I’m sorry, the old me can’t come to the phone right now. Why? Oh, ‘cause she’s wearing a cunty princess hat that limits all movement.

It’s official, girlies and non-girlies — we have been graced with Spring’s style masterpiece. It’s not the crochet tops taking over our FYP (as if you’re actually going to make that), butter yellow clothes, or resort wear (thank The White Lotus for that one). No, it’s princess hats. No, literally—those massive cones that Madonna turned into bras in the ’80s, also known as hennins.

Hennins, for the uninitiated, were the It Girl accessory of the 15th century, worn by European noblewomen to flex their status and impeccable taste. The taller the hennin, the closer to royalty (or the more likely you were to get stuck in a doorway, but whatever). Originally made of stiffened fabric or lightweight wire frames, these hats were a symbol of refinement and elegance — until now when they’re a symbol of being an absolute serve.

Thanks to style icon Chappell Roan, who rocked Piers Atkinson’s custom design to the Grammys, we are bringing back the conical princess hats that once ruled medieval courts. Imagine this: You’re rocking this oversized traffic cone over your curls, catching the king’s gap-toothed smile as he searches for a virgin to be his fourth wife, before taking to the floor to show off your mead-fueled dance skills. Those were the days. Well, they’re back, and here’s everything you need to know about styling princess hats.

Why Are Princess Hats Having A Moment In Spring 2025?

How To Make Princess Hats; How To Style Princess Hats — Image Credit: Getty

Chappell Roan wore a yellow cone-shaped hat and veil to accept her Best New Artist award at the Grammys, and we all collectively swooned. She literally became our Midwest Princess, pairing the tall hat with a bunched white dress, cementing her status as the reigning queen of whimsical fashion. Chappell is no stranger to eccentric headpieces — or even medieval aesthetics — as she’s previously rocked a pink princess cone, armor, a Statue of Liberty crown, cowboy hats, and various tiaras.

She debuted this look at just the right time, as the world is leaning hard into whimsical fashion and lifestyle. Everything is going to shit, so we may as well look like fairytale characters and take nothing too seriously!!! As a result, princess cones are taking social media by storm, with many users uploading tutorials on how to make their own.

What You’ll Need To Make A Princess Hat

@lauraleii Tag your besties 👯 This is your sign to have a perfect night! ⚔️👸🏻💕👑 #diyproject #diy #craftnight #medievaltimes ♬ This Will Be – audios4you

Princess hats make the perfect party craft. Grab your besties, gather your supplies, and unleash the creativity you’ve been stifling with your corporate job. For extra fun, put on some medieval music and twirl around like the royalty you deserve to be.

Two large sheets of craft paper
Double-sided tape
Glue
A thin string or elastic
Fabric for the veil or to cover the cone
Jewels, ribbons, trim, pearls, or any other embellishments you love

How To Style A Princess Hat

Chappell Roan princess hat — Image Credit: Getty Images

Okay, you’ve got your iconic princess hat — what’s next? Best believe we are wearing these babies outdoors. If Chappell Roan can rock a princess hat, we all can. Here are some top tips for styling your hennin:

Decide on your aesthetic

Not all hennins are the same vibe, obviously. If you want classic medieval, opt for tall, pointed hennins with flowing veils in soft fabrics like chiffon or silk. If you’re channeling fantasy/fairytale energy (aka ACOTAR), add embellishments like pearls, rhinestones, or lace for a magical look. If you’re a little shy but still down to play, go for a smaller, structured cone hat with a minimalist design.

Hair matters

To be historically accurate (and give a polished touch), aim for an updo like a slicked-back bun or braided crown. For a more cottagecore aesthetic, keep your hair loose and curly.

Coordinate your outfit

Your hat is the statement piece, so let it shine. A minidress is chef’s kiss, especially with a regency-era empire cut. Complete this modern princess aesthetic with knee-high boots for a playful touch — or even cowboy boots if you want to Taylor-Swiftify this look. If you’re aiming for gothic princess vibes, pair your hennin with deep jewel tones and dark, dramatic pieces.

Accessorize wisely

Think delicate pearl earrings, a statement necklace, or medieval-style rings. Keep your makeup simple and focus on the eyes so they don’t get lost under the hat. Go wild with blush and highlighter, as you want to look like a windswept maiden in her prime of innocence — lol, unlikely.

Secure your hat

Use hairpins or an elastic band under your hair to keep it in place. Double-check for balance — a tilted hennin can look awkward if not intentional. If you’re going to wear it for long periods (e.g. bottomless brunch), aim for a lightweight hat because that shit gets heavy.

Own it

The key to pulling off this look? Confidence. You are a princess — so act like it. The first people to wear graphic liner, berets, or layering t-shirts probably felt silly, and now those are staple items. Wear the cone. Be the moment. It tells people you are confident but cute, fashionable but whimsical, present but ready to be committed. You are now fully equipped to go forth into the world and rock ye olde hennin. If you’re feeling nervous, let your first outing be to a Medieval Times restaurant — you’ll fit right in!