What Is a Bucket Hat? History, Styles, and How to Wear It

A bucket hat is a soft, wide-brimmed hat with a downward-sloping brim that helps protect your head from the sun, rain, and wind.

It’s also called a fisherman’s hat, Irish country hat, or session hat. These are just different names people use for the same style.

It first bucket hats were worn by farmers and fishermen in Ireland who needed a lightweight, foldable hat to stay comfortable outdoors. Over time, this practical piece has evolved into a popular fashion accessory worn by people of all ages.

Let’s explore the origins of the bucket hat, its different styles, and how you can wear it today.

The History of Bucket Hats

To see why the bucket hat is still stylish today, let’s dive into the hat’s history and how it became a timeless accessory.

Early 1900s: The Beginning of the Bucket Hat

According to Wikipedia, the bucket hat first appeared in the early 1900s in Ireland, where it was first worn by farmers and fishermen to protect themselves from rain and sun.

The hats were often made from wool or tweed, which were naturally water-resistant, making them suitable for damp conditions.

One practical feature of these headwear was their foldable design. People could tuck them into a coat pocket, making them easy to carry throughout the day.

Back then, style wasn’t the focus—It was all about staying dry and comfortable.

Bucket Hats in the Military

During World War II and later in the Vietnam War, a version of the bucket hat, known as the boonie hat, became standard military gear.

Made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or nylon, these hats had small ventilation holes to keep soldiers cool in hot, humid conditions. The wide brim provided shade and rain protection, and the soft, foldable design made them easy to carry—just like the original bucket hats.

1960s-1970s: It Became a Casual Fashion Item

In the 1960s, the bucket hat became more than just outdoor gear. People started wearing it as part of everyday casual outfits.

Lighter fabrics and a variety of colors made them versatile for outdoor activities like beach trips or summer outings.

By the 1970s, bucket hats appeared in magazines, music videos, and on TV, gradually becoming a recognized casualwear item.

1980s-1990s: Hip-Hop Made Them Popular

The 1980s and 1990s saw bucket hats enter hip-hop culture. Artists like LL Cool J and Run-DMC often wore them, and brands like Kangol helped make the hats fashionable. This period cemented the bucket hat as both a style statement and a functional piece of headwear.

2000s: Lost Popularity

In the early 2000s, bucket hats declined in mainstream fashion. Many people considered them old-fashioned, though they remained practical for outdoor activities, sports, and travel.

2010s: Bucket Hat Comeback

The 2010s brought a ’90s nostalgia revival, and bucket hats returned to fashion. Designers introduced new fabrics, colors, and patterns.

Celebrities and influencers helped revive the trend by wearing bucket hats at festivals, in streetwear looks, and in casual outfits.

The Bucket Hat Today

Bucket hats are now worn by people of all ages in casual, streetwear, and high-fashion looks.

Brands like Supreme, Gucci, and Stüssy offer a variety of colors and patterns. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest help keep the trend alive, with influencers pairing them with tracksuits, sneakers, or casual outfits.

Whether for protection or as a simple fashion accessory, the bucket hat remains a versatile, practical, and stylish choice.

What Are Bucket Hats Used For

Bucket hats are mainly used for sun protection, casual fashion, and outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, or gardening.

Their wide brims help shield your face and neck from harmful UV rays, rain, and wind, making them a handy and practical headwear for spending time outside.

People also wear bucket hats as a casual fashion item. They go well with jeans, t-shirts, streetwear, or summer outfits. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and work well for both style and practical use outdoors.

Common Materials Used in Bucket Hats

Bucket hats come in a variety of materials depending on the season and intended use. Here are some of the most common options:

1. Cotton

Cotton is a popular choice because it’s lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, making it ideal for warm days and casual wear.

Its soft texture also makes it easy to fold and carry, which is why cotton bucket hats are a practical piece for travel or everyday use.

2. Canvas

Canvas is thicker and sturdier than cotton, holding its shape well. This makes it suitable for outdoor activities or heavy-duty use. Canvas bucket hats are durable and reliable, perfect for longer adventures or more rugged conditions.

3. Nylon or Polyester

These synthetic fabrics are often used in rain gear or water-resistant bucket hats. They dry quickly and usually come with a slightly stiffer brim, offering extra sun and rain protection.

4. Denim

Denim bucket hats are mainly worn for fashion purposes. Their heavier fabric gives a laid-back, stylish vibe, making them popular in streetwear or vintage-inspired outfits.

5. Terry Cloth

Terry cloth has a soft, towel-like texture and is commonly used for summer or beachwear. It absorbs moisture well and adds a casual, relaxed feel, perfect for poolside lounging or vacation outfits.

Each material gives a bucket hat a different look and function, whether you’re wearing it for style, sun protection, or practicality.

Popular Types of Bucket Hats

Bucket hats come in several styles to suit different needs and tastes. Here are some of the most popular types:

1. Bucket Hat with the Band

This style has a fabric band around the crown for a clean, simple look. It usually has two stitched eyelets on each side for ventilation, keeping your head cool on warmer days. The soft inner headband adds comfort for long wear, and the hat is foldable, making it easy to pack and carry.

2. Flat-Top Bucket Hat

The flat-top style has a straight, flat crown instead of the usual rounded shape, giving it a more structured, modern look. It pairs well with sