The 19 Best Bucket Hats That Will Make Any '90s Icon Proud

Originally Published on BYRDIE.com
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By: Casey Clark

The chances are high that your favorite influencer or celebrity has been spotted in a bucket hat recently with the rise of '90s fashion trends. And you've probably landed on this page because you're interested in jumping on the bandwagon. Bucket hats are trending, yes, but they're a functional accessory as well, whether their purpose is to shade our face from the sun or keep our head warm in extremely low temps.

With that said, looking for the best bucket hats can be a challenge since there are so many out there. To save you some time, we’ve narrowed down our favorites into an organized list based on color, fabric, price, size range, and more.

Keep reading for the best bucket hats, plus some expert advice from stylist Leena Alsulaiman.

MEET THE EXPERT

Leena Alsulaiman is a creative mentor, strategist, stylist, and style coach based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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What To Look For in a Bucket Hat

Circumference

If you know you have a larger- or smaller-than-average head size, it's important to check the retailer's size chart and compare it to your own measurements (we answer how to measure the circumference of your head in the FAQs below). Some hats come in multiple sizes, so look for these options versus bucket hats that are only offered in one size, which is likely going to fit the average person's head.

Brim

The brim width of a bucket hat not only determines its particular style but is also the key to more or less sun protection. If you burn easily, look for wider brims that will cover more of your face and neck than shorter ones.

Material

“Textured fabrics are still trending on the runway, from crochet to distressed materials," says Alsulaiman. "[One] perk of bucket hats is their flexible design, including the vintage, distressed look, which allows for various materials. This compatibility with many fabrics means that bucket hat manufacturers can create bucket hats out of whatever textured materials are trending."

FAQ

• What is a bucket hat?

  You might already know what a bucket hat looks like, but what actually is it? Here’s how Alsulaiman describes them: “A soft hat with a narrow, downward-sloping brim that got its name from the fact that it looks like an upside-down bucket. It has become more popular in the last few years, especially with streetwear.”

• How do I style a bucket hat?

  The best part about fashion is that how you want to style a piece is up to you. However, Alsulaiman shares some insights on styling this trending fashion piece. “If you are dipping your toes into the trend, then style-wise, the way to go with bucket hats is to go with a solid color—denim is a plus," she says. "Play with textures and materials, too. Have fun with it!”

• How do I measure my head for a hat?

  While many bucket hat sizes are available in a “one size fits all” or “one size fits most,” there are some hats with size options. To figure out how to measure yourself for a hat, you need to find your head's circumference. Here’s how you do that: 

  “Use a sewing measuring tape or a string and wrap it around your head above your ears and across your eyebrows," she says. "Then stick your finger under the tape so there is a little room. There you have the head circumference. When looking at the size charts, go for the next size up if you fall between measurements.”