
A beret is an elegant round and flat cap usually woven or knitted. However, the true beauty of this cap comes out when you know how to wear a beret right. This soft-textured beauty is also seen as a part of uniforms, especially for the armed forces and many other organizations worldwide. This headgear can be styled in various ways, from casual, and street style to modern and even formal, to wear even during autumn and spring.
Sarah, a blogger, stated that she has an affinity for berets and likes to style them with various outfits. Talking about the same, she said, “I love them with jeans, with little strappy dresses, with off-the-shoulder jumpers, with my hair up, with my hair down – I just bloody love them. I’ve been wearing berets for years now and I’d like to think I’ve got quite a bit of experience under my belt….or, eh, beret (i).” The blogger also suggested that one should try and play around with the angle of the beret to create a look that works for them.
Ace The Look
- Pick The Correct Fit: Ensure the brim of the hat circles your crown in a snug fit for a smart look. Go for a lined beret to maintain its shape.
- Try The French Look: Pair your beret with a minimal or muted makeup look with a berry shade lipstick.
- Make It Stand Out: If you have a beret in a vibrant color like bright yellow, red, or pink, keep your outfit muted to make the beret the highlight of your look.
In This Article
1. History Of The Beret
2. Key Takeaways
3. Ways To Wear A Beret
4. How To Wear A Beret With Short Hair?
5. How To Wear A Beret With Bangs?
6. How To Wear A Beret With Curly Hair?
7. How To Wear A Beret With Long Hair?
8. Styling Ideas For Different Occasions
9. Infographic: 4 Different Hairstyles For A Beret
10. Frequently Asked Questions
11. Illustration: How To Wear A Beret Without Looking Ridiculous
History Of The Beret
The beret is a soft, round, flat-crowned hat that originated in the Pyrenees region of France and Spain, dating back to the 17th century. It was traditionally worn by shepherds and peasants for its practicality, providing protection from the sun and warmth in cold weather. Over time, the beret became a symbol of French military and cultural style, especially in the 20th century, when it was adopted by artists, intellectuals, and various political movements. Its association with elegance and rebellion made the beret a timeless fashion accessory, especially in the 1960s and 1970s, when it was embraced by icons like Audrey Hepburn and Che Guevara. Today, the beret continues to be a stylish and versatile accessory worn worldwide.
Key Takeaways
- A beret is typically worn around one side of the head leaning, coming almost up to the forehead.
- The beret needs to be secured or supported so that it doesn’t fall off or you don’t have to keep adjusting it.
- For short hair, ticking and braiding are the two most popular ways while for longer hair, side braids, middle parting, or a bun works best.
Ways To Wear A Beret
There are several stylish ways to wear a beret, each creating a different vibe:
- Classic Tilt: Tilt the beret slightly to one side for a chic, effortless look. This is the most common and timeless style.
- Straight On: Wear the beret flat on your head for a more formal or polished look, often seen in military or classic fashion.
- Casual Back: Position the beret slightly toward the back of your head for a laid-back, bohemian feel. This works well with loose waves or tousled hair.
- Low and Over the Ears: Wear the beret low over the ears for a cozy, more practical style. This can be ideal for colder weather.
- With Hair Out: Let your hair peek out from under the beret for a relaxed and playful look, especially with curls or waves.
Each style can be paired with different outfits, from casual to elegant, making the beret a versatile accessory.
How To Wear A Beret With Short Hair?
Having short hair has its own pros and cons, we all love it for the lesser maintenance it requires but when it comes to styling, maybe a little work is needed there. Below are some ideas on how to wear a French beret hat with short hair. So read on!

If you have a pixie cut, then you don’t have to think twice, but just rock a cropped top and a pair of jeans and put on a titled beret! Because there is no way this is not working! And if you are wondering how to wear a leather beret, then this haircut is perfect. Also, adding sunglasses can spice up this look even better!
The classic tucking style:
- Start with taking a small scrunchie or thin band and tie all your hair into a low pony.
- To make it stylish, you can leave your fringes or bangs to the front and then gather the remaining portion of your hair.
- Take the beret and place the lower bottom of the beret below the knot so that it covers the knot.
- You can now neatly place the beret around your head.
- You can give it a slight tilt, towards your left. Make sure the hair knot is covered under the beret.
Style three: Braiding!
- Take a portion from the thicker front part of your hair.
- Make a thin braid out of that portion.
- Place the beret on the opposite side, slightly tilted until the root of the braid.
- You can tuck the end of the braid behind your ears or you can use a hair clip to make it stay
How To Wear A Beret With Bangs?

Wearing a beret with bangs can be a stylish and chic look. Here are a few tips on how to rock this combination:
- Wear the Beret Low and Loose: Position the beret just above the brows or slightly over them, allowing your bangs to peek out from underneath. This creates a soft, relaxed look that frames your face well.
- Tilt to the Side: For a more playful, asymmetrical look, tilt the beret slightly to one side. Let your bangs naturally fall across your forehead, adding a touch of edge to the overall style.
- Push the Beret Back: If you want a more carefree style, wear the beret slightly back, so your bangs have more visibility. This can give off a more relaxed, boho vibe.
- Comb Your Bangs: If your bangs are blunt or straight, use a light hairspray to keep them in place and avoid them becoming hidden under the beret. This works well for both straight and side-swept bangs.
- Messy Look: For a more undone, casual style, let your bangs slightly separate or frame your face loosely under the beret, especially if you have textured or curtain bangs.
This combination adds flair and sophistication while keeping your look fresh and modern!
How To Wear A Beret With Curly Hair?

