Berets are a great accessory, but it can be hard to find the perfect one for your style. With so many different types of berets available, how do you know which one is right for you? Do you go with the traditional French beret or something more modern? Wool or cotton? Well, we've got you covered. Our guide to 23 Types of Berets will help you find the perfect beret for your look. Whether you're looking for a classic wool beret or something a little more out there, we've got all that here. Advertisement Generally, a beret is a soft, round, flat-crowned cap, typically made of wool or cashmere. Berets are worn by men and women in many countries around the world. Beret styles vary from region to region, but all are intended to provide warmth and comfort. The word "beret" comes from the French language itself, which means "round, flat, woolen cap". It is believed that the beret hats were originally worn as a fashionable accessory by Basque peasants in 1827. Then, beret hats became popular in France during World War I when they were worn by French soldiers. After the war, berets continued to be popular in France and other European countries. In the United States, berets did not become popular until the 1960s. The beret was introduced to the United States by Hollywood stars such as Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Berets became popular among American college students in the 1970s. Today, berets are worn by people of all ages all around the world. Usually, a beret is a soft, round, flat-crowned hat, usually of woven, hand-knitted wool. However, there's more to that. Berets come in many different kinds and styles. Some types can be worn by men and some other types can be worn by women. However, there are also other types that are perfect for both men and women and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're dressing up or dressing down, we've got the perfect beret hat for you. Advertisement When the weather starts to turn chilly, a chunky knit beret is the perfect way to keep your head warm. This style of beret has been popular for many years, and it’s easy to see why. The thick knit fabric keeps your head and ears warm, while the loose fit allows you to wear it in a variety of ways. There are many different ways to wear a chunky knit beret. You can wear it as-is, or fold up the edge for a more fitted look. You can also wear it with the front or back of the beret facing forward. If you’re looking for a more casual look, you can also wear it as a slouchy beanie. A chunky knit beret is the perfect accessory for cool fall days or winter nights. The Basque beret, a soft, round-shaped hat with a brim, is a traditional symbol of the Basque people. The beret is often made from wool or sheepskin and is typically black, green, or red in color. The beret is believed to have originated in the Pyrenees Mountains region of France and Spain and has been worn by the Basque people for centuries. Overview of the Beret Hat
History of the Beret Hat
The 23 Styles and Different Types of Beret Hats
23. Chunky Knit Beret
22. Basque Beret
Today, the Basque beret is popular among both men and women and is often seen as a sign of cultural pride.
21. Beret with Veil
A beret with a veil is a type of beret that has a veil attached to it. This type of beret is usually worn by women and is often seen as a fashion statement.
The veil can be made from a variety of materials, including lace, silk, or chiffon. It is typically attached to the beret using ribbon or elastic and can be worn in a variety of ways.
Some women choose to wear the veil draped over their faces, while others choose to wear it tucked back behind their heads.
All in all, a beret with a veil design can add a touch of elegance to any outfit and is perfect for special occasions.
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20. Mohair Beret
The Mohair beret is made from Mohair wool, which is known for its softness and durability. It is also a lightweight fabric, which makes it ideal for warmer weather climates.
The Mohair beret is both stylish and practical and can be worn in a variety of ways.
It is also comfortable to wear and can be easily dressed up or down.
19. Leather Beret
A leather beret is a type of headwear that is made from cowhide or another type of leather. The beret is typically worn in a “peak” style, meaning that it sits atop the head and has a visor-like brim.
Leather berets are often associated with France, as the country is known for its traditional beret-wearing residents. However, leather berets can be worn by anyone, regardless of nationality.
When it comes to choosing a leather beret, you have two main options: PU leather or faux leather. So, what's the difference between these two materials?
PU Leather Beret vs Faux Leather Beret
PU leather is made from a split leather backing that has been coated with a polyurethane layer. This gives it a more pliable and breathable feel than faux leather.
Faux leather, on the other hand, is made from a textile base that is then coated with an acrylic layer. This makes it more durable and water-resistant than PU leather.
