Man cannot live by baseball caps alone (god forbid). That’s why the sophisticated gent knows that a well-selected hat can spice up a fellow’s wardrobe from the top down. Take some of these classics from Bailey, which can help you look stylin’ without breaking the bank:

The venerable Goorin Bros. also has a wide range of sporty and handsome chapeaus for the modern gentleman:

If you’re really serious about your headgear, you can splurge for a classic high end brand like a Borsalino. But I find Bailey and Goorin Bros. cover similar styles as that admittedly great brand while still leaving some drinking money in your pocket. Plus a good hat is a bit like a potato chip: bet you can’t buy just one. A hat will change the way your entire outfit appears and having several in the repertoire is a fine idea for maximum versatility. And with the cooler weather coming along, it’s a natural time to debut your new lids while keeping your melon warm.

The best place I’ve seen for Bailey on the Web is San Diego’s Village Hat Shop, which has a great selection and free delivery for orders over $75 clams. (For whatever reason, you can only shop Bailey’s current seasonal collection at their own site and not their full range–odd and none too clever.) In contrast, Goorin Bros.’ site is excellent and all you need to buy one of their products: you can shop it direct and there is a ton of stuff to browse, both old & new. Or you can visit one of Goorin’s many shops across North America and try them on in person.

Either way, pick a lid that suits your own inimitable style and soon when folks see you comin’ they’ll be saying: Hats off to ya, you stylish devil!