of materials to choose from. These influence both the look and feel of your hat, so don’t take the material lightly:

• Wool: Warm and durable, perfect for cooler months. These hats can be felted or knitted for a variety of textures and styles.

• Felt: Versatile and suitable for year-round wear. It offers a smooth finish and is often used for classic styles like cloche hats.

• Straw: Lightweight and breathable, ideal for summer services. They come in various weaves and styles, from simple to elaborate.

• Velvet: Rich and luxurious, providing a sophisticated look with added warmth for those cold winter months.

Common Embellishments

Embellishments can transform a simple hat into a statement piece, adding personality and flair. Here are some common embellishments found on church hats:

• Feathers: These add movement and elegance, often used in fascinators and wide-brimmed hats.

• Flowers: These provide a touch of femininity and can be used to match or complement the outfit.

• Ribbons and Bows: These offer a classic and polished look, often used to encircle the crown or adorn the brim.

• Veils: A mysterious and sophisticated element perfect for more formal occasions.

• Beading and Sequins: These can add sparkle and glamor, making the hat stand out.

Which Style is Right For You?

There you have it - all the different church hat styles you have at your disposal. We’re confident at least one of these styles stands out to you and is calling your name. But if not, here are some more tips on choosing the right types of church hats for your wardrobe: 

• Face Shape: Different styles flatter different face shapes. For example, wide-brimmed hats can elongate round faces, while cloche hats complement angular faces.

• Personal Style: If you prefer classic elegance, opt for a pillbox or cloche hat. For a modern and trendy look, a fascinator might be the best choice.

• Occasion: Consider the formality of the church service or event. Wide-brimmed hats and sinamay hats are perfect for formal occasions, while fascinators and pillbox hats can be suitable for more casual services.

• Season: Wool and velvet are ideal for winter, while straw and sinamay are perfect for summer. There are options that are great for year-round wear as a more versatile pick.

Remember, though, that you can always get in touch with our experts here at Designer Church Suits for assistance in choosing the perfect style for your unique needs. So, reach out today or browse our catalog now!

Browse the Most Fashionable Church Hat Styles at Designer Church Suits!

Designer Church Suits is your trusted source for all your Sunday Best. From designer church hats to church dresses, and even church suits for women, you can always step into the chapel looking and feeling your best when you shop with us.

Our collection features top brands renowned for their quality and craftsmanship, ensuring that each hat is both stylish and durable. That includes Lily Taylor, Donna Vinci, Giovanna, and more. 

From classic wide-brimmed hats to chic fascinators, the perfect hat to complement your church attire is here in our catalog waiting to be discovered. We’ve curated all the different church hat styles you could be interested in.

You can also narrow your search based on color, as we have black church hats, white church hats, and everything in between. Or, shop based on budget - you can browse our church hats under $100 for the best value.

With more than 30 years of experience in this industry, we’ve earned a reputation for consistently delivering top-quality attire and even better customer service. So, don’t look anywhere else for an elegant church hat, stick with a brand you can trust. Shop today!

Wrapping Up Our Guide to Church Style Hats

That does it for our guide to the different types of church hats. While there are so many church hat styles to choose from, we hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options and gain a better understanding of which is right for you.

From wide-brimmed hats to chic fascinators, there is a perfect style for every occasion and individual taste. The right hat not only complements your outfit but also enhances your overall church-going experience.

You can learn more about how to dress for church in our blog, or you can start your search for the stunning church hats you deserve at Designer Church Suits today. Find the perfect hat to reflect your style and elevate your presence in every service!