Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko were in Toyama over the weekend to take part in the 35th National Healthy Ocean Meetings. For their arrival on Saturday, Empress Michiko repeated her large white domed saucer hat trimmed in a black and caramel bow that coordinates with her jacket. The slightly different stripe between the bow and the jacket gives a tiny bit of visual interest to the piece although I still wish the hat was a colour other than harsh white.

Designer: My guess is Akio Hirata
Previously Worn: October 29, 2014

On Sunday, the Imperial couple attended the Healthy Ocean conference in Imizu. Empress Michiko wore one of her most oft-worn hats, a small pale grey saucer with upturned rim around the back. The petite piece is trimmed by a large charcoal grey origami flower.

Designer: likely Akio Hirata
Previously Worn: April 17, 2015; April 17, 2015; January 14, 2015;  April 11, 2014; December 6, 2013; December 2, 2013

Yesterday, the Emperor and Empress capped off their three day visit with a stop at an aquaculture center in Namerikawa. Empress Michiko used the occasion to début a new hat in teal blue. Another domed saucer, this small piece is trimmed in a simple flat bow in the same fabric as her coordinating suit. It is wonderful to see the Empress in a bit of colour and pattern and I think this ensemble is very smart on her. She looks great in teal, doesn’t she?

Designer: unknown
Previously Worn: This hat is new

My favourite hat in this trio, by wide margin, is the new teal saucer hat the Empress wore yesterday – do you agree?

Photos from Yomiyuri; Asahi Shimbun, Asahi Shimbun, Asahi Shimbun via Getty; Ashahi Shimbun; Asahi Shimbun and Asahi Shimbun via Getty