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Hatmaking (Millinery)
How to Shape a Beret Download ArticleExplore this Article methods 1 Knowing How to Wear Your Beret Properly 2 Learning the Basics for Beret Shaping 3 Shaping a Military Uniform Beret Other Sections Questions & Answers Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Reviewed by Shaelynn Haning
Last Updated: May 12, 2025 Fact Checked
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This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 432,456 times.
Berets are a type of hat typically made of felt that have a flat appearance on top. Berets were popularized in France and Spain in the 19th century and are still widely associated with those cultures. They are also worn by various military and law enforcement personnel as part of their uniform in a folded style significantly different from their civilian counterparts. Although some organizations have begun issuing pre-shaped berets, many uniform berets still require special shaping by the wearer to produce a sharp look.
Shaping a Beret Cap
If you can’t properly fit a beret to your head as is, cut out the lining and use a disposable razor or small scissors to snip away any fuzz. Then, soak the beret in warm water, wring out the excess, and shape it to your head. Wear the beret hat on your head until dry.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Knowing How to Wear Your Beret Properly
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1 Learn your organization's dress code. Although the following can be used as a general guide for uniform berets, you will need to know any unique rules you may be required to follow.
If you're wearing a beret for fashion, there is really no limit to how it may be worn (as long as it's sitting on top of your head). The most popular casual method of wearing a beret is to wear it without a fold and tilted so that the brim sits diagonally across your forehead. Usually casual berets need no shaping other than fuzz removal.[1]XResearch source
2 Align your beret properly. This typically means to wear your beret with the brim straight across your forehead. The United States Army requires the edge to sit one inch above the eyebrows. If your organization requires a "flash" insignia, it should be aligned over your left eye.[2]XResearch source
Excess material will be folded and draped towards the right side of your head. This is typically why a beret must be shaped, as it will most likely resist holding this shape when brand new.[3]XResearch source
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3 Keep an appropriate hairstyle. Do not wear hairstyles that may distort the shape of the beret, such as high buns or ponytails. Your bangs should not extend below the front brim of the beret.[4]XResearch source Some organizations, such as the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, require that those with long hair keep it in a hairnet most closely matching their hair color.
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Learning the Basics for Beret Shaping
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1 Fit the beret to your head. If the beret is adjustable, place it on your head and adjust to the right size. Be sure to complete this step before getting the beret wet, since a wet beret can stretch or shrink. If you are unable to adjust your beret to fit snugly on your head, you may need one of a different size.
2 Remove the lining. Cut out the black inner lining of the beret, but be careful not to damage the fuzzy outer layer.[5]XResearch source Removing this lining will help you more easily shape the beret. Keep in mind that not all berets will have this component.
3 Remove any fuzz. This is typically done after you've finished shaping your beret. However, if your beret is already visible pilled before being shaped, shave it before wetting in addition to after it's dry. In the case of casual berets, this may be the only step you need to take. There are many ways to remove fuzz from your beret:
Use a disposable razor. This is the easiest and most common method. Gently run the razor in a single direction over your beret. Make sure not to go over the same spot multiple times, as you risk wearing down the material too much.
Carefully clip with scissors. This method is best if there are only a handful of obvious pills. Clip them off at the base, placing the scissors flush with the beret. Use cuticle scissors for the most precise control possible.
Burn off the fuzz with a lighter. Hold the lighter in place and carefully run your beret just over the flame without touching it. Instead of "shaving" the entire cap, go over just the areas with visible fuzz. Although this method can damage your beret if done improperly, it is sometimes considered to be the traditional way to de-pill a military beret. Exercise caution when using a lighter.[6]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Shaping a Military Uniform Beret
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1 Wet the beret. Soak the beret in warm water. If your beret has a flash, keep it away from the water as much as possible.
Note: Using hot water on the black rim will shrink the beret. If your beret is slightly too large, using hot water is a good idea. If your beret already fits your head snugly, be sure to avoid hot water.
2 Wring out the excess water. Get rid of all the extra water you can by gently wringing out the beret. It will still be damp, but make sure there is no more dripping water.
3 Shape the beret. Place the damp beret on your head. Pull the beret up to make it stand. If your organization uses the standard beret shape discussed in Method 1, pull all excess fabric down on the right side of your head by folding it with your hands. Repeat this action several times, making sure the fabric on top is completely smooth.
