Last week, Princess Hisako of Takamado was in Wakayama to take part in the closing ceremony of the 15th National Sports Festival for People with Disabilities. She showed off a new hat for the occasion, a brimless moulded piece in dark purple felt with a slightly pointed crown. It looks like the hat is trimmed in a small spray of feathers on the left side. I adore the rich colour on Hisako and like the shape of the hat on her. It’s certainly an improvement over the hat she last paired with this suit.

Designer: unknown. 
Previously Worn: I believe this hat is new

On Saturday, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko attended events celebrating 40 years since the founding of the United Nations University. For this anniversary, Empress Michiko repeated her slate blue saucer hat with blue and gold origami bow. This is the third time we have seen this hat so far this year and I suspect that many of you, like me, are liking more with each outing. The Empress looks lovely in blue and the gold trim on the hat ties so well with the gold lapel and cape lining on her jacket.

Designer: unknown. Likely a milliner at Akio Hirata
Previously Worn: May 17, 2015;  April 9, 2015

Photos from Sankei and Getty as indicated