Grace Kelly: Queen of the Turban Hat
- Julie Diana
- Dec 12, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 1

Grace Kelly's style was--and still is--the epitome of understated class.
She wore fabulous headwear designed by the era's leading milliners not only at state events and as a leading lady in Hitchcock films, but also as a young mother at play with her children.
There are countless photos of Grace, as a Hollywood starlet and later the Princess of Monaco, in headscarves, wide brim hats, and cocktail hats. My personal favorites are her turban hats, which always coordinated with her elegant outfits.
Below I've featured just a small sample--it was hard to narrow them down! Scroll down to watch the video of how I've emulated her timeless style.
Grace Kelly in designer turban hats
At a press conference in Ottowa, before having lunch with the Prime Minister of Canada.
Receiving a medal of honor in Paris, 1959.
At the premier of 'Crime and Punishment' in Paris, 1975.
At the Committee for Scientific Exploration, in Rome, Italy, December 1970.
Meeting oceanographer Jacques Cousteau and his wife Simone in Monaco City, 1970.
Boating with family in Monaco, 1967.
In Monaco at the Karting Club opening in November 1962.
At the inauguration of the 'Baby Dior' shop in Paris, 1967.
In Nice, France with Princess Benedikte of Denmark in 1966.
At the Henley Regatta in August 1965, in Henley, UK.
Getting off the plane at Idlewild Airport (now JFK) with husband Prince Rainier. You can see a color version of this outfit here.
Grace preparing before her civil marriage ceremony to Prince Rainier in 1956.
Same event, chatting with her older sister Peggy.
In Washington, D.C., on a visit to President JFK and First Lady Jackie.
Above and below: Grace and Rainier at the reception for their civil wedding.
The Modest Outfit
Inspired by these Grace Kelly turban hat looks, I've put together an ensemble of vintage accessories, care of my thrifting habit. The black Lord & Taylor silk-satin 1950s turban was an Etsy find. I've styled it over a black cotton cap for added coverage, and paired it with a navy ponte knit fit-and-flare dress from Boden.
I found the blue nylon elbow-length vintage gloves on Etsy. I've mended them countless times, and especially like to wear them while driving.
The fur collar was a lucky thrift store find for just a few dollars. As a final touch, 12mm pearl stud earrings put a contemporary twist on the oversized classic.

You can find similar vintage turban hats on Etsy here. You'll likely have luck at shops like His and Her Vintage, based in Delaware, and Fiona's Fancy Fineries, based in the UK. I've personally been eyeing this irresistible 1960s aubergine satin turban.
Thank you for stopping by!
It's a pleasure to create for elegant women like you. Join hundreds who get subscriber-only content every Friday! Sign up below.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!