This a pretty basic hat. I think the texture of the yarn and the swirl created by the decreases on the top is what makes the hat look pretty.

To make this hat a little smaller, decrease by 5 stitches at a time AND

in the step that says:
- k 14, ssk, pm, repeat from * to * until the end of the row. (You should have 5 markers on your needles, including your original marker.)

Knit 1 stitch less for every 5 stitches you decreased.

For example:

• If you decrease the cast on by 5 stitches, then start with k 13, ssk, pm etc.
• If you decrease the cast on by 10 stitches, then start with k 12, ssk, pm etc.

…and so forth.