How to Wear a Bucket Hat

After originally rising in popularity in the late 1980s hip hop scene, bucket hats have recently made a big comeback in the fashion world. Bucket hats are most often associated with casual outfits, but there are plenty of ways to put your own personal spin on this classic piece of headwear. Pulling off one of these hats can be tricky, but anyone can wear a bucket hat with the right approach and style.

EditSteps

EditChoosing Your Bucket Hat

1. Choose a material that matches your style. Most bucket hats are made from cotton, but they can be made using a lot of different materials. The material you choose should depend on the individual style you are going for, and the weather in your area. ^[1]
   
   • Cotton bucket hats are better for warmer temperatures.
   • Denim bucket hats are great for colder weather.
   • Nylon bucket hats are typically used for outdoor activities like fishing or camping.
   • Bucket hats made using furry or fuzzy material are a good idea if you want to grab people’s attention.
2. Find your ideal type of bucket hat. Bucket hats come in many different shapes and sizes. Bucket hats meant to protect from the sun usually have larger brims, while more stylistic bucket hats typically have smaller brims. You also may want a bucket hat with a chin strap or a reversible bucket hat that features two designs in one. ^[2]
   
3. Decide which brand works for you. If you want a nostalgic look, a bucket hat featuring a classic clothing brand's logo would be right for you. There are also bucket hats available from more expensive, upscale fashion brands. Looking for a more subtle look? There are plenty of bucket hats available that don’t promote an obvious logo or brand. ^[3]
   
4. Express your individuality with your favorite color or design pattern. Bucket hats are available in almost any color or design you can imagine. From bright colors to abstract patterns, choose a look that expresses your individual style.^[4]
   
   • Tie dye bucket hats are great for an eye catching casual outfit.
   • Camouflage bucket hats are fashionable both indoors and outside.
   • Bucket hats featuring solid colors can really bring an outfit together.

EditCreating a Casual Style

1. Wear your bucket hat at an angle for a casual feel. The way you wear your bucket hat will express your personality and style. You can adjust your bucket hat to create many different looks and vibes depending on your mood. Place your bucket hat on your head at an angle to create a laid back, easy going look.
   
   • If you want a more serious style, position your bucket hat straight on your head to cover most of your forehead and eyes. ^[5]
2. Roll up the brim for a change of pace. This can create a whole new vibe for your outfit, and often changes the entire look of your bucket hat. Whether you want to change up your style or stand out from others wearing bucket hats, rolling up your brim can add a personal touch to your hat. ^[6]
   
3. Keep your outfit simple with jeans and a t-shirt. A bucket hat can really bring together a casual outfit for that Sunday brunch or trip to the store. Compliment your bucket hat with a simple t-shirt and pair of jeans, khakis, or shorts. Add a pair of classic basketball sneakers or trainers to finish your outfit. ^[7]
   
   • Add a blazer or patterned collared shirt to your outfit for a more semi-formal, but still laid back, style.
   • Pairing your bucket hat with a matching dress or top / skirt combination creates another simple but stylish look.
4. Wear your bucket hat with a sweatshirt and joggers for a stylish winter look. If the weather is colder, throw on a hoodie and pair of sweatpants. A pair of boots or sneakers can bring this type of outfit together.
   
   • If it’s really cold outside add a bomber jacket to create a contemporary, stylish outfit.
   • A matching scarf or pair of gloves can complement your bucket hat during the winter.
5. Don't forget to color coordinate. If you are wearing a colorful bucket hat, you will want to wear more neutral colored clothes. That way, you can draw attention to your new hat. If your bucket hat is a more neutral color, consider wearing a matching shirt or pair of shoes to color coordinate your outfit. ^[8]
   

EditAccessorizing Your Bucket Hat

1. Use pins to express yourself. Bucket hats are perfect for pins. Place a few pins on the brim of your hat or on the front or back of the hat. Express your individuality and opinions, or just show support for your favorite bands, movies, and brands.
   
   • Strategically place one or two pins on your bucket hat for more subtly.
   • Cover your bucket hat in pins for a more loud and DIY look.
2. Add a patch for a cleaner look. If you want to personalize your bucket hat, but don't want a messy look, consider patches. Sewing or ironing a patch, or series of patches, will make your bucket hat completely unique and personalized, while also creating a very clean and put together look. ^[9]
   
3. Complete your outfit with glasses and jewelry. Wearing a bucket hat calls attention to your upper body, so why not pair your bucket hat with some stylish sunglasses or a necklace. Color coordinating or contrasting these accessories with your bucket hat can help your outfit pop. ^[10]
   
   • Add a gold chain necklace for a classic hip hop look.
   • Large hoop earrings are a vintage bucket hat accessory that still work today.

EditReferences

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