Head Start

Fashion is fickle. Styles come and go. Leg warmers and hot pink get replaced by ripped jeans and flannel, only to come back again decades later. But hats? They're forever.

The baseball cap has transcended the sport to become a fashion fixture in its own right. The beanie, a long-time staple of the skateboard and alternative music scenes, has rocketed to the fore as those subcultures have gone mainstream. The fedora? Indiana Jones wore one-what more do you need?

This kind of staying power should be reason enough for your clients to buy promotional hats. To help you get started, check out some of the current styles on the market.

Modern Classic
The unstructured Classic Vintage Cap from AHEAD comes in 28 colors, so you're covered no matter what side you choose in the "Pepsi or Coke" argument. Made from twill. For more information, visit www.aheadcorporate.com.

Well Seasoned
It's tough to top the synthesizer riff in "Push It" by Salt-n-Pepa, but the six-panel Salt and Pepper Hat from American Apparel comes close with its adjustable snap-back closure and built-in cotton twill sweatband. For more information, visit www.americanapparel.net/wholesale.

Driver's Ed
Like all his other movies, "Drive" is just one long opportunity for Ryan Gosling to steal our hearts. Capture the Gosling mojo with the antimicrobial, moisture-wicking Badger Drive Pro Tech Flex Cap from Bodek and Rhodes. For more information, visit www.bodekandrhodes.com.

The Land Down Under
Available in khaki or navy, the water-resistant, wide brim, easily storable Fold N' Go Outdoor Hat from Ariel Premium Supply would make even hat-sporting legend Crocodile Dundee proud to wear it. Areas for screen print are available on the carrying bag, as well as the top and front of the hat. For more information, visit www.arielpremium.com.

My Little Pony
With a built-in ponytail opening on the back, Brandwear Basics Ltd.'s Mia Ponytail Running Cap is perfect for active women or dudes in metal bands. The flatlock-stitched cap is made from 87/13 nylon/spandex jersey and comes in black, purple or pink. For more information, visit www.brandwear.ca.