The beret has long been an emblem of effortless Parisian chic, but while it remains a timeless nod to French elegance, this versatile accessory can easily drift into the realm of cliché if not styled with a modern twist. As originally noted by Alyssa Rotunno, the key to rocking a beret today lies in steering clear of the predictable and embracing contemporary styling methods.
A Brief History of the Beret
The beret’s roots trace back to the Pyrenees region of France in the 19th century, where it began as a practical piece of pastoral wear. Over time, it evolved into a military staple in the early 20th century before becoming a symbol of artistic and intellectual circles. Iconic figures like Pablo Picasso, Brigitte Bardot, and Catherine Deneuve made the beret synonymous with bohemian and avant-garde style. However, as fashion trends have evolved, hats have generally fallen out of favor in everyday wardrobes, making the beret a rare yet striking accessory when styled correctly.
Modern Beret Styling: Breaking the Molds
Despite its storied history, the beret should not be confined to the realm of stereotypes. With a bit of creativity, this classic hat can be the centerpiece of a contemporary outfit that feels both fresh and stylish. Whether you’re aiming for a polished look or a more casual vibe, there are numerous ways to incorporate a beret into your wardrobe without feeling like you’re walking through the streets of Paris in a striped shirt and ballet flats.
Celebrity stylist Catherine Bibeau suggests pairing the beret with unexpected pieces like plaid mini skirts or denim, creating a juxtaposition that feels current. She also recommends complementing the beret with laid-back footwear options such as loafers or ballet flats, which add an element of ease to the ensemble.
To help you navigate the world of beret styling with confidence, we’ve put together 12 outfit ideas that will inspire you to rethink this classic accessory.
1. Menswear-Inspired Elegance
If you’re new to berets, ease into the trend by pairing one with a monochrome tailored suit. A faux leather beret adds a contemporary edge to this traditionally masculine look, bringing a sense of modernity and chic sophistication.

2. Play with Mixed Patterns
Mixing patterns can breathe new life into your wardrobe, offering a dynamic and visually engaging outfit. Start with a simple base, such as a bright blue shirt, and gradually layer in patterns and textures. A beret in a complementary color ties the look together, making it both playful and refined.

3. The Classic Black-and-White Ensemble
Let your beret take center stage with a monochrome black-and-white outfit. A printed beret with fascinator detailing adds a touch of drama, while a voluminous skirt and simple white blouse keep the look balanced. This is an easy, chic style that can be recreated with staples already in your closet.

4. Rockstar Off-Duty
Channel your inner rockstar by combining Parisian elements with edgy, rebellious pieces. A beret paired with a sheer-sleeved top and matching trousers embodies a cool, off-duty vibe. The modern floral print adds just the right amount of softness to balance the look.

5. All-Black Confidence
An all-black ensemble is timeless and a great starting point if you’re hesitant about incorporating a beret into your style. Add motorcycle boots to give the outfit a bold, edgy flair, making the beret a seamless addition to your look.

6. Bohemian Babe
For a more laid-back, bohemian aesthetic, pair a beret with a baggy trench coat in a bold color like mustard yellow. Layer it over a neutral base and finish with chunky block heels. The beret adds structure to the otherwise relaxed outfit, creating a perfect balance.

7. Neon Pop
Confidence is key when styling a beret, and nothing screams confidence more than neon. Whether your beret is the star of the show or a supporting player, pairing it with other bold colors and textures exudes a fashion-forward vibe that’s impossible to ignore.

8. Updated Preppy Style
Preppy fashion has evolved, embracing more subtle tones and luxurious fabrics. Ditch the traditional black beret for a brown one and pair it with a cropped coat and a neutral-toned skirt. This outfit merges classic preppy elements with a modern twist.

9. Eclectic Sophistication
Elevate your classic beret by pairing it with an eclectic ensemble. The beige beret acts as a neutral base, allowing the rest of the outfit to stand out while still adding a touch of sophistication. This look is perfect for those who love to mix and match styles.

10. Bold in Red
For the bold fashionista, a bright red beret paired with a matching dress and black knee-high boots makes a striking statement, especially in the fall. Add layers with jackets, purses, and tights to create depth and dimension in your outfit.

11. Oversized Everything
Embrace the trend of oversized clothing by pairing your beret with an oversized sweater or coat. This look is all about comfort and style, with the beret adding a structured element to the relaxed fit of the clothing.

12. Co-Ord Chic
Nothing says effortless chic like a matching set. Pairing a coordinated outfit with a beret, classic loafers, and matching tights creates a look that’s both polished and easy to wear. It’s the ultimate cool-girl ensemble that’s perfect for any occasion.
