The right topper can transform any outfit into a show-stopping look and instill the wearer with confidence and attitude. Here are the best stores to shop for hats in New York City.

More: The 6 Best Dresses For Spring In NYC

(credit:The Hat Shop)

The transformative effect of hats is well known to The Hat Shop’s proprietor, Linda Pagan. “Hats are like masks,” she states, “And people tend to have more fun when they are wearing masks.” The deceptively small Hat Shop is tastefully crammed with beautifully-made hats for both men and women. The ultra-comfortable shop offers the custom services of a milliner’s atelier and features a large variety of fedoras, cloches and delicate confections appropriate for special occasions or the daily grind. Custom-made designs are available at the same price point as off-the-rat hats, from $150 – $350. And don’t worry if your lady friend gravitates toward the men’s styles for herself. Says Pagan, “If men’s hats were good enough for Marlena Dietrich, they’re good enough for us!”

(credit:Village Scandal)

Entering the doll-house sized Village Scandal may make you feel as if you’ve stumbled upon a treasure-trove filled secret attic. Whimsical children’s hats and elegant toppers, newsboys and of course, the Scandal Cloche in a riot of colors, are yours for the trying. One of Scandal’s go-to looks this spring is the hip, stingy-brim fedora for men in neutral tones ranging from camel to copper. For women, flattering hues of lavender, blue and turquoise will grace a variety of styles. Hats range from $35 – $170. Located in a neighborhood chock-full of restaurants, wine bars and pubs, Scandal stays open till at least midnight seven days a week.

Related: Shop NYC: The Market

(credit:Pork Pie Hatters)

Proprietors Sean and Hanna love hats almost as much as they love each other. Their goal was to bring a classic-hat experience to the East Village, and they’ve achieved it. “Hats are a utility, not just a fashion item,” said Sean, who inherited his love of the hat business from his parents, both seasoned milliners. Hats at this shop range from $85 – $1,000. Best sellers year-round are the Capas Blues Brothers Fedora in crushable wool felt at $60 and the classic, hand-woven Panama Hat at $85.

(credit:Harlem's Heaven Hat Boutique)

Head designer Evetta Petty understands the need for both fantasy and practicality in life, and the creative hats at Heaven reflect that. A self-taught milliner who set up shop in Harlem 20 years ago, Petty loves to work with feathers, satin ribbon and non-traditional fabrics year-round. Her hot looks for spring include grosgrain ribbon headbands and anything red, from knit caps to fedoras. As passionate about people as she is about hats, Petty’s chemotherapy collection features feminine, beautiful creations for $35. Hats range from $35 – $650.

(credit:Suzanne Couture Millinery)

If a wedding or other once-in-a-lifetime event is in your future, this upscale, spacious millinery boutique should be on your go-to list. The professional staff at Suzanne’s can custom dye straw to match any ensemble or fabric swatch you bring.