Phil Oh
Street-style stars show why the bucket hat is an investment piece, and how to style the comfy headwear.
Despite originally being a utilitarian accessory, bucket hats have long drifted within pop culture and fashion. From its origins in fishing gear to an appearance in the 1960s mod era, then further on as a hip-hop staple, there’s just something about the hat that we can’t seem to let go of.
Each year, yet another streetwear or high fashion brand comes out with its own rendition of the bucket hat, and celebrities are all for it. Billie Eilish was one such star spotted wearing a version from Gucci, along with a matching coat and fingerless gloves, at the Grammys. Meanwhile, Rihanna was photographed capping off her date-night look with a textured mint green rendition from Prada.
A writeup by Bambina Olivares at a recent exhibition for the Metropolitan Museum of Manila titled “The Hat of the Matter” described how Filipinos are not known for their affinity for hats. She challenged the notion, however, by noting that we had the perfect climate for it, and that records show that hats were quite common for pre-colonial Filipinos.
In keeping with that challenge, and as the ber-months roll in, see five street-style inspirations to convince you to consider the ever-ready, historically rich bucket hat this holiday season:
Phil Oh1/5Utilitarian Ease On The Go
Your future bucket hat is worn best as a utilitarian yet accent piece of headwear for any outfit on the go. Whether neutral-toned or brightly colored, there’s something about a simple cloth bucket-hat that gives a sense of ease to any outfit. Consider the nylon bucket hat in your choice of color from Prada.
Phil Oh2/5Elegant and Polished
With a little bit of structure, and a little bit of plaid, bucket hats can be elevated to suit even the classiest of outfits. The Haley check bucket hat from Isabel Marant is a must for those looking for an easy, comfortable hat for more formal pursuits.
Phil Oh3/5The High-Low Accessory
Bucket hats and utility bags are a great way to add a more casual balance to an otherwise dressy outfit. If there’s anything Anna Wintour’s first Vogue cover with the couture Lacroix t-shirt and denim jeans taught us, it’s that a good mix of high and low is always more interesting. Try out this denim-printed bucket hat from Loewe.
Phil Oh4/5Furry Proposition
Like all pieces of clothing, different varieties emerge as new propositions every so often. Last year, was all about the furry bucket hat, but its popularity hasn’t waned as this fashion week’s attendees have demonstrated. The fluffy faux fur accessory, like this Cloud Bucket from Emma Brewin is a fun touch to add onto a toned-down outfit. Otherwise, opt for the 2022 iteration; the crochet bucket hat.
Phil Oh5/5A Pop Of Color
Statement pieces and colors have a way of bringing new life to wardrobe staples. Do so by going oversized, like this bucket hat from Jacquemus, or by color-matching several bright pieces to tie together a look.