Now, curly hair altogether gives a different look. We have done some homework and have come up with some ideas for you on how to wear a french beret when you have those curls!
- If you have curly thick hair that does not stay in place, you can try this style! Take a big hair band or scrunchie and put it over your head just over the forehead till the back. This way the hair will not project the beret when you wear it. Now place the beret along with the band! Now the band holds the hair but the beret will add on to your look!
- You can try a pony for curly hair as well! Tie a medium-high pony. The beret can be worn just above the knot of the pony.
- Next up, is a messy bun! Try a messy bun leaving the top portion of your hair at the front to make a side fringe. Now you have two options for the beret. Either you can cover the entire bun and wear it over it. Or, you can wear it just above the bun and cover the top portion of your head. Either way, you will look awesome!
How To Wear A Beret With Long Hair?

Wearing a beret with long hair can be a stylish and effortless way to add flair to your look. Here are some ways to do it:
- Loose Waves with a Tilted Beret: For a relaxed and chic vibe, wear the beret tilted to one side and let your long hair fall in loose waves. This creates a soft, romantic look.
- Sleek and Straight: For a polished style, wear your hair straight and sleek, either tucked neatly under the beret or allowed to hang out. The beret can sit flat on the head or be tilted slightly back for an elegant, minimalist feel.
- Low Ponytail: Gather your long hair into a low ponytail and wear the beret slightly back. This gives a more refined look while keeping the focus on the beret itself.
- Braided Style: A fishtail braid or loose braid works beautifully with a beret. You can wear the beret tilted to one side, letting the braid cascade down your back for a cute, boho-inspired look.
- Half-Up, Half-Down: For a fun and casual style, gather the top half of your hair into a bun or ponytail and leave the bottom half loose. Wear the beret at the crown of your head, allowing the hair to flow freely underneath.
Each style gives a different vibe, from relaxed and bohemian to sleek and polished, allowing you to tailor your beret look to any occasion.
Styling Ideas For Different Occasions

There are plenty of ways to style berets for different occasions. The beret’s charm lies in its ability to be both lightweight enough to carry into spring and thick enough to keep your head warm throughout the winter, making it a versatile option to elevate your look. The best part is it can give a feminine touch to your springtime look and go nicely with transitional ensembles (such as long-sleeved dresses and flowy blouses).
Here are some styling tips that you can keep in mind:
- Casual Street Style Look: Pair a beret with a mini skirt or denim outfit for a cool, city-street-ready look. Additionally, you can also wear your traditional beret with edgy pieces like combat boots or a leather jacket to nail a contemporary street-inspired look. You can also dial your style by accessorizing your look with chunky earrings or necklaces.
- Formal: Style your beret with a monochrome suit to complete your formal look. You can also try pairing a black turtleneck, checkered jacket, and black beret to achieve a more classy, polished formal look. You may consider adding short heels and high-waisted pants to complete the ensemble. Opt for pearl accessories or minimalist necklaces or earrings to further elevate the look.
- Off-Duty Look: If you have a printed beret, style it with a white shirt and skirt to let your hat be the focal point of your look. You may also play with contemporary beret colors that complement the hues of your outfit.
- Eclectic Look: Wear colorful ensembles and style your look with a binge beret to help it stand out. For instance, pairing a mustard yellow jacket with a Navy blue or maroon beret looks amazing.
These styling tips can be your go-to guide on how to dress at different events and style your beret accordingly.

Infographic: 4 Different Hairstyles For A Beret
The beret has to be one of the chicest and most timeless hair accessories around. It not only glams up your outfit but also instantly amps up your hairstyle. No wonder it is a part of the classic French girl look! Check out the infographic below for the top 4 trendy hairstyles to rock a beret with.

A beret is a stylish circular and flat cap made of woven or knitted fabrics. This vintage headwear can bring a unique statement to your style sense. We hope we have provided you with all of the information you might be looking for on how to wear a beret. Just make sure it is the proper fit for your head so that you don’t have to readjust it while wearing it. But keep in mind one small but crucial point: use the ideas we have listed above to create your unique style statement. Allow your appearance to speak for you and better reveal your personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can men wear berets?
Yes, men can wear berets! Historically associated with military, artistic, and intellectual cultures, the beret is a versatile accessory. Men can style it in various ways, including military-inspired looks, casual street style, or artistic boho vibes. Pairing a beret with a jacket, sweater, or tailored coat can add sophistication, while wearing it slightly tilted or pushed back gives a more relaxed, confident appearance. The beret remains a timeless and stylish choice for men.
2. What face shape can wear a beret?
A beret is a timeless fashion item that goes well with any face shape.
3.Are berets supposed to cover your ears?
Berets are typically not meant to cover the ears. They are designed to sit slightly above the ears or rest just at the top of the forehead. The ideal placement is often tilted to one side or positioned flat on the head, allowing the ears to remain exposed. However, in colder weather, you can wear a beret slightly lower over the ears for warmth without sacrificing style.
4. Is it OK to wear a beret indoors?
Yes. Berets can be worn indoors too as they create an elegant look.
Illustration: How To Wear A Beret Without Looking Ridiculous

Personal Experience: Source
Getmakeup’s articles are interwoven with authentic personal narratives that provide depth and resonance to our content. Below are the sources of the personal accounts referenced in this article.