A tweed flat cap is one of the most recognisable pieces of British country clothing. Warm, hard-wearing and effortlessly stylish, it works for shooting, walking, driving and the pub. This guide covers the different flat cap styles, how to measure your head for the right size, and how to wear a tweed cap with confidence.
Flat Cap Styles Explained
- Flat cap: the classic style, with a stiff peak and a fitted crown that slopes down to the front.
- Newsboy or baker boy cap: a fuller, rounder crown, often made from eight panels and finished with a button on top. See our baker boy hats guide.
- Ivy or Gatsby cap: another name for a flat cap with a slim, streamlined shape.
- Driving cap: a lighter, softer style that is also popular in the countryside.
Names vary between brands, so check the product description and photos to see the shape.
Why Choose Tweed?
Tweed is a woven wool fabric that has been associated with the British countryside for generations. It is warm, naturally weather-resistant and durable, and it develops character with age. Colours such as brown, green, grey and heather blend well with country clothing and are practical for shooting.
Look for tweed caps with a smooth lining for comfort and a flexible peak that keeps its shape. Our tweed jacket guide explains more about tweed fabric and patterns.
How to Measure for a Flat Cap
- Use a soft tape measure and wrap it around your head, just above your eyebrows and ears.
- Keep the tape level all the way round and snug but not tight.
- Read the measurement in centimetres.
- Compare it with the size chart for the cap you are buying.
Cap sizes typically range from small to extra large, covering roughly 55 cm to 61 cm, although each brand differs. If you are between sizes, go up if you plan to wear a thin hat liner or have thick hair, and go down if you like a close fit. Always check the size chart on the product page.
How to Wear a Flat Cap
- Sit it level: the cap should sit straight, with the peak just above your eyebrows.
- Match it to your outfit: a tweed cap pairs well with a waxed or waterproof jacket, a tweed jacket, a gilet or a knitted jumper.
- Keep colours coordinated: choose a tweed with tones that pick up your jacket or shirt.
- Casual or smart: wear it with jeans and boots for everyday style, or with a tweed jacket for something smarter.
Flat Caps for Shooting and Country Wear
A tweed cap is a traditional choice on shoot days, as the peak helps shade your eyes and shed light rain. On wet days, consider a waterproof hat or a cap with a weather-resistant treatment. Our pheasant shooting season guide covers what to wear for the whole outfit.
How to Care for a Tweed Cap
- Brush gently with a soft clothes brush to remove dust and dried mud.
- Spot clean with a damp cloth and avoid machine washing.
- If it gets wet, shape it and allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat.
- Store it somewhere it will keep its shape rather than squashed in a bag.
Where to Buy Tweed Caps and Flat Caps
Explore our full range of hats, caps and headwear, our hats and caps and our men's tweed collection. For ladies' styles, see women's hats, caps and headwear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size flat cap do I need?
Measure around your head just above your eyebrows and ears, then compare it with the size chart for the cap you want.
Is a flat cap the same as a baker boy cap?
Not exactly. A flat cap is slimmer, while a baker boy or newsboy cap has a fuller, rounder crown, often with a button on top.
Can you wear a tweed cap in the rain?
A tweed cap sheds light rain, but for heavy rain a waterproof hat is a better choice.
For more advice, visit The Field Guide.