So, which is better? PU leather or faux leather? That depends on your needs. If you're looking for a beret that's more comfortable and breathable, then PU leather is the way to go.
If you need a beret that's more durable and water-resistant, then faux leather is the better option.
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18. Embellished Beret
While the traditional beret is the most popular option, there are some different styles that can pop some interest. This includes embellished berets, which are adorned with sequins, beads, and other decorative details.
An embellished beret can add a pop of color or sparkle to any outfit. They are perfect for special occasions, such as weddings or holiday parties, but can also be worn every day.
There are many different styles available, so you can find the perfect one to suit your personality. If you’re looking for a unique and stylish hat to wear this winter, consider an embellished beret.
17. Kids Beret
There is a big difference between kids berets and regular berets. Kids berets are typically smaller in size and have a more flexible fit. They are also made from materials that are softer and more comfortable for children to wear.
Kids berets are often brightly colored or decorated with fun designs, which makes them perfect for young children who want to express their own unique style.
16. Reversible Beret
A reversible beret is a great addition to any wardrobe. It can be worn with the color on the outside or on the inside, depending on your mood or outfit.
This type of beret is typically made from a wool or acrylic blend, which makes it soft and comfortable to wear.
It also has a snug fit, so it won't fly off your head when you're out and about.
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15. Fur Beret
This type of beret is made from animal fur and is often worn in cold weather climates. There are many different types of fur berets available on the market today.
The most common type of fur used to make a beret is rabbit fur.
However, other types of animal furs, such as fox, mink, and sable, can also be used. Fur berets are often lined with fleece or other soft materials to keep your head warm in cold weather.
If you are looking for a stylish winter hat that will keep you warm, consider buying a fur beret.
14. Wool Beret
The wool beret is a versatile headwear option that can be worn in a variety of ways. It is often associated with French culture, but it can be worn by people of all nationalities.
Like its name, the beret is made from wool or wool alternatives such as suede, which makes it a warm and comfortable option for cooler weather.
It can also be wet down and used as insulation against the cold. The beret can be worn with the brim pulled up or down, depending on the look that you are going for.
13. Chef Beret
The Chef Beret is made of a lightweight, fire-resistant fabric that protects the chef's head and hair from heat and flames. It also has a built-in sweatband to absorb moisture and keep the chef cool.
It is also important for the chef to wear the hat as a part of cleanliness, to keep hair out of food, and to help absorb sweat.
This beret is available in black or white, and it can be custom-fitted to any size head.
Interestingly, it is also a symbol of excellence in the culinary field. It is a sign that the wearer has mastered their craft and achieved the highest level of culinary proficiency.
The Chef Beret is not given lightly; it is only awarded to those who have dedicated themselves to mastering the art of cuisine.
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12. Straw Beret
A straw beret is a lightweight, floppy hat made of straw. It has a wide brim and a soft, flexible crown. Straw berets are often worn by women in the summertime.
They are also popular with farmers and other outdoor workers because they keep the head cool and protect against the sun.
Straw berets can be bought at most department stores or online retailers.
11. Sequins Beret
Sequins berets are a type of beret that is decorated with sequins. They are often worn as part of a costume or as festive headwear.
Sequins berets can be made from a variety of materials, including felt, velvet, and silk.
They are usually adorned with sequins in a variety of colors and may feature a tassel or other ornamentation.
Sequins berets are generally considered to be dressy items and are not typically worn for everyday wear.
10. Pearl Beaded Beret
A pearl beaded beret is a type of headwear that is typically made from a soft, stretchy fabric and is adorned with pearls or other small beads.
It is often worn as part of a formal outfit, such as a bridal gown or evening gown, or can be worn for other special occasions.
The beret can also be worn as part of a more casual look, such as with a pair of jeans and a T-shirt.
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9. Corduroy Beret
The corduroy beret is a popular style of beret that is made from corduroy fabric.
This type of beret is typically made from a single piece of fabric, and it has a band around the edge that can be used to adjust the size.
