Although it’s always a good rule of thumb to observe your surroundings and act accordingly, there are a few general guidelines to follow.
1. Rest upside down.
Never lay a hat on its brim – the crown is the strongest part of the hat and resting it this way will keep the shape longer.
2. Wear the right material in the right season.
Felt hat in summer? Not a good look. Not only is it impractical, it makes the wearer look foolish. Stick to breathable straw in the summer and felt in the winter.
3. Never touch another person’s hat.
Cowboys take their hats very seriously, so don’t go messing with anyone else’s unless you’re looking to start a fight.
4. Don’t change your signature style.
Once you find the right look and shape that work for you, don’t try to mix it up down the line. Commit to one style that people will recognize as yours.
5. Your hat is a reflection of you.
The right hat is an expression of your personality, and how you treat your hat says a lot about you.
When to remove your hat:
- Meal Time – It’s never okay to wear you hat at the dinner table. Show everyone that you’re here to stay a while by removing your hat during meals. Exceptions: if there’s no safe place to rest your hat or you’re out on the range…it can stay on.
- Meeting Someone New – When you are introducing yourself, it is customary to remove your hat so as to fully present yourself. Remove your hat with your left hand, shake with your right, and replace as soon as you feel comfortable.
- During The National Anthem – Show respect for the flag by removing all headgear. If you feel so inclined, use your hat to cross your heart during the pledge.