Baseball caps have been around since the mid 1800s, when the New York Knickerbockers debuted them as part of their team apparel. Aside from a shortened bill in the 1970s, the design and style of baseball caps hasn’t changed much since then, and they’re worn by players of every sport, and by everyone else as well.
A Twist on Design
A new trend in baseball caps has hit the scene within the past 10 years, starting with rap artists and working it’s way out into mainstream society from there: the flat bill. Often accompanied by a sticker, the flat-billed baseball cap is a commonplace item these days, but not everyone is buying off on it. In the debate between flat and curved bill caps, everyone has a preference.
The flat bill look seems to be preferred by the younger crowd, and it’s a look that men over 40 would be hard pressed to pull off. The exception to this rule, of course, lies with the pros. Flat bill caps can be seen out on the Major League baseball field these days, with each player seeming to have a preference for just how curvy their cap should be. The fact that the pros have embraced this trend is a good indication that the look probably isn’t going to fade out any time soon.
A Timeless Classic
If you don’t feel that you’re the type of person who would be comfortable with the flat bill look, no worries. Like your favorite pair of blue jeans, the curve bill baseball cap is a timeless classic that isn’t looking to be replaced. As long as the back half isn’t made of vinyl mesh, you really can’t go wrong with a classic baseball cap.
Pick your favorite team logo, or the logo of any company, brand, or organization you support, and you’ve got yourself a hat you can live in 365. The flat bill option isn’t one that matches everyone’s personal style, but the standby curved bill is. So, if you’re on the fence about which one to choose, stick with what works and go with the classic curved bill.
Safe Middle Ground
Baseball cap bills are not set in stone, so it’s not like you’re making a final decision when you purchase a hat. You can always bend your bill to curve more, or work it out flatter if you need to. Aside from flat bills, most hats are sold with a slightly curved bill that can be molded to be more curved, if you want. Wrap it around a baseball with a rubber band, and you’ll get that perfect classic look. If you find a logo you love, but the curve of the hat is not exactly right, go ahead and work it out. It’s easier to go curvier than it is to go in the other direction, so when in doubt, go with the flatter of two options, which serves as a safe middle ground.
I agree I feel like a curved brim is a safer look and is actually coming back into style. It really depends on what you are going to wear it with and what setting you are in. I think both can be viable options.