The corduroy beret is a popular choice for people who want a stylish and comfortable hat that can be worn in cold weather.
8. Teddy Beret
The teddy beret is round in shape and has a soft, plush texture. The name "teddy beret" comes from the fact that the hat looks like a teddy bear's head.
The teddy beret is often worn as a winter hat, as it provides warmth and insulation. The beret can also be worn in the summertime, as it is lightweight and breathable.
The teddy beret is popular among both adults and children. It can be worn as a winter hat or as a summer hat. The teddy beret is available in many different colors and designs.
It can be purchased from online retailers and specialty stores.
7. Knitted Beret
There are many different types of berets, but the knitted beret is a classic style that never goes out of fashion. A knitted beret is obviously a great option for cold weather because it will keep your head and ears warm.
It can also be dressed up or down, making it a versatile accessory. If you are new to knitting, a beret is a great project to start with because it is simple to knit and doesn't require a lot of yarn.
Knitted berets are particularly popular among knitters because they can be made quickly and easily. They can be worked in a variety of yarn weights, making them perfect for all seasons.
A knitted beret is a great project for a beginner knitter, and can be completed in just a few hours. All in all, a knitted beret is the perfect accessory for any outfit, whether you're dressing up or dressing down.
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6. Tam
The Tam is not actually a beret, rather than actually a mix of Tam o’ Shanter military Cap and a Beret. Learn more here about the difference between a tam and a beret.
It is traditionally made from wool and is usually black, although it can also be found in other colors such as green and blue.
The Tam Beret is distinguishable by its flat top and cylindrical shape, which allows it to sit securely on the head. It is often decorated with a cord or ribbon, which is used to tie it in place.
The Tam Beret is typically worn by men, but women also occasionally wear them.
Historically, “tam” is a short word for the Tam O’Shanter, a Scottish wool hat with a pom-pom. Generally, a beret would be worn tilted to one side, while a tam would perch straight on the head.
The Tam Beret has a long history and has been worn by peasants, fishermen, and soldiers alike.
Today, the Tam Beret is still worn by some people as a fashion statement, while others wear it as part of their cultural heritage.
5. Slouchy Beret
Typically, a slouchy beret is a soft, woolen hat that is knit in a loose weave. It has a long and floppy earflap that hangs down the back of the wearer's neck.
The beret is often folded over to create a cuff at the bottom.
Slouchy berets are popular with both men and women. They can be worn as part of a casual outfit or as part of a more formal ensemble.
Many celebrities have been seen wearing slouchy berets in recent years.
4. Cashmere Beret
Cashmere berets are a luxurious and warm option for keeping your head and ears warm in the winter.
They are made from cashmere, which is a type of wool that is prized for its softness, warmth, and durability.
Cashmere berets come in many different styles, so you can find one that suits your personality and fashion sense. They are also very affordable, making them a great option for people on a budget.
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3. Pom Pom Beret
The pom-pom is a ball of yarn or other material that is attached to the top of a hat, and it serves as an ornament or decoration.
The pom-pom adds extra warmth and style to the beret, and it makes the hat more unique and interesting.
2. French Beret
French berets are particularly well-known and distinctive, thanks to their long association with the French military and fashion culture, especially during Paris Fashion Week.
They're typically made from soft materials like wool or felt, have a round shape, and feature a flat crown.
They're also usually quite lightweight, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
1. Military Style Beret
This type of beret is typically made from wool or synthetic fiber. It has a band around it that can be adjusted to fit different head sizes. The cap features a stiff brim that can be folded up or down.
The fabric is folded over and sewn to create a protrusion known as a "beret cap."
Beret caps are often decorated with a unit patch, rank insignia, or other symbols associated with the military.
FAQs
What are the different types of berets? ›
A maroon beret has been adopted as official headdress by the Airborne forces, a tan beret by the 75th Ranger Regiment, a brown beret by the Security Force Assistance Brigades, and a green beret by the Special Forces.
What is the difference between a tam and a beret? ›The Scottish tam is considered a specific, regional type of beret. Traditionally, a beret would be worn tilted to one side, while a tam would perch straight on the head.
