There is a great deal of argument over what makes a wizard. Some say it's his beard. Others his robes, or the twinkle in his eye. But if you ask me, there's nothing more singular to a wizard's style than his hat.
Wizard's hats come in all types, from tall and pointed (one of my favorite looks), to low and floppy, and everywhere in between.
Though there is no particular feature that distinguishes a wizardly hat from a non-wizardly one, they do tend to follow certain trends in design, featuring patterns that reflect the magical arts, whether arcane symbols or elements of nature, mythical beasts or other otherworldly motifs. Some are plain, or abstractly patterned, but made in unusual shapes that lend their wearer that mystic, mysterious, majestic air that wizards of all stripes prize so dearly.
If a wizard's hat is what you're looking for, and you're not sure where to look, this actionable guide is an excellent place to start. And if you happen to be looking for a particular style that you can't quite find, feel free to reach out in the comments below.
Now, let us begin our look at some extraordinarily wizardly hats.
Wizard's Hats (& Where to Find Them)
As you embark on the search for the perfect cover for your sorcerous dome, it's worth keeping in mind that you need not subscribe to any stereotypes to achieve a sufficiently wizardly look. There are those who would have you believe that unless you were alabaster-skinned and heavily wrinkled, blessed with a downy white beard and expressive long fingers, you'd have no chance looking the part. I prefer a more inclusive approach.
Remember, wizards - by that name and a myriad others - have lived and died in every corner of the globe, in every age since the dawn of man itself. A wizard's costume is not a uniform. In fact, it's the very opposite. A non-uniform, as it were. If one wizard looked like every other, why, they'd have missed the point entirely.
Being wizardly means evoking an air of mysticism, of mystery, sagacity, and a distinctly incompatible blend of gravitas and whimsy. Finding the hat most suitable to that lofty goal is no mean feat, and the answer is different for everyone. Your options are numerous, none better or worse than any of the others. What I'm going to do is show them to you. Make sure you look at them all before making a decision.
The Iconic Conical Wizard's Hat
Conical wizard hats have a timeless appeal that transcends generations. Their iconic design, with a tall pointed cone and wide brim, instantly evokes the image of a wise and powerful wizard. Synonymous with magic and mystery, they add an air of mystique to any costume or outfit and can instantly transform the wearer into a mythical character, sure to captivate and inspire.
Curled Brim Witch Hat from Felt Wicked
Sage Witch Hat from Felt Wicked
Storm Witch Hat from Felt Wicked
Dark Red 18-Inch Floral Straw Witch Hat from Cottage Witch Society
Large Straw Witch Hat With Ribbon - 22-Inch Brim from Cottage Witch Society
Yellow Sunflower with Neutral Foliage and Gold Ribbon 18-Inch Floral Straw Witch Hat from Cottage Witch Society
Cotton Witch Hat from Armstreet
The Soft Pointed Cap
The Phrygian Cap or Liberty Cap
The Kufi Hat
The Top Hat
The Yemen Madhalla Hat
The Skullcap
The Dutch Muts Hat
The Newsboy Hat
The Bowler
The Norwich Castle Hat
The Tyrolean Hat
The Fulani Hat
The Yoruba Beaded Crown
The Kalfak Embroidered Cap
Now remember, this list is far from exhaustive, but you should by now have a lay of the land and a better idea of what it is you're after. If you think there's something that ought to be on this list that isn't, be sure to comment below.
Check back for more wizardly hats from Madame Humphrey.