The PrinsjesHatwalk (Prince’s Hat Walk) is an afternoon of stylish hats in the royal city of The Hague in the lead up to Prince’s Day, bringing together designers, politicians and the general public.

Vision, fashion and tradition

The Dutch royals are celebrated during the Prince's Festival in The Hague, a splendiferous event to mark the new parliamentary season.

Artistic vision, haute couture and royal tradition melt together beautifully in this fashion show centred around hats. Numerous high-end hat designers compete for the Prince’s Hat Prize (Prinsenhoedenprijs), including design students and up-and-coming professional designers. The designs of established hat makers are also on show.

Dutch politicians in style

And who are the people wearing the hats? Dutch politicians and their partners and spouses and other prominent stylish members of Dutch society. With opulent hats on show in The Hague, culminating in the presentation of the award for the winning hat, this is a sublime sight to behold.

The hats are judged by a highly esteemed five-person jury to determine who will be presented with the Prinsenhoedenprijs. Six design students show their hats, as well as a handful of designers who have already begun their own collection along with established hat makers who give a fashion show of hats on the PrinsjesMarkt.

The dashing hats are displayed during the walk along the Hofvijver and the winner is determined. This spectacle shows the high standards of hat design and exclusive style in the range of hats among Dutch politicians and their partners. It’s free for spectators.

A Hat Walk for all walks of life with The Hague Hat Stroll

Later on in the day, another type of hat walk takes place, for all the family. From 4.30pm after the main hat event, you can participate in the latest edition of Prince's Hat Stroll. The Hague Hat Stroll starts on the PrinsjesMarkt. You can be both a participant in the Prince's Hat Stroll and a spectator at the Prince's Hat Walk!

Photos ©Remco den Arend