What is the Basque beret called? ›Although the fact is disputed in the southwest of France by the Basques and the Landais, the beret is indeed Bearnais. The shepherds of the Pyrenees were inspired by the capelines worn by Roman legionnaires. Having learnt how to knit from the Saracens, they made the headgear to protect them from the cold and rain.
Is a beret French or Italian? ›A beret is a round, soft hat. Berets were first made in 17th-century France, and they're still commonly associated with that country. If you enjoy French culture, you might don a beret while eating baguettes with brie.
What are Green Berets called? ›The United States Army Special Forces (SF), colloquially known as the "Green Berets" due to their distinctive service headgear, are a special operations force of the United States Army. Principal Tasks: Unconventional Warfare (UW) Foreign Internal Defense (FID)
What is a Scottish beret called? ›Balmoral Cap/Bonnet/Beret | The Balmoral cap, formally known as the Kilmarnock bonnet is a traditional Scottish hat, worn as part of the formal (or informal) highland dress.
How do you wear a Basque beret? ›The traditional Basque Beret is worn with the leather headband inside the beret, but for more originality, you can wear it outside. Be careful, wearing your beret with the leather headband on the outside will reduce the size of the beret.
What is an Irish beret? ›The caubeen /kɔːˈbiːn/ is an Irish beret, formerly worn by peasants. It has been adopted as the head dress of Irish regiments of Commonwealth armies.
What is a Cabillou? ›The small tail called the Cabillou is the end of the beret.
What is a Spanish beret called? ›In Spain, the beret is usually known as the boina, sometimes also as bilbaína or bilba.
What do tan berets mean? ›
United States Army
In the U.S. Army, the tan beret can be worn only by those assigned to the 75th Ranger Regiment, the Airborne and Ranger Training Brigade, or have served with the regiment for at least one year and is still serving within a unit under the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.
Standard French fashion guides indicate that the beret should be slightly tilted to either the right or left, and should sit about ¾ of the way up your forehead. Berets are also a great way to add volume to your hair, especially if you have relatively flat hair in need of an extra lift.
Who wears brown berets in the army? ›SFAB soldiers will be on the ground with their partners - fighting side by side with them in all conditions, so the brown beret symbolizes dirt or mud akin to the "muddy boots" moniker given to leaders who are always out with the troops. Brown berets are not similar to any other beret currently in the Army inventory.
What does a red beret mean in France? ›Carlists. The red beret was worn as a distinguishing device by Carlist Guías de Navarra (Navarre Guides) soldiers in the First Carlist War, encouraged by their commander Tomás de Zumalacárregui. Regular Carlists wore a black beret.
What are the GREY berets? ›The Grey Berets, formerly called the Special Operations Weather Teams (SOWTs), are Air Force meteorologists with unique reconnaissance training to operate in hostile or denied territory, according to the Air Force.
Who wears light blue berets? ›Army Air Corps soldiers have been wearing the blue beret with pride since 1957. They use Army aircraft, such as the Apache attack helicopter, to deliver hard-hitting and effective support to ground forces during the key stages of battle. The AAC's role also includes reconnaissance.
Who wears pink berets? ›It is the mission, duty and purpose of The Pink Berets to address, educate, coordinate, and provide aid and relief to active duty women of the United States Armed Forces, Veterans, and First Responders seeking assistance with invisible injuries such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Military Sexual Trauma and ...
What is higher than the green beret? ›Green Berets provide unconventional warfare support for the U.S. Army and establish foreign relations throughout the world. Delta Force is a highly classified special unit that operates under the Joint Special Operations Command. Delta Force encounters some of the most dangerous missions in the world.
How many black Green Berets are there? ›Among Army Green Berets, 85% of its 1,494 officers are white and 4.5% are black. Its 5,947 enlisted Green Berets are 86% white and 5.4% black.
Is Delta Force higher than Green Berets? ›The primary difference between Delta Force and Green Berets lies in their areas of operation. Green Berets are typically deployed in smaller units worldwide, while Delta Force operators can conduct operations anywhere in the globe.
