Ready to bring a touch of vintage Parisian flair to your wardrobe? This classic red beret is one of my favorite designs - delightfully retro with just the right amount of slouch. I absolutely adore how the rich crimson yarn and carefully planned increases create that quintessential beret shape that never goes out of style.
I've broken down this timeless pattern into easy-to-follow steps, complete with detailed photos to guide you through each round. Whether you're crocheting your first hat or your fiftieth, you'll find this project both delightfully nostalgic and wonderfully wearable. Shall we begin creating your own piece of vintage-inspired charm?
Pin for Later
Don't forget to pin this vintage red beret pattern for your next cozy crafting session - you won't want to lose this gem!
Details About Vintage Red Beret Hat
Fall in love with the charming details of this vintage-inspired beret! Your finished beret will measure approximately 10.2 inches in diameter with a comfortable depth of roughly 5.9 inches, and a circumference of about 27.5 inches - creating that classic slouchy silhouette we all adore. The careful increases and decreases in the pattern help achieve this timeless shape that sits just right on your head.
As for colors, while I'm absolutely smitten with the classic red shown here (it's just so Parisian!), don't be afraid to make it your own. I've seen gorgeous versions in deep burgundy, rich forest green, or even a sophisticated navy blue. For a truly vintage feel, try working with a slightly heathered yarn that adds beautiful depth and texture to each stitch.
Remember, the beauty of this pattern lies in its versatility - whatever color you choose, the carefully crafted stitches will create that timeless beret silhouette we all love.
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
Let me share my absolute favorite yarn choice for this vintage beret - I'm head over heels for Loopara 4-ply milk cotton yarn! Not only is it incredibly soft against your skin, but it also has just the right amount of drape to create that perfect beret slouch we're after. The stitch definition is absolutely stunning, showing off every detail of our pattern beautifully.
For this design, I used a 4.0mm hook which creates the ideal fabric - not too tight, not too loose, just perfect! If you tend to crochet tightly, you might want to size up to a 4.5mm hook, while loose crocheters might prefer sticking with the 4.0mm for better structure.
When it comes to colors, let's talk about what makes this beret truly special. While I chose a classic red that gives major Parisian vibes, the Loopara yarn comes in an amazing range of shades. For a vintage look, I particularly love their muted tones - think dusty rose, sage green, or warm caramel. The yarn's slight sheen adds such a lovely sophisticated touch to whatever color you choose!
What makes this milk cotton yarn absolutely perfect for a beret is its amazing stitch definition and body - it holds its shape beautifully while still being lightweight and breathable. Plus, it gets softer with each wash without losing that polished look we're going for.
Materials needed for Vintage Red Beret Hat
- Yarn – Loopara 4ply combed cotton (Red 67)
- Hook – 4.0mm
- Stitch Marker
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Leather Label
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- fpdc - front post double crochet
- sc inc - single crochet increase
- dc inc - double crochet increase
- dc2tog - double crochet 2 together
- sl - slip stitch
How to Crochet Vintage Red Beret Hat – Step by Step
How to Crochet the Hat Crown
Rounds 1-4: Chain 1, work 6 single crochet into the ring, slip stitch to join, chain 1. Repeat for rounds 2-4.
Round 5: Chain 1, work [1 single crochet, 1 single crochet increase] 3 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 6: Chain 1, work [2 single crochet, 1 single crochet increase] 3 times, slip stitch to join.
How to Crochet the Hat Body
Round 1: Chain 3, work [2 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 4 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 2: Chain 3, work [1 double crochet increase, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 3: Chain 3, work [3 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 4: Chain 3, work [4 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 5: Chain 3, work [2 double crochet, 1 double crochet increase, 2 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 6: Chain 3, work [3 double crochet, 1 double crochet increase, 3 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 7: Chain 3, work [4 double crochet, 1 double crochet increase, 4 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 8: Chain 3, work [5 double crochet, 1 double crochet increase, 5 double crochet, then 1 double crochet followed by 1 front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Rounds 9-13: Chain 3, work 112 double crochet while maintaining front post double crochet in established positions, slip stitch to join.
Round 14: Chain 3, work [5 double crochet, 1 double crochet 2 together, 4 double crochet, 1 double crochet 2 together, front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Round 15: Chain 3, work [4 double crochet, 1 double crochet 2 together, 3 double crochet, 1 double crochet 2 together, front post double crochet] 8 times, slip stitch to join.
Rounds 16-19: Chain 1, work 80 single crochet, slip stitch to join. Fasten off and weave in all ends.
Finishing: Attach the leather label and your hat is complete.
Tips: When working the hat body, keep your front post double crochets aligned vertically to create beautiful texture lines. Count your stitches after each round to maintain the perfect beret shape, and avoid pulling your yarn too tight. This beret is crocheted with two strands of yarn held together throughout the pattern.
Care and Cleaning Instructions
Daily Care Tips
Keep your vintage beret looking its best by gently brushing off any dust or lint with a soft-bristled brush. After wearing, reshape it with your hands and let it air out for a few hours before storing - this helps maintain that perfect slouchy shape we all love!
Washing Methods
For gentle cleaning, hand wash your beret in cool water using mild wool detergent. Don't wring or twist - instead, gently squeeze out excess water using a clean towel. Reshape while damp and lay flat to dry naturally. This preserves the beautiful stitch definition and helps your beret keep its perfect form.
Storage Suggestions
Store your beret flat in a drawer, or gently fold it in half and keep it in a dust-free box. I love placing a small piece of acid-free tissue paper inside to help maintain its shape. Avoid hanging your beret, as this can stretch out the fabric and distort that lovely silhouette we worked so hard to create!
What’s Next?
Love how your vintage beret turned out? Share your gorgeous creation with other crochet enthusiasts! Tag me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter - I can't wait to see your unique color choices and how you style this timeless piece. Don't forget to inspire others by sharing your crochet journey!