4 Allow the beret to dry on your head. Doing this will keep the beret from shrinking too much and will form the beret more closely to the exact shape of your head. If necessary, you may need to hold the fold down with one hand until it becomes secure. You may take the beret off if it's still slightly damp after a few hours.[7]XResearch source
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Question Is it a good idea to wear a beret in the shower to shape it? Community Answer Yes. Wearing it in a hot shower is a common way to wet it thoroughly. Just make sure to wash your hair before putting it on. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 37
Question Does the beret stink after washing it with water? Community Answer If a person sweats in their beret, soaking it will bring out the smell of the old sweat. However, washing the beret with soap/detergent will remove any odor. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 24 Helpful 51
Question What is the reason of forcing the cap down on the right side. What is the logic? Community Answer It is traditional to have it this way. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 24 Helpful 36
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Be very careful not to damage the beret when shaving or wringing it. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 1
Always be sure to wring out excess water before putting the beret on your head. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 2
Do not ring your beret out! Use a towel and pat it on. Ringing it out will cause wrinkles and will also stretch it out. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 8
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Warnings
If your beret has any leather, be careful not to submerge it or get it wet. Water can damage or stain leather that has not been specifically treated against it. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0
Keep in mind that not all berets are meant to be shaped by the wearer. Some berets supplied by the United States Army, for example, are recommended as dry clean only and should not be submerged. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2
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Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. This article has been viewed 432,456 times. 57 votes - 86% Co-authors: 20Updated: May 12, 2025 Views: 432,456 Categories: Hatmaking (Millinery)Article SummaryX
To shape a casual beret, start by placing the beret on your head to adjust it to the right size. Then, take off the beret and cut out the inner lining with a pair of scissors. Additionally, remove any fuzz by gently running a disposable razor over the fabric in a single direction. Afterwards, soak the beret in warm water, then wring out the excess water and place it back on your head. Pull the fabric with your fingers to shape the beret, then let it dry on your head to prevent shrinking and form to the exact shape of your head. To learn more, including how to shape a military uniform beret, scroll down.Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Joe Bryant
Apr 27, 2016
"Considering the fact that I have to wear a uniform on a weekly basis, this article was really helpful. You aren't exactly taught how to put on a beret in my high school. If you need to know anything, this wikiHow page has it."..." more
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Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner Co-authors: 20Updated: May 12, 2025 Views: 432,45686% of readers found this article helpful. 57 votes - 86% Click a star to add your vote
Joe Bryant
Apr 27, 2016
"Considering the fact that I have to wear a uniform on a weekly basis, this article was really helpful. You aren't exactly taught how to put on a beret in my high school. If you need to know anything, this wikiHow page has it."..." more
Andrew Smith
Jan 10, 2017
"I just purchased a military style beret. Needed to know how to wear it properly so I can look my coolest. The information you gave me helped a lot. Thank you. "..." more
Anonymous
Jun 30, 2017
"Pictures helped a lot, and the timings (how long I needed to keep it on)."
Dean Irwin
Jul 5, 2016
"Great guide! I was unaware of the necessary procedures to shape a beret."
Somodatta Sahu
Oct 28, 2017
"Cutting the inner lining is a really good idea." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Knowing How to Wear Your Beret Properly 2 Learning the Basics for Beret Shaping 3 Shaping a Military Uniform Beret Other Sections Questions & Answers Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Reviewed by Shaelynn Haning 
How toMeasure Beret Size 
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Reviewed by: Shaelynn Haning Professional Tailor & Business Owner This article was reviewed by Shaelynn Haning. Shaelynn Haning is a Tailor & Business Owner based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shaelynn is the founder of the highest-rated and most-reviewed alterations and tailoring service in Oklahoma, Tallgrass Tailor, employing a team of skilled craftsmen and women from across the country and the world. Shaelynn is a member of the State of Oklahoma Education Careers and Technologies Board and a member of both the Custom Tailors and Designers Association and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. She is the host of The Sew Show with Shae, an entertaining and educational sewing channel posting weekly videos on YouTube. Shaelynn earned her BS in Apparel Design and Product Development from Marist College. This article has been viewed 432,456 times. 57 votes - 86% Co-authors: 20 Updated: May 12, 2025 Views: 432,456 Categories: Hatmaking (Millinery) Article SummaryX
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1 Learn your organization's dress code. Although the following can be used as a general guide for uniform berets, you will need to know any unique rules you may be required to follow. 
2 Align your beret properly. This typically means to wear your beret with the brim straight across your forehead. The United States Army requires the edge to sit one inch above the eyebrows. If your organization requires a "flash" insignia, it should be aligned over your left eye.[2] 
3 Keep an appropriate hairstyle. Do not wear hairstyles that may distort the shape of the beret, such as high buns or ponytails. Your bangs should not extend below the front brim of the beret.[4] Some organizations, such as the United Kingdom's Royal Air Force, require that those with long hair keep it in a hairnet most closely matching their hair color. Advertisement 
1 Fit the beret to your head. If the beret is adjustable, place it on your head and adjust to the right size. Be sure to complete this step before getting the beret wet, since a wet beret can stretch or shrink. If you are unable to adjust your beret to fit snugly on your head, you may need one of a different size. 
2 Remove the lining. Cut out the black inner lining of the beret, but be careful not to damage the fuzzy outer layer.[5] Removing this lining will help you more easily shape the beret. Keep in mind that not all berets will have this component. 
3 Remove any fuzz. This is typically done after you've finished shaping your beret. However, if your beret is already visible pilled before being shaped, shave it before wetting in addition to after it's dry. In the case of casual berets, this may be the only step you need to take. There are many ways to remove fuzz from your beret: 
1 Wet the beret. Soak the beret in warm water. If your beret has a flash, keep it away from the water as much as possible. 
2 Wring out the excess water. Get rid of all the extra water you can by gently wringing out the beret. It will still be damp, but make sure there is no more dripping water. 
3 Shape the beret. Place the damp beret on your head. Pull the beret up to make it stand. If your organization uses the standard beret shape discussed in Method 1, pull all excess fabric down on the right side of your head by folding it with your hands. Repeat this action several times, making sure the fabric on top is completely smooth. 
4 Allow the beret to dry on your head. Doing this will keep the beret from shrinking too much and will form the beret more closely to the exact shape of your head. If necessary, you may need to hold the fold down with one hand until it becomes secure. You may take the beret off if it's still slightly damp after a few hours.[7] Advertisement 
Community Answer Yes. Wearing it in a hot shower is a common way to wet it thoroughly. Just make sure to wash your hair before putting it on. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 37 
Community Answer If a person sweats in their beret, soaking it will bring out the smell of the old sweat. However, washing the beret with soap/detergent will remove any odor. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 24 Helpful 51 
Community Answer It is traditional to have it this way. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 24 Helpful 36 