A chef hat, also known as a toque, is a tall, pleated hat worn by professional chefs. Traditionally white, it symbolizes the chef's expertise and authority in the kitchen. The number of pleats can represent the chef's level of experience or the number of recipes they have mastered. The design of the chef hat helps to keep hair away from food while also allowing for ventilation. It is an important part of a chef's uniform, which often includes a chef coat and apron. The hat not only serves a practical purpose but also adds to the professional appearance of culinary professionals.