How to Style Novelty Hats for Brunch and Day Drinking

Brunch hats turn bottomless mimosas and day drinking into photo-worthy moments when you choose the right novelty style and keep the rest of your outfit simple.

Updated 12 Aug 2026 5 min read 6 sections

Lies Collective aperol spritz hat — Aperol spritz hatAU$33.00Image from the merchant

Brunch hats are the easiest way to own the table at bottomless mimosas or rooftop day drinking without looking like you tried too hard. A statement novelty hat like an aperol spritz hat or playful animal hats gives you instant personality while keeping your outfit low-effort.

Why Novelty Brunch Hats Work for Day Drinking

Day drinking demands a different energy than evening cocktails. You need something fun that photographs well in natural light but still lets you move between mimosa bars, outdoor patios, and group hangs without feeling ridiculous. Novelty hats hit that sweet spot because they do the styling work for you.

Lies Collective octopus with a top hat — Octopus with a top hatAU$33.00Image from the merchant

A well-chosen hat gives you a cohesive look even when you roll up in jeans and a tee. The octopus with a top hat or spritz hats become the anchor piece, so the rest of your outfit can stay simple and comfortable. You also skip the accessories guessing game: when your hat is the statement, you don’t need layers of jewelry or a complicated bag situation.

For group brunches, everyone remembers the person in the standout hat. It’s a low-stakes conversation starter that works whether you’re meeting friends of friends or claiming your spot at a packed bottomless brunch spot.

Choosing the Right Novelty Hat Style

Not every quirky hat survives three hours of mimosas and huevos rancheros. Here’s what separates Instagram bait from genuinely wearable styles.

Drink-themed hats like the aperol hat work because they’re on-theme without being too literal. You’re already day drinking, so leaning into the aesthetic makes sense. These styles usually feature structured designs that hold their shape through multiple rounds.

Animal and character hats bring playful energy without requiring context. An octopus with a top hat reads as whimsical at a garden brunch or beach club. Animal hats in general give you range: a teddy style works for cozy café hangs, while something more sculptural fits rooftop bars.

Lies Collective marc jacobs teddy hat — Marc jacobs teddy hatAU$33.00Image from the merchant

Designer collaborations like the marc jacobs teddy hat split the difference between novelty and fashion. You get the fun factor with a silhouette that feels intentional rather than random. These tend to use better materials that don’t wilt or lose shape halfway through brunch.

We recommend starting with brunch hats that have some structure. Floppy or overly large styles photograph well in one angle but become a nuisance when you’re trying to eat, hug friends, or move indoors. Check the latest price to see current options that balance statement impact with real wearability.

Building Your Outfit Around the Hat

The hat is the hero, so everything else should step back. Here’s the formula that works whether you’re doing bottomless mimosas or a backyard hang.

Keep your base neutral: white tee, black jeans, denim shorts, or a simple slip dress let the hat pop without competing colors
Match your formality: spritz hats pair well with linen pants or a breezy midi dress; sculptural styles like the octopus with a top hat can handle slightly dressier brunches
Skip loud patterns: if your hat is already a conversation piece, ditching prints and logos keeps the look cohesive instead of chaotic
Go easy on accessories: small hoops or a delicate necklace are plenty; you don’t need statement jewelry when your head is doing the talking
Choose practical footwear: sandals, sneakers, or block-heel mules keep you comfortable for hours of standing and mingling

Lies Collective lies sticker — Lies stickerAU$9.00Image from the merchant

If you’re heading to a themed brunch, the outfit formula flips slightly. A Kentucky Derby brunch or garden party gives you permission to layer in a printed dress or bolder color, but even then the hat should remain the focal point. You can add a playful lies sticker to your water bottle or bag for extra personality without overdoing the outfit itself.

For inspiration on pairing hats with brunch-specific styling, this fascinator tutorial walks through building a look that balances whimsy with wearability.

Sizing and Fit for All-Day Comfort

A novelty hat only works if you can wear it for three-plus hours without a headache. Most brunch hats come in one-size-fits-most designs with adjustable features, but here’s what to check before you commit.

Interior bands: look for a soft grosgrain or elastic band that sits flush against your forehead without pinching. Hats with raw seams or stiff interiors start to dig in after the first mimosa.

Weight distribution: styles like the aperol spritz hat with sculptural elements should have a balanced base. If all the weight sits on one side, you’ll spend the whole brunch adjusting it.

Ventilation: foam or solid plastic hats trap heat fast. Look for designs with small gaps or breathable materials, especially if you’re brunching outdoors in warm weather.

Most novelty hat brands size around a 22 to 23-inch head circumference. If you’re between sizes or have thick hair, grab the code and check the store’s return policy before ordering.

Care and Storage Tips

Novelty hats take up space and can lose their shape if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep them looking fresh for your next brunch.

Store flat or on a hook: crushing sculptural elements ruins the silhouette; a simple wall hook or hat stand preserves the structure
Spot-clean only: most novelty materials don’t survive a washing machine; use a damp cloth for spills and let air-dry completely
Avoid extreme heat: leaving hats in a hot car warps foam and melts glue; bring them inside after outdoor events
Transport carefully: if you’re traveling to brunch, a large tote or dedicated hat box prevents crushing in transit

If your hat has removable elements like pins or toppers, take them off before storage to avoid snagging or bending.

Where to Find the Best Novelty Brunch Hats

Their designs balance Instagram appeal with actual comfort, and the materials hold up through multiple wears. You’ll find everything from drink-themed styles like the aperol hat to character-driven pieces like animal hats.

The store currently offers 10% off sitewide, which stacks well if you’re buying for a group brunch or want to grab a few styles to rotate. Check current pricing and grab the code before your next event.

Other options include independent makers on Etsy for custom work or vintage shops for one-off finds, but you trade convenience and return policies for uniqueness. For most brunches, a ready-to-wear novelty hat from a dedicated brand gives you the best balance of style, comfort, and reliability.

Questions

Can you wear novelty brunch hats to any restaurant?

Most casual brunch spots and outdoor patios welcome novelty hats, but check the vibe first. High-end restaurants or formal dining rooms may feel too stuffy for statement headwear. Rooftop bars, bottomless brunch venues, and garden parties are always safe bets.

How do you keep a novelty hat on during brunch?

Look for hats with adjustable interior bands or built-in combs that anchor to your hair. Bobby pins work as backup for lightweight styles. Avoid hats that rely only on friction if you plan to move around or lean in for photos.

What's the difference between an aperol spritz hat and an aperol hat?

An aperol spritz hat typically features both the drink glass and garnish details like orange slices, while an aperol hat may focus on the brand colors or logo. Both work for day drinking; the spritz version tends to be more sculptural and photo-ready.

Are animal hats too costumey for adult brunches?

Not if you style them intentionally. Pair animal hats with a simple, neutral outfit so the hat reads as a statement piece rather than part of a full costume. Designer versions like the marc jacobs teddy hat have elevated silhouettes that feel more fashion-forward than dress-up.

Can you reuse novelty brunch hats for other events?

Absolutely. Drink-themed hats work for happy hours, pool parties, and bachelorette weekends. Character styles like the octopus with a top hat translate to festivals, beach days, or casual hangouts. The key is choosing a versatile design that isn't tied to one specific occasion.