9 of Queen Elizabeth’s most fabulous hats

Today marks Queen Elizabeth II’s 88th birthday, and, while a crown might be what most expect the Queen to wear on such a special occasion, we’re hoping she’ll be stepping out in yet another of her many fabulous hats.

Have a look at some of her best hats through the years.

Flowers are a theme that has gotten her through many decades, just like this Simone Mirman number, circa 1973.

In 1978, this fuzzy fur helmet was the center of attention when she visited the Corps of Royal Military Police at Roussillon Barracks in Chichester, England.

Wearing hats that match her coats is a big theme for the Queen; case in point, this look she wore to tour the Hrebienok ski resort in October 2008.

A cashmere coat and a fur hat made for a luxurious pairing when the Queen attended the unveiling for the Queen Mother on the mall in London in February 2009.

She donned this purple show-stopper at the Royal Ascot horse race in June 2010.

The next year at Royal Ascot, the Queen opted for a feminine pink topper.

Apparently even the Queen has a punk side, as she demonstrated with her headwear choice at the Epsom Derby horse race in June 2012.

She opted for bold blue to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee in 2012.

Last summer at the Royal Ascot horse race, the Queen made a surprisingly strong statement with a pale pink straw hat.