Hats are one of the hardest accessories to get right.
If you’re not used to headwear, they can feel like too much of a ‘thing’. Wearing a baseball cap can feel like you’re cosplaying as Leonardo DiCaprio, while a trilby could come across a little like Pete Doherty circa 2004, and that’s all before we get to the likes of 90s rave bucket hats or Henley Regatta-esque boaters.
Well, we’re here to help you rid yourself of all of these concerns and instead embrace the idea of wearing hats this summer – and, just like a beanie is essential to keeping warm in winter, a summer hat is practical, helping with the heat while shading you from the sun’s harmful UV rays. And, when they’re worn well, they can completely transform your ‘fit.
A baseball cap takes a simple Oxford shirt and jeans to new #OldMoney heights (a hashtag which has recently set social media alight with nearly a million posts on Instagram) – and Celine’s collegiate take is our favourite this season. A t-shirt tucked into trousers becomes a holiday look with the addition of a Panama, while a knitted bucket hat adds a homespun touch which transforms shorts and a tank top to be festival-ready attire.
Better yet, if you’re follically challenged or are just having a bad hair day, a hat is the quick fix that means you can quickly run out the door with no qualms. So, alongside your SPF, sports shorts and summer fragrance, let us introduce you to your new warm-weather wardrobe essential.
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Baseball caps
Perhaps the easiest headwear to pull off, the baseball cap is the best starting point into the world of hats – and, in our opinion, the coolest. Our top tip? Lean into a vintage aesthetic for extra fashion points.
SCRT Priscilla Cap Dusty Pink
If you’re a self-confessed movie stan, London-based streetwear label SCRT should be on your radar. Every year they release collections based on cult classics, from American Psycho to Lost in Translation. This time, it’s Priscilla on the moodboard.
Buy now £40.00, SCRT
Norse Projects Twill Sports Cap
For baseball caps packed with Ivy League charm, head to Norse Project. With a simple embroidered N, it’s both understated and nonchalant. If black’s not your bag, there are plenty of other colours to choose from.
Buy now £75.00, Norse Projects
Celine Homme Logo-Appliquéd Cotton-Gabardine Baseball Cap
A cap that’s on our dreamboard for 2024, Celine’s collegiate take features the brand’s terry-cloth varsity initial aplliquéd front and centre. The Parisian brand is the only team we’re supporting this season.
Buy now £420.00, Mr. Porter
Bucket hats
Once associated with rave culture, the bucket hat still has many ties with the music industry – spotted on everyone from Tyler The Creator to Billie Eilish. Perfect for the beach as well as festivals, it’s an investment that will come in handy every time the warmer weather arrives.
Ami De Coeur Bucket Hat
Parisian label Ami was founded by creative director Alexandre Mattiussi out of a desire to make clothes his friends would wear – hence the name, which means ‘friend’ in French. If this bucket hat is anything to go by, it seems we could be friends with him too.
Buy now £165.00, Ami
OAS Desert Bucket Hat
A resortwear expert, OAS’ laid-back collections are full of pieces we’ll be packing in our suitcases this summer. This bucket hat’s a case in point, from the terry cotton to the understated pattern. Perfect for poolside relaxation.
Buy now £50.00, OAS
Story MFG. Brew Striped Crocheted Organic Cotton Bucket Hat
Story MFG. is a brand that cares for both the planet and the people on it, with all of its collections produced with a ‘slow fashion’ mindset with skilled artisans worldwide. This bucket hat is hand-crocheted using organic cotton and detailed with colourful stripes – festival headwear at its finest.
Buy now £180.00, Mr. Porter
Fisherman hats
The bucket hat’s gorpier sibling, the fisherman hat is usually crafted using textiles with practical credentials and features a handy chin strap. If you’re someone who’s notorious for leaving your accessories behind, this is the one for you.
Nike Jordan Apex
Though Nike is a go-to for all things activewear, the sportswear giant’s lifestyle range isn’t to be missed either. This Air Jordan hat is a case in point, from the built-in sweatband that helps keep you dry to the embroidered eyelets which let your head breathe – and the cream colourway is begging for some summer sun.
Buy now £32.99, Nike
Arc’Teryx Cranbrook Hat
From the starry fanbase which includes Drake and Frank Ocean to the collaborations with Jil Sander and Louis Vuitton, we’re sure you’re no stranger to outerwear label Arc’Teryx. Ideal for any outdoor summer activity, the protective and breathable Cranbrook Hat has you covered whether you’re into hiking or simply prefer sunbathing. We’ll be doing the latter.
Buy now £75.00, Arc’Teryx
JW Anderson Shade Hat With Logo
An expert in designing accessories, we’ve already got JW Anderson’s bumper bag and chain mules on our wishlist. Now, we’re adding this fisherman’s hat too thanks to its versatile colourway, understated logo and wide brim.
Buy now £240.00, JW Anderson
Panama Hats
Originating from Ecuador, the Panama hat was originally designed to offer respite from the blistering heat – so, naturally, these will keep your head cool and protected. A style that’s perfect for the well-to-do gent.
Borges & Scott The Savanna Leather Trimmed Teardrop Panama Hat
A family-run business that was founded in 1978, Borges & Scott’s speciality is the Panama. It makes sense, then, that The Savanna is one of the most stylish designs we could find. The leather trim takes it up a notch.
Buy now £89.95, Borges & Scott
Borsalino Panama Straw Hat
Established in 1857, Italian milliner Borsalino has an archive which dates back over 165 years making them the longest-standing Italian hat manufacturer to date – and one of their classic styles is the Panama. So, though it’s on the expensive side, it’s an investment that will go the distance.
Buy now £301.00, MyTheresa
Lock & Co Hatters Heath Panama
One of Britain’s most renowned hatmakers, you can’t go wrong with Lock & Co Hatters. Luckily, the brand offers a strong selection of panamas to choose from – our favourite is the Heath with its exaggerated brim and blue ribbon detailing.
Buy now £295.00, Lock & Co
