Need Advice: Know nothing about Fedoras

[easportsracer13]

I would like to purchase a fedora. I don't know how often I'll wear it but I'm looking for a black one that will match a private detective noir style. I'm looking for something that goes well with my black trench. Cost $100 or less. Maybe something similar to the lounge logo lol

 

[Drew B]

I can't help too much but someone in Arizona might be able to help out. Try some second hand stores in your area. You could also buy one from one of the numerous hat stores about.

Just a quick google search yielded this result.
http://www.aztexhats.com/hats-by-brand.html

Cheers,
Drew B.

 

[easportsracer13]

Thanks. I was concerned more with brand recomendations or ones to stay away from.

 

[Feraud]

The best consumer is a well informed one.
Read on -
http://207.218.231.242/~thefedor/showthread.php?t=28658

 

[Salty O'Rourke]

Before you buy anything online or on ebay, be certain of your hat size. Before I got my first hat I did the measure-yourself-with-a-tape-measure thing, with different tape measures, string, etc, and always came up with a 7 1/8 hat size. I was absolutely certain. I walked into a hat shop and the first thing the salesman said to me was "you look like a 7 1/4 to me"...and he was right. If you are anywhere near a hat shop, even if all they sell is western hats, go there and get fitted so you know your size.

 

[Not-Bogart13]

At a $100 or less, your choices will be limited. Most will not be good for wearing in the rain and snow. If you're brave enough to shape the crown yourself, the absolute best buy for the money (and then some) is the Akubra Federation IV, sold only by hatsdirect.com

The shipping will put you over $100, but the hat is well worth the price. They handle bad weather very well, and can be shaped much like the Lounge logo.

Your other option is a second hand Stetson (do not pay full price if you can avoid it), like the Downs model. Also, maybe Biltomore brand (also second hand to keep you in the (price you want). Both have had mixed results reported regarding wet weather durability.