Ophelia de Vere

  It’s the one accessory that can do it all: the hat. For some, it functions as an almost royal status symbol and a timeless marker of elegance. The fashion-bold use it as a striking statement piece. Others value it as a practical companion—protection from wind and weather, bad hair days, and a lack of hairstyling inspiration. And yet, when it comes to headwear, things remain surprisingly minimalist around here—if not downright bareheaded. So where have all the hats gone?  There was a time when no one would have dreamed of stepping outside without a hat. Headwear was a matter of decorum, as noted in Debrett’s Etiquette for Girls , the authority on modern manners. Granted, these are British voices speaking—but not without reason. The UK boasts a flourishing millinery guild, Royal Ascot remains an annual catwalk of elaborate headpieces, and royal dress codes still require women to wear hats at official daytime events until 6 p.m. Even Google confirms the imbalance: a search for...