What are the flat Scottish hats called? ›
A tam o' shanter (in the British military often abbreviated to ToS) or "tammie" is a name given to the traditional Scottish bonnet worn by men.
What is a pipers hat called? ›The feather bonnet is a type of military headdress used mainly by the Scottish Highland infantry regiments of the British Army from about 1763 until the outbreak of World War I. It is now mostly worn by pipers and drummers in various bands throughout the world.
What is a Scotch bonnet hat? ›The Scottish bonnet has been around since the early 16th century and has grown into several variations from the Balmoral bonnet, Glengarry hat, to the Tam O' Shanter cap. Being worn through wars and traditional uniforms for hundreds of years, the Scottish bonnet is a recognizable staple to most Scotsmen.
How do you wear a Scottish beret? ›The rules of wear are simple. Below, find a few tips. 1. The beret is worn flat on top of the head about three-quarters of the way up the forehead and an inch or so behind the ears.
Why do you shave a beret? ›As with normal shaving, it is much better to do this when the thing is wet. Shaving the beret makes it easier to shape and gets rid of all the fluff, giving it a smarter appearance.
Who wears tan berets? ›The distinctive headgear of the 75th Ranger Regiment is the tan beret. The beret is a mark of distinction that brands the wearer as a proven warrior. The tan color is reminiscent of the leather caps worn by the original rangers of American heritage and lore.
What is Irish hat called? ›A flat cap is a rounded cap with a small stiff brim in front, originating in Britain and Ireland. The hat is known in Ireland as a paddy cap; in Scotland as a bunnet; in Wales as a Dai cap; and in the United States as an English cap, Irish cap, or flat cap.
What is Irish Special Forces called? ›The Army Ranger Wing (ARW) (Irish: Sciathán Fianóglach an Airm, "SFA") is the special operations force of the Irish Defence Forces, the military of Ireland.
What color beret to buy? ›If you're planning on wearing your beret regularly, matching it your hair color ensures that it always looks coordinated. Blondes should choose white or beige berets, brunettes should choose brown berets, and anyone with black hair should choose black berets. Wear a beret with a feminine outfit.
What is dos de cabillaud? ›French term or phrase: Dos de cabillaud. English translation: cod loin fillet/fillet of cod.
Is beret unisex? ›
Headgear for women and men
Oftenly worn by women from the 1930s, the beret is a unisex fashion accessory.
On top of their afros, Black Panthers often wore berets. The beret is a symbol of revolution. Historically, berets symbolize non-conformism, resistance, and militance; globally they are often worn as a part of military uniforms. Black Panther leaders Huey P.
Who wears berets in France? ›During the First World War, the beret was used by French Alpine soldiers. Then, after the war, and even if it remains associated with the army with its adoption by the Foreign Legion, it became a universal accessory: worn by civilians, both men and women, in red or green.
What is a peasant hat called? ›Berets. During the Renaissance, berets were strictly worn by peasants and those in poor social classes. The cap has since grown out of these humble beginnings and is now popular with fashionistas, revolutionaries, and the military.
What does each beret color mean? ›When appearing in public on parade, the berets are draped to the left side so that the insignia shows to observing dignitaries and the public. Light blue - Airborne Forces, Peacekeeping Forces. Black - Police Troops. Wine red - Police Special Troops. Bright Green - Border Guards.
What does the blue flash on a beret mean? ›United States Army Standard U.S. Army Blue Beret Flash. Criteria: Special Forces, Ranger, and Airborne units are the only Army personnel regulated to wear distinctive organizational beret flashes. All other units use a standard pale blue flash bordered with 13 white stars.
Who wears a green beret? ›In the U.S. armed forces, the green beret may be worn only by soldiers awarded the Special Forces Tab, signifying they have been qualified as Special Forces (SF) soldiers. The Special Forces beret is officially designated "beret, man's, wool, rifle green, army shade 297".
