The Types of Hats You Should Consider Investing In

(Image credit: Vanni Bassetti / Getty Images)

By Marina Liao published 7 July 20

Hats don't get nearly enough love compared to shoes or handbags. Perhaps because they're misunderstood? So we're here to explain the difference between a fedora and a panama hat, and why we're #TeamBucketHats. Like the perfect pair of earrings or that statement bag that ties a look together, the right hat can offer that same finished feeling. The next time your ensemble is looking a little blah, spice it up with one of the six hat style options ahead. You'll have to experiment a little with what works for you, but before you deem yourself as "not a hat person" (there's a hat for everyone out there!), take the time to peruse all your options and take all the hat selfies.

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Baseball Cap

Named for the fabric cap originally worn by baseball players, these days, you'll find street style stars rocking the style on their days off. An adjustable strap at the back plus a curved brim that sticks out are this hat's defining features.

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Rag & Bone Marilyn Baseball Cap

This suede baseball cap from Rag & Bone pairs perfectly with loungewear or a maxi dress.

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Gucci GG Velvet Baseball Cap

You have your casual baseball caps that you wear to games, and then you have your fancy baseball caps you wear on occasion as the statement-making accessory to your outfits. This Gucci cap is made in Italy from plush velvet jacquard and is woven with the house's iconic GG logo.

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Nike Black Featherlight Cap

Sporty meets chic in this simple cap from Nike.

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Beanie

A knit cap of variable slouchiness that be worn a few ways, including but not limited to: high on the back of the head; down over the ears with the brim turned up; or all the way down in an effort to brave the cold (they're the most functional of hats!). They're even office appropriate.

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Fendi Intarsia Cashmere and Wool-Blend Beanie

For harsh winters, bundle up in this cashmere and wool-blend beanie. It can be worn folded over or slightly slouchy, depending on how you style it. Make it a complete winter accessory set with the matching scarf.

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Acne Studios Logo Patch Wool Beanie

Pair this logo beanie with a bright coat for a colorblock look.

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The Elder Statesman Tie-Dyed Ribbed Cashmere Beanie

A winter essential for hippies everywhere.

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Beret

No longer reserved for caricatures of French people, this jaunty chapeau has made its way into the popular fashion lexicon, thanks to brands like Gucci and Dior. If only there were a universally known measurement at which you could angle a beret to take it from "poseur" to "rakish."

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Janessa Leone Renee

Channel your inner French girl with this beret that's under $100.

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Yves Salomon Leopard-Print Shearling Beret

This beret is perfect if you're looking for a pop of print.

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Our Legacy Black Leather Beret

Channel your inner badass in this leather beret.

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Bucket Hat

After bucket hats went down Dior's fall/winter 2019 runway, the '90s accessory came back strong, and the fervor hasn't died down since. The style has been made from every material, from shearing to PVC, and is the perfect little topper for winter or summer.

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Lack of Color Wave Bucket Hat

Channel your inner skateboarder with this simple style form Lack of Color.

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Madewell Raffia Aden Bucket Hat

A beachy take on the bucket hat trend.

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SHEIN Leopard Pattern Bucket Hat

Pair with a leopard dress for a full animal-print look.

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Fedora

Panama hats and fedoras might look the same at first glance, but the difference is in the material. A fedora is always made of felt while panama hats are made from lightweight woven materials like the leaves of a jipijapa plant (if it's legit). Fedoras work with every outfit, so you have nothing to lose.

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Monrowe Johnny

This pale grey fedora from Monrowe is the perfect daytime accessory.

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Madewell Felt Lila Fedora Hat

This beige fedora is perfect for your next outdoors trip.

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A Sun Hat

A traditional sun hat, as the name insinuates, protects and shields your face and head from the heat. The accessory can be made from any material that's both breathable and moisture-wicking, while the brim width can be from two to four inches wide. Technically speaking, you can use any hat as your "sun" hat—but with so many cute options available, invest in a proper protective head gear.

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