beret news and archive

Item of the week: the beret

What it is: The beret is a staple piece of headwear that originated in France, where the commercial production of the design began in the 17th century. The style became a common fashion accessory among women in the region around the 1920s, but later entered into the mass fashion world thanks to Coco Chanel, who was cited as the first designer to...

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Beret-mania as fashion ditches beanie for French classic

What do Rihanna, Che Guevara nostalgics, and the Kardashian clan all have in common? They are all bonkers about berets. The Frenchest of hats is now also the hippest, with makers struggling to keep up with demand from everyone from pop stars to the crowned heads of Europe. Since Dior's Maria Grazia Chiuri sent out every one of her 68 models...

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In-depth: The Basque beret, from peasant cap to 'emblem of France'

The beret has come a long way since its humble beginnings as the headgear of choice for pelota players in the Basque country, becoming a must-have accessory as far afield as China. The jaunty topper preferred by Che Guevara and Pablo Picasso added a saucy touch to Monica Lewinsky's look in a famous photo of her getting a hug from then president...