It’s the epitome of Parisian chic. Thrust into the sartorial spotlight courtesy of Hollywood icon Faye Dunaway circa Bonnie and Clyde and '60s screen siren Brigitte Bardot, the wool topper instantly became a fashionable hit.
With connotations of France (it’s a stereotype which lies alongside baguettes and frogs legs), the sixties (freckle-faced model Twiggy famously championed the trend) and elegance ('Moi?').
The quintessentially French accessory notably experienced a re-run in the nineties, as cult classic Clueless, introduced us to Cher Horowtiz. Decked in head-to-toe tartan, the idolised American high-school student taught us how to achieve peak chic, armed with thigh-high boots, yellow plaid co-ords and a fluffy pen.
And the beret has infiltrated the fashion scene once more and instead of embodying the spirit of a try-hard artiste/the high-school elite, the beret has now earned its spot atop the heads of Insta-bloggers.
And it’s no wonder, as our desire to revisit the past is greater than ever before. Not only are we still excessively regramming ‘90s Kate Moss, we’re adopting countless retro gone-bys from Champion hoodies to lycra leggings.
No longer is it enough to pay tribute to bygone eras through old-school tumblr pages and disposable-effect filters, as fashion is readily embracing forgotten gems.
Just look at the latest release of Jackie for instance, the fash pack instantly seized the opportunity to imitate the former First Lady six decades later, thriving on her iconic Chanel suit and tendency for cold-shoulder dresses. Evidence that we’re still seeking inspo from the late greats.
And the beret is no different, as we desperately attempt to achieve nonchalant chic with the slight tilt of the Parisian headgear, a sartorial nod to the bygone French staple.
So channel the look this season with the help of the street style set.
Exhibit A - how the microtrend has taken on a whole new meaning:
Beret - Grazia
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In brighter weather, reflect the mood with pastel hues. Compliment sky blue with camel tones and it's a look you can carry through to summer (when it eventually returns).
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You needn't opt for a black beret. Don bold red with complimentary tones such as camel suede and snakeskin boots. Remember, there is no greater accompaniment to the beret than a turtleneck.
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A beret may be a classic accessory but you don't necessarily have to style it with tailored pieces. Channel the sixties with a graphic tee, jeans and a faux-fur.
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The beret works best with monochrome get-ups. So dig out your winter loafers and most envy-inducing black coat for a trans-seasonal look.
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Tackle two trends in one and pair your beret with a cold-shoulder top. Finish with a PVC mini and a bold lip. One word - chic.
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Fashion influencer Miroslava Duma drew attention to the beret as she paired the Parisian headgear with a minimal get-up. Channel the look with a tailored white coat and minimal accessories.
Main image courtesy of blogger Paulina Steposwka. Make sure to follow her on Instagram.
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