Army Beret

How do you shape a beret? That's a question that comes up again and again. It seems to be a tradition that's passed down from soldier to soldier (or from Glendale to customer)! Here are the required steps:

  1. Cut out the lining of the beret to reduce bulk and ease shaping. We sell the regulation Army Beret, of course - but a better and cheaper solution would be to start with one of Glendale's unlined Armed Forces Berets.
  2. Wet and shave the beret inside and out to remove the layer of fuzz. That will ensure the wool has a smooth appearance. (Shaving the beret while it's wet should make the job easier.)
  3. Form fit the beret. Soaking the beret before donning it will help stretch the wool and form it to the wearer's head. Most of the beret's material should be pulled down so it drapes over the right ear. The cardboard stiffener should be centered over the wearer's left eye so the headband is about two finger-widths above the eyebrow. Pinch the cardboard stiffener so that the wool dips down behind it. Tie the two laces in the back in a non-slip knot for a snug fit, then cut off the ends of the ties.
  4. Dry the beret by freezing it or just wearing it until it dries.
  5. Have the flash centered on the beret's cardboard stiffener and sewn on. Though some might suggest that it's best to sew the unit flash on as a first step, you run the risk of the beret color bleeding into the flash when it's wet.