HATS may not be big on the fashion scene here, but a 'select clientele' and those who are more 'fashionably aware' do buy them, says Kelly Yeo of Deja Vu Vintage.

'They're great for covering a bad hair day, for instance, besides transforming your usual look,' she adds.

The well-established vintage store has recently brought in a collection of some 20-30 vintage Austrian hats, made mostly from wool, and popular in the 1960s and 70s. 'There's quite a wide variety, from more ladylike shapes to quirky typically Austrian ones, with feathers and badges,' she explains.

Ms Yeo sees the 'look' and the shape of these hats making a comeback. 'The shapes are being picked up again, and they can be quite modern or matched with street fashion,' she says. 'They can be paired with dresses, and edgy and funky as well, depending on how you wear them.'

Prices start from $49, with some above $100. But most will set you back between $70 and $80.

Deja Vu Vintage
#01-18, The Cathay

This article was first published in The Business Times on Mar 8, 2008.