I’ve always adored hats—especially in summer when the sun is shining and the excuses to wear them keep popping up. So, I’ve curated top designer picks and wallet-friendly look‑for‑less alternatives that capture the same vibe. These hats aren’t just stylish; most are crafted to be durable, packable, and protective thanks to their tight weaves—a key indicator of quality.

Shop a variety of styles below and then scroll down to find out:

• What to look for in a quality straw hat
• How to care for your straw hats
• Stylist tips for traveling with straw hats

(Note: clicking on the following products will take you right to them! If you choose to purchase something, WWTNT may get a commission at no additional fee to you. But don’t worry, being a seasoned stylist, I only choose products I truly value and think will successfully meet your needs.)

 

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Fedora & Panama-Style Sun Hats

A large brim frames your face beautifully and adds a touch of mystery when tilted just so. Plus, many packable fedoras are ideal beach and travel companions.

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Colorful & Patterned Hats

Want instant glamour? Go bold with bright, wide-striped straw hats that pair well with everything from swimwear to sundresses.

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Bolero-Style Hats

Ideal for breezy lakeside or coastal days: wide brims with a secure bolero tie—windproof and stylish.

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Straw Rancher Hats

For weekend events or casual outings, these hats bring a laid-back attitude and excellent sun coverage.

 

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Floppy Sun Hats

The ultimate summer statement. With wide, soft brims that ripple in the breeze, floppy straw hats bring instant elegance—whether you’re poolside or strolling through a farmer’s market. They’re romantic, dramatic, and flattering on nearly everyone.

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Bucket Hats

These low-profile, casual hats are making a strong comeback—and for good reason. They offer just enough brim to shade your face, and their crushable structure makes them ideal for stuffing into a tote or beach bag without worry. Wear them with swimsuits, tank dresses, or denim for an effortless, trend-forward look.

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Professional Pick: The One I’m Wearing

I’m sporting the Eric Javits wide-brim ‘Daphne’ fedora—a splurge-worthy investment that’s classic, durable, and timeless. I look forward to taking her out each summer! But don’t worry, this post includes several lower-cost alternatives if you’re not ready to commit.

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What to Look for in a Quality Straw Hat

Not all straw hats are created equal. Keep an eye out for:

• Tight, even weave — Blocks more UV rays and lasts longer
• Reinforced crown — Helps it hold shape through wear and travel
• Brim width — 3″+ gives the most sun protection
• Interior sweatband — Adds comfort and prevents staining
• UPF rating — If listed, UPF 30+ is ideal for serious sun shielding

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How to Care for Your Straw Hats

Cleaning:
Wipe gently with a soft, damp cloth—no soap needed unless you’re tackling sweat stains, in which case a little diluted white vinegar does the trick. Always air dry, and avoid direct sunlight or heat.

Reshaping:
If your hat gets crushed, hold it over a steaming pot (carefully!) and reshape it with your hands. Let it dry fully on a hat stand or stuffed with tissue paper.

Storage:
Keep your hats looking pristine by storing them on a hat stand or shelf with the crown down (not the brim). During the off-season, wrap them in tissue paper or slip them into a dust bag to avoid dust and fading.

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Shape Up!

Maintain your hats’ shape with hat stands (see recommendations below). And during the off-season, store them with dust covers or tissue to keep everything crisp.

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Traveling With Straw Hats

Pack it like a pro:
Fill the crown with soft clothing—like socks, scarves, or underwear—to help hold its shape. Then lay the hat flat in your suitcase and pack clothing snugly around the brim to prevent it from bending.

Pro tip:
If your suitcase is tight on space, opt for a foldable straw hat labeled as “packable” or “crushable.” (I’ve included several in this post!)

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Whether you’re a hat fanatic like me or just looking for simple sun protection, there’s a perfect straw style (or budget twin) waiting for you.

Happy shopping—and here’s to sunny days and stylish shade!

Speaking of shade—check out these look for (way!) less sunglasses!

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Finding the look for less is just one of the many stylist tricks of the trade you’ll learn in my Master Class  How To Shop Like a Hollywood Stylist (So You Can Shine Like a Star!).

I’ll also teach you invaluable shopping tips, how to curb impulse shopping, choosing outfits for tricky occasions, successfully shopping online, and so much more! 

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL YOU’LL LEARN!