Grace Kelly: Queen of the Turban Hat

As a Hollywood starlet and later the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly was the epitome of understated class. She wore fabulous headwear designed by the era's leading milliners not only at state events and as a leading lady in Hitchcock films, but also as a young mother at play with her children.

There are countless photos of Grace in headscarves, wide brim hats, and cocktail hats of all shapes and sizes. My personal favorite are her stunning turban hats, which always coordinated with her elegant outfits.

Below I've featured just a small sample--it was hard to narrow them down! Scroll down to watch the video of how I've emulated her timeless style.

Grace Kelly in her turban hats

At a press conference in Ottowa, before having lunch with the Prime Minister of Canada.

Receiving a medal of honor in Paris, 1959.

At the premier of 'Crime and Punishment' in Paris, 1975.

At the Committee for Scientific Exploration, in Rome, Italy, December 1970.

Meeting oceanographer Jacques Cousteau and his wife Simone in Monaco City, 1970.

Boating with family in Monaco, 1967.

In Monaco at the Karting Club opening in November 1962.

At the inauguration of the 'Baby Dior' shop in Paris, 1967.

In Nice, France with Princess Benedikte of Denmark in 1966.

At the Henley Regatta in August 1965, in Henley, UK.

Getting off the plane at Idlewild Airport (now JFK) with husband Prince Rainier. You can see a color version of this outfit here.

Grace preparing before her civil marriage ceremony to Prince Rainier in 1956.

Same event, chatting with her older sister Peggy.

In Washington, D.C., on a visit to President JFK and First Lady Jackie.

Above and below: Grace and Rainier at the reception for their civil wedding.

The Modest Outfit

Inspired by these Grace Kelly turban hat looks, I've put together an ensemble of vintage accessories, care of my thrifting habit. The black Lord & Taylor silk-satin 1950s turban was an Etsy find. I've styled it over a black cotton cap for added coverage, and paired it with a navy ponte knit fit-and-flare dress from Boden.

I bought the blue nylon elbow-length vintage gloves from Firecrackerfarms on Etsy. I've mended them countless times, and especially like to wear them while driving. I scored the fur collar at a local thrift store for just a few dollars. These pearl stud earrings put a contemporary twist on the oversized classic.

You can find similar vintage turban hats on Etsy. You'll likely have luck at shops like His and Her Vintage, based in Delaware, and Fiona's Fancy Fineries, based in the UK. I've personally been eyeing this irresistible 1960s aubergine satin turban.

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