Emperor Akihito and Empress Mishiko have been in Hiroshima over the past two days. Yesterday, they visited Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park to lay a floral remembrance at the Atomic Bomb Victims Memorial. Interestingly, the Empress repeated the same cream petite saucer hat that she wore while in Nagasaki in October (and visited the other atomic bomb memorial in Japan). This hat, trimmed with cream and black folded bows, hits just the right note for this kind of memorial engagement. I thought the Empress’ electric blue scarf added a wonderful hit of colour to the outfit, balancing out the black and white hound’s tooth pattern on her skirt and on her hat.
Designer: I suspect Akio Hirata
Previously Worn: October 12, 2014; November 29, 2013
Photo from Asahi Shimbun
Royal Hats 
She looks very elegant and yet I am not a fan of these type of hats…wearing a hat on a band for me is so childlike and disappointing.
To be fair, many hats are constructed with elastic to secure them to the head. I don’t see what’s childlike about that (unless the elastic is worn under the chin which thankfully, royals do not!).
The hat is charming and it suits her. She is such a tiny lady, and she knows just what to wear and how to wear it. In general, the Imperial ladies are very attuned to their surroundings and they dress to be appropriate. They are not showy and fashion forward, types, but lady like and refined. It is a delight to,see the empress again. I remember her vividly from my childhood. I have always thought she had such a sweet, beautiful face and serene expression.
They are an elegant couple and never disappoint.
I agree that the Empress’ outfit is elegant and respectful. Dear HatQueen, I am sure that you will but could you put together a tribute in hats of the late Queen Fabiola, please?
I like Empress Michiko’s entire outfit. It is elegant and respectful. This little hat is really cute and it’s nice to see it again.