MANCHESTER STYLE GURU HYPES THE BENEFITS OF HATS

According to fashion reporter Simon Donohue, the hat is a big deal. He told his viewers on the Manchester Evening News:

“IF you want to have a hit get a hat. That's the theory of Stockport's Hat Works museum, which this weekend launched an exhibition entitled “Playing To The Tune.” It features an array of headwear and explores how music has influenced people to wear certain hats. It draws on examples from Opera, the Salvation Army, music festivals, the 1960s and looks at how music has influenced the hat wearing of its fans.”

1. All Around My Hat
A hat is just about the most visible item of clothing you'll ever wear.

Whereas odd socks will do only limited damage to your overall "look", the wrong hat will render ridiculous even the most expensive designer get up.

Remember to build your outfit "All Around My Hat" - as sung by Steeleye Span - when deciding what to wear.

2. The Hatful of Hollow
Not, on this occasion, arguably the best album ever produced by Manc miserablists The Smiths, but the way in which a long tall hat can provide massive benefits to the vertically challenged.

Policeman have been on to the scam for years, putting cavernous helmets on their heads in order to tower above the criminal fraternity.

Try a topper and feel, err, top!

3. Take Hat and Party
The stylish trilby of Sinatra fame is still a safe bet if you want to make a dramatic entrance.

4. Hat's The Way I Like It
Flamboyant disco Desmond's should think nothing of donning something flamboyant like a fedora.

Alternatively, why not tap into Boy George's penchant for weird and wonderful designer hats?

You'll turn other people's heads, even if your hat will be so heavy that you can't turn your own!

5. Leopard skin Pillbox Hat
Need I say more?

6. Hats Off To Roy Harper
One of Manchester's most legendary folk rock heroes epitomizes the hippy idyll and floppy hats.

Think druids and drug-inspired patterns on a head-topper which would make a wizard gush with pride.

7. Hats Off To Larry
That'll be the cozy and comfortable "granddad-style cap" which looked equally at home on the head of Otis Reading or Brandon Flowers.

8. You Can Keep Your Hat On
Not strictly true. Tom Jones's hip-swaying instruction might work in the bedroom, but some of Manchester's more sophisticated nightspots take a dim view of headgear.

Better to check the door police before accessorizing with the latest Burberry print chav lad.

9. Who The Cap Fits
Let Dem Wear It: Or to put it less succinctly than the late reggae legend, skinny white kids don't look cool in Rasta hats. No, really.

10. Men Without Hats
There'll always be some ordinary blokes who simply don't suit a hat.

If the cap doesn't fit, why bother wearing it?”

”Playing to the Tune” will be on display at the Hat Works, Stockport, until July 22.

Entry is free and there are fun activities for all visitors. For more information contact Hat Works on 0845 833 0975.

Men style writer Simon Donohue