6 Philly Stores That Will Turn You Into a Hat Person

Hat attack. | Shutterstock.

When it comes to polarizing accessories, a few items stand out for the intensity which with people either love or hate them: mules, jeggings, and hats. That last one is particularly tricky: Hipsters have all but ruined the fedora for most people, Britney Spears killed the newsboy, and Princess Beatrice took the fascinator to a new, terrifying level.

But it’s not all bad. In fact, the hat is making a stylish, wearable comeback (see: the berets at Gucci’s fall 2015 show; the wide-brimmed  toppers at Lanvin’s fall 2015 show). And with summer’s crop of styles, it’s never been easier to dip your toe into the trend. Here are Philly’s top shops for hats — from floppy to fedora, subdued to splashy, and everything in between.

Goorin Bros.
The extensive selection of men’s and women’s hats skews retro (boaters, bowlers, newsboys), but those without Boardwalk Empire leanings can still find modern-looking styles here (think floppy straw hats perfect for the beach). Not sure what shape works for you? Take advantage of free, private fit consultations (and a complimentary glass of whiskey) to help you navigate the endless options. Or check out their illustrated fit guide here.
Shoppist Pick: The handmade Marlon Fernandez panama hat, $160. 
1427 Walnut Street, Rittenhouse, 215-665-1895.

Joan Shepp
Fascinators fit for a tea party hold court in the front lobby area of this Rittenhouse stalwart. Here you’ll find sculptural, high-fashion hats (an ombré pleated Issey Miyake cap) and more mainstream options (a striped Eugenia Kim boater). Anglophiles and devoted Derby-goers will appreciate Christine A. Moore’s whimsical lace and ribbon creations.
Shoppist Pick: The Eugenia Kim boater, $264.
1811 Chestnut Street, Rittenhouse, 215-735-2666.

Third Street Habit
What you might not know: Old City’s haute-boho boutique has a surprisingly solid hat selection. You’ll find transitional toppers by LA-based cult brand Janessa Leone, summer-perfect straw baseball caps by Maison Scotch, and slightly floppy fedoras by Hat Attack. The hats here are easy-wearing and unfussy (you won’t find any fascinators), making it a perfect spot for entry-level wearers.
Shoppist Pick: Janessa Leone Lassen hat, $198.
151 North 3rd Street, Old City (215) 925-5455

Madewell
Minimal wide-brimmed hats, quilted cotton baseball caps and panama hats are as affordable as they are practical at this chain (the most expensive option is $65). Our recommendation: Forgo the straw options and instead scoop up one of the quilted cotton baseball hats, the perfect way to keep frizzy hair under wrap. Keep it in your gym bag for post-workout walks home.
Shoppist Pick: Quilted cotton baseball hat, $25 (now $22.50). 
1716 Walnut Street, Rittenhouse, 215-772-1213.

Hat Covet
This e-shop sells a well-curated collection of vintage styles, from one of-a-kind bowlers in sorbet shades to mint-condition 1930s pillbox hats embellished with feathers and beading. Insider tip: Check them out in person! You can find some of Hat Covet’s pieces at Atelier Rittenhouse.
Shoppist pick: 1920s pill box hat, $65.
1921 Walnut Street, Rittenhouse. (215) 266-7272

Everything But Water
This store may be known for its serious swimwear selection and coverups, but its hat collection is also worth shopping. Colorful fedoras, floppy hats and raffia cowboy styles from brands like Prymal and Theodora & Callum are ideal for the Shore or an off-the-grid getaway. Your best bet: One of many ultra-wide-brimmed floppies, perfect for protecting your face from the sun.
Shoppist Pick: Gottex Hats wide-brim hat, $82.
The Plaza at the King of Prussia Mall, 160 North Gulph Road, King of Prussia, 484-690-3315.