Once seen as simply a fisherman’s hat used to protect from sun and other elements, the bucket hat is back and ready to make a new statement.
“Bucket hats are one of the few hats that pack and travel well. You don’t have to worry about crushing them and ruining their shape,” explains Tamara Rappa, editor-in-chief of fashion site Story + Rain. And they’re “often inexpensive, so they provide a look for less.”
When selecting a bucket hat, Rappa advises, first and foremost, to get one with “crushability,” as she puts it. “The beauty of the bucket hat is that it’s a classic that can withstand constant folding and carrying while also being able to work with a multitude of outfits.” Rappa recommends starting with the style in its most basic state: “You can never go wrong with a cotton bucket hat in a solid color, preferably in a neutral. Buy three in an array of neutrals to easily stash in a few of your bags, just like your lip balm or your wallet.”
Christen Maxwell, a Paris-based handbag and accessories designer, is also a fan of the bucket hat for folks of all ages. Maxwell wore her “fair share of floral-printed bucket hats” as a child of the ’90s and is “loving seeing them back with huge oversize brims.” She’s even introduced her infant daughter to the style for her first summer.
When styling your bucket hat, Rappa says, if it’s a simple cotton or twill option, keep it in the casual family. “Wear with jeans and a tee, a breezy linen dress and sneakers or sandals, slouchy lightweight pants with a boat-neck top or go sporty by pairing it with athleisure.” If you’re elevating it to a satin fabric or a chic print, “pair with dresses and heels or a lightweight, unstructured summer suit.”
We rounded up some of our favorite bucket hats for women, men and even babies.
Women’s bucket hats
A great budget-neutral choice: simple, cotton and priced so you can get one in multiple colors, from which there are six to choose.
This bucket hat from one of our favorite brands, Baggu, comes in a ton of adorable prints, from swirly purple to some vibrant flowers. It's a fit for all genders too.
Available in five colors, this shade-supplier is perfect for the beach or the pool.
Another versatile choice suitable for any setting, this Asos option in cream is great for the price.
Under Armour’s Pride collection supports a trio of organizations that provide safe places for LGBTQ+ athletes to play.
This one comes in this cherry print, among loads of others, and is totally affordable.
“With a wider brim, this injects the classic bucket with a little more style,” says Rappa. “It’s a perfect stark black staple.”
Garden party? Horse races? Picnic in the park with friends? This one’s in line with all of that.
“I’d wear this one for a Saturday morning farmers market and iced coffee run,” says Maxwell.
“A go-to for timeless straw hats,” Maxwell loves Lola Hats’ “classic but modern take on a color-blocked hat. This one defies trends and will be a keeper year after year.”
Specifically fashioned to resist rain — and cute to boot.
“If designer accessories are your thing and you rock a fashion-forward look, now’s the time to look for the logo’d bucket hat,” Rappa says.
This one’s a “super splurge in denim with a wide retro brim — great for summer in the city or an aperitivo along the water,” Maxwell says.
Want a denim bucket hat on a more affordable budget? Check out this top-rated pick from Free People, which features contrasting stitching.
Men’s bucket hats
For the kind of guy who is always on the go, available in black, blue or ivory.
Baby bucket hats
Available in prints like elephants, bumblebees and whales, the hat is made of breathable cotton and is machine-washable.
A soft take on the silhouette, this is Maxwell’s new baby daughter’s first bucket hat.