Newsboy Caps vs Flat Caps | The Main Differences

Newsboy Caps and Flat Caps are timeless headwear styles that have made a significant comeback in recent years. Often confused due to their similar appearance, these caps have distinct differences in terms of structure, history, and styling. In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between newsboy caps and flat caps, helping you choose the right one for your wardrobe and understand the heritage behind these classic accessories.

1. Understanding the Basics: What Are Newsboy Caps and Flat Caps?

Before diving into the differences, it’s important to understand what each style represents.

What Is a Flat Cap?

A flat cap, also known as a driving cap, ivy cap, cabbie cap or golf cap, is a rounded cap with a small, stiff brim at the front. The crown of the flat cap is usually flat or slightly curved and sewn to the brim. Flat caps are typically made from materials like tweed, wool, or cotton and are associated with traditional British and Irish fashion. The flat cap has a sleek, streamlined appearance, making it a versatile choice for both casual and semi-formal outfits.

Herringbone wool flat cap

What Is a Newsboy Cap?

A newsboy cap, sometimes called a bakerboy cap, hatteras, 8 panels cap or newsie cap, shares a similar shape to the flat cap but with some key differences. The newsboy cap is rounder and puffier, with an eight-panel construction and a button at the top. The brim is usually attached to the crown with a small snap or stitching, giving it a more voluminous and casual look. Like flat caps, newsboy caps are often made from tweed, wool, or cotton, and they exude a vintage, old-school charm.

Classic plain cotton newsboy cap

2. Key Differences Between Newsboy Caps and Flat Caps

While these two cap styles may look similar at first glance, they have several distinguishing features:

1. Crown Shape and Structure

• Flat Cap: The crown of a flat cap is flat or slightly curved, sitting close to the head. It has a more streamlined and fitted shape, making it sleek and subtle.
• Newsboy Cap: The newsboy cap has a fuller, rounder crown that consists of eight panels stitched together. This gives it a puffier, more three-dimensional look, with extra volume on top.

2. Number of Panels

• Flat Cap: Typically, flat caps are made from a single piece of fabric or a few large panels, creating a smooth and fitted appearance.
• Newsboy Cap: The newsboy cap is made up of eight separate panels that converge at the top with a button, contributing to its distinctive, voluminous shape.

3. Brim Style

• Flat Cap: The brim of a flat cap is usually small, stiff, and sewn directly to the crown, giving it a fixed position and a clean look.
• Newsboy Cap: The brim on a newsboy cap is also small but slightly more flexible. It’s typically attached with a button or stitching, allowing for a more casual and adjustable fit.

4. Formality and Styling

• Flat Cap: The flat cap is often considered more formal and versatile. It pairs well with both smart-casual outfits like blazers and chinos, as well as with laid-back looks like jeans and a sweater. Its understated profile makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions.
• Newsboy Cap: The newsboy cap leans towards a more casual, vintage style. It’s ideal for adding a touch of retro charm to everyday outfits, often seen in bohemian, streetwear, and heritage-inspired looks.

5. Historical Associations

• Flat Cap: The flat cap has deep roots in British and Irish working-class culture. It was historically worn by laborers, farmers, and tradespeople. Today, it’s seen as a symbol of classic British fashion, popularized by everyone from 1920s gentlemen to modern-day fashion enthusiasts.
• Newsboy Cap: As the name suggests, the newsboy cap is associated with early 20th-century newspaper boys, vendors, and working-class individuals. Its association with youthful, street-smart characters and its popularity in 1920s-1930s fashion has given it an enduring appeal.

3. When to Wear a Flat Cap vs. a Newsboy Cap

Knowing when to choose a flat cap over a newsboy cap—or vice versa—depends on the look you’re aiming for and the occasion.

Choose a Flat Cap If…
You’re looking for a more polished, versatile accessory. A flat cap is ideal for smart-casual occasions, work settings, or when you want a subtle, refined touch. It’s also perfect for pairing with tailored coats, blazers, and classic knitwear.

Choose a Newsboy Cap If…
You’re going for a vintage, relaxed, or playful style. The newsboy cap is a great option for casual weekends, retro-inspired outfits, or when you want to add some personality to your ensemble. It works well with oversized coats, chunky sweaters, and streetwear looks.