There are a few tips I can offer to lessen the slog. Start with top milliners such as Stephen Jones and Philip Treacy – you will find them in Harvey Nichols or Selfridges. They may be out of your budget but at least you will get some first class advice on the right shapes for you. Next, think about the bigger picture. If you are petite, look for neat shapes such as a pillbox, pork pie or even a cloche. Debenhams is great for hats, especially J by Jasper Conran's felt cloche, £18 (0844 5616161).

If you are tall or broad, try bigger statement styles such as the Dior fedora or a broad-brimmed floppy affair. Oasis has a floral corsage design in purple or teal that is perfect, £30 (01865 881986). But there are no hard and fast rules.

You may find it useful to look at alternative specialist milliners for inspiration – my favourite is Australian designer Helen Kaminski. Her split-brim cap, for example, is classic yet totally unique, £190 (www. helen k aminski. com).

I would also think about when you plan to wear it. If it is for the weekend you could go for something more relaxed like a beanie or beret, Jaeger has a great selection from £90 (www. jaeger. co. uk). 

As with any statement accessory, keep the rest of your look simple so avoid fussy scarves or jewellery – Ralph Lauren has got it spot on (pictured). And don't forget a weatherproof spray (www. fabricuk. com) as well as a good hatbox to store it in (www. theclearbox. com).

Fashion footnote: For must-have accessories I don’t think anyone could doubt of the value of the Ila Dusk personal alarm. Named after the Hindu goddess of speech, it emits a powerful piercing female scream to disorientate your attacker and give you precious seconds to escape. 

Exclusive to M&S, £19.50, (www.marksandspencer.com)