What are hats considered in the context of an actor's performance?

Hats are considered accessories in the context of an actor's performance because they serve as additional items that complement the overall character design. Accessories like hats enhance the appearance of a character and can contribute significantly to conveying personality, status, or time period without being the primary part of the costume. They add detail and depth to the portrayal, allowing the actor to embody the character more fully.

While props are objects that actors interact with during a performance, hats do not typically fall into this category as they are worn rather than handled. Costumes refer to the entirety of what the actor wears to depict their character, while costume elements might suggest individual components of the outfit. Accessories, including hats, form a vital part of this ensemble, offering visual richness and helping to establish mood and character traits.