Hats

It is undeniable that clothing choice is one of the ways that we as humans proclaim our singularity. There are as many different personalities in this world as there are styles and combinations of clothing. It is true that most articles of clothing are necessary for social acceptance (no shirt, no shoes, no service); therefore, it is in the choice of those articles of clothing which are “un-necessities” that our true personalities can be seen. In America, the Hat, which rests just above the window to the soul, is probably the most unnecessary article of clothing needed to show the world who we are.
There are a number of different types of people who wear hats befitting their type. Firstly is the ball-cap-wearing sports fan. Often male, this person insists upon “bending the bill” of his ball cap, which always will have the brand of his favorite athletic team, along with that team’s colors quite evident on the fedora. The brim of the hat serves two purposes: to keep the blazing sun out of the person’s face while attending a ballgame, and to tunnel-vision the person’s eyes on his favorite player.
In hat-familial terms, the cousin of the ball cap is the punk cap. This type of hat is very similar is construction to the ball cap, but is worn by a very different type of person. The punk tries to “go against the grain,” often for the mere attention gained, and always tries to undermine authority. His hat reflects these feelings. The brim is always off kilter and is very vibrantly colored.
Originally, the beanie was meant to keep the head warm in the below-comfortable temperatures. In covering the ears twofold, the beanie is well-suited to its intention, and retains heat through a simple system of insulation. While now it is worn for personal identity, its initial meaning has not been lost, for it is worn by pastime-outdoorsmen. Skiers, bikers, and hunters everywhere can be seen employing the beanie. All intend to keep their heads warm in style.
The golfer’s hat (or gentleman’s cap) is the symbol of white-collarity in the hat world. It is the hat that all self-respecting businessmen aspire to wear. The hat’s design employs the brim to keep the elements off the face, with optional ear-flaps that can be turned down for the worst of weather. It therefore combines the utility of both the ball-cap and the beanie while producing something completely different in construction.
The hat defines us. Our preference shows the world our views on style and modesty. Woe be to those who wear no hat, who hide their true selves from the world. Just as the eyes are the window to the soul, also the hat is the quirky roof of the soul.