Style Matters

Ah, the toque.

Up in the Great White North we call it a toque. Wikipedia says, “The word 'tuque' is a common spelling error of the french word "toque" which means cap or hat. The word tuque/ toque was adapted in the English vocabulary in Canada as a result of the French Canadian influence. Originally a wool hat designed to provide warmth in winter, today tuques come in several different variations. Most tuques are tapered; they sometimes have ear flaps, and may be topped with a pom-pom, this style of tuque is sometimes referred to as a boggan or sherpa. Tuques may have a folded brim, or none, and may be worn tightly fitting the head or loose on top although the latter is considered more standard.”

Now nothing is better for keeping a bald head warm, or warming your ears and we all know that when you need a cozy head protector in the colder weather the toque is the way to go. Its a great look. I remember my mom in the late 70’s chipping ice off the car windows in the mornings wearing a chunky toque with her big fuzzy perm sticking out the sides. They look great when you’re skiing, ice skating, or doing any other winter activities. Because of their softness, you’re much less likely to have hat-head when you wear them.

My problem with the toque is when hipsters abuse them. If you’re at a rock show and in the pit, you don’t need a toque. If you are wearing shorts, you don’t need a toque. Skateboarding in the California sun? No toque. Also, if you’re indoors, you don’t need a toque. Unless you’re in a warn-down tenement flat with no heat and/or hot water never, ever wear a toque indoors. It sends a fashion mixed message. “Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr, it’s freaking cold,” says your head. “Hey, dude, I’m ready for the beach,” say your shorts-clad legs.

So let’s all wear the toque but don’t abuse the toque because style matters.