Are berets in style 2023? ›Now, they're adding another equally fun trend to the rotation: berets. According to Copenhagen Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2023 street style, residents are flocking to the quirky-cool hat.
How can I look cute in a beret? ›A classic Parisian look that's easy to dress up or down includes pairing a beret with a trench coat and a pair of jeans, sneakers, or heels depending on the mood. Contrary to French clichés, there's no need to carry a baguette and don a marinière or striped shirt (though you can if you want to).
How should a woman wear a beret? ›Un-tilted: Place the beret on top of your head with the headband about an inch above the brow line. Fold the beret brim under for a flat cap look that is more flush against your head. For a puffed-up look, untuck the brim of the beret, place it over your ears, and lightly pull it up from the top.
Who are the yellow berets? ›
Those who were selected as Public Health Service commissioned officers at the NIH were half-jokingly known as the Yellow Berets, fighting at the “Battle of Bethesda”, where the NIH is located (click here for a full history of the Yellow Berets as shared by the NIH History Office).
What does black beret mean in Army? ›Tan: Rangers have been sporting tan since the Army commandeered the black berets. Black: Soldiers across the Army wear these for special occasions - unless they are eligible to wear one of those above.
What color beret does civil affairs wear? ›U.S. ARMY 96TH CIVIL AFFAIRS BATTALION BERET FLASH AND/OR OVAL. The 96th Civil Affairs Battalion flash and oval feature a diagonal band on a green background to denote the organization's branch of service: purple and white are the primary and secondary branch colors for Civil Affairs.
What do different color berets mean? ›When appearing in public on parade, the berets are draped to the left side so that the insignia shows to observing dignitaries and the public. Light blue - Airborne Forces, Peacekeeping Forces. Black - Police Troops. Wine red - Police Special Troops. Bright Green - Border Guards.
What is the highest ranking beret? ›Army ranks explained
The highest-ranking Green Beret officer would be the major general (two stars) commanding the US Army Special Forces Command. He is the highest-ranking person commanding Special Forces. The next guy up the chain is Commander US Army Special Operations Command, a Lieutenant General (3 stars).
Delta Force is one of the most elite armed forces not only in the United States, but the entire world. Nonetheless, Delta Force keeps its command structure simple by having a single headquarters, unlike Green Berets.
What is the difference between SEALs and Green Berets? ›The Green Berets are the special forces unit of the U.S. Army while SEALs are a unit of the Navy. "SEAL" is derived from their capacity to operate at SEa, in the Air, and on Land – but it's their ability to work underwater that separates SEALs from most other military units in the world.
What color beret do Special Forces wear? ›Green: They call Special Forces soldiers Green Berets. Enough said. Tan: Rangers have been sporting tan since the Army commandeered the black berets. Black: Soldiers across the Army wear these for special occasions - unless they are eligible to wear one of those above.
What is the hardest Special Forces to get into? ›The most elite special operations forces in the U.S. are known as the Green Berets, and while that alone is enough to spark debate, there's great reasoning behind it. Training includes harsh mental and physical undertakings, including the school that's widely regarded as the hardest: Combat Diving.
Who wears red berets? ›Red berets are worn by the military police of many NATO and Commonwealth of Nations militaries.
What are the Tier 1 Special Forces? ›
Tier 1 units are also known as Special Missions Units. They are commanded directly by national-level Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). These units undertake missions that are critical, classified, and approved at the highest military level.
Is there anything more elite than Delta? ›SEAL Team 6, officially known as United States Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU), and Delta Force, officially known as 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (1st SFOD-D), are the most highly trained elite forces in the U.S. military.
Which is harder green beret or Ranger? ›While both of these units are highly elite in their own right, the amount of specialized training it takes to be a Ranger is less than what it takes to be a Green Beret.
Who is better trained SEALs or Delta Force? ›In the end, there's no real definitive answer to who is tougher between Navy SEALs and Delta Force - they're both badasses in my opinion - and if you favor either one over the other in terms of being tougher, that's pretty much like taking sides in an evenly matched Army vs. Navy football game.