Beret - what it actually is?

A beret is a soft, round, flat-crowned hat, usually of woven or hand-knitted wool or wool felt, or these days often acrylic fiber.
The modern beret is derived from the traditional hat of Basque shepherds and was first mass-produced in 19th century France and Spain, countries with which it remains associated. Berets are worn as part of the uniform of many military and police units worldwide, as well as by other organizations.