Last Wednesday, Princess Hisako of Takamado attended the All Japan Junior Rubber Ball Championship (similar to baseball, this sport is played with a rubber ball called a nanshiki, which is lighter than a regular baseball and does not travel as far). Princess Hisako presented the Takamado Cup (named after her late husband Prince Norihito, a longtime supporter of sport) in light straw summer hat. Similar to the piece she wore at the boat cutter races in early August, this piece featured cut outs of wide, open-weave straw on the upturned brim and around the top of the crown. The hat was simply trimmed with several flat curling bows made of straw.
This is much more casual hat than we usually see worn by an Imperial Royal and makes me curious, dear readers- what do you think of it?
Photo from Sankei
Royal Hats 
There’s a Rubber ball championship!!!!!!!
I like Princess Hisako of Takamado’s straw hat and I would happily wear it myself. It’s a nice change of style for her. It’s a pity that whoever does the ironing at the Palace was off sick because the crumpled skirt isn’t a good look! Her necklace and brooch isn’t too shabby either.
Princess Hisako looks elegant and summery in this hat and outfit. It is a shame that her skirt is so creased.
She is a real favourite of mine. She always seems delighted to be where she is and very “approachable” for a member of the Japanese Royal family. I love her in this hat.
I love it! Light and bright, and matches her smile.
This is the first time I’ve seen a member of the imperial family in such a casual look, including wrinkles. It endears her to me to be more approachable