Top hats: 7 of the best baker boy caps

Did you know that according to history books, in 1571, in a bid to boost the English and Irish wool trade, Queen Elizabeth I passed a law declaring all males over the age of six had to wear caps made of wool on Sundays, or risk a fine?

Fast forward nearly 450 years and while weekly hat wearing is no longer a legal obligation, the law is credited with popularising peaked caps, which are now having their umpteenth fashion revival.

Cute but cosy, baker boy caps have become a fashion influencer favourite, and this season’s styles are cooler than ever.

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We’re not sure whether Elizabeth I would approve, but classic wool designs have been replaced by all manner of textiles and trims.

If you’re loving the AW19 heritage trend, a tweed baker boy is what you need to go with your Crombie coat and check tailoring.

For touchable textures to fit with the Seventies trend, look for a velvet or cord cap in a warm autumnal shade.

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Looking for something a bit more modern? Give classic black an edgy spin with a faux leather hat or fur trim.

Of course, animal print remains a massive trend for autumn/winter, and there are lots of leopard styles in the shops, too.

Here’s our pick of the best baker boy buys…

Joe Browns Very Velvet Baker Boy, £18; Chunky Knit Jumper, £40

Dune Fariss Black Checked Baker Boy Hat, £30

Charlotte Simone Baker Boy Hat, £55

Miss Selfridge Black PU Baker Boy Hat, £14

River Island Cream Cord Baker Boy Hat, £18

Lipsy Baker Boy Hat, £18, Next

M&Co Animal Print Baker Boy Hat, £14