I worked this pattern with German short rows on the left hand side of the RS knitting instead of increases and decreases and I love the way that turned out - all right hand RS stitches were knit according to the pattern. I first tried the original way and really did not like the seams on the inside of the hat. The short rows are much less visible and are, of course, completely smooth.

I also switched the i-cord tie for a 5 stitch flat tie per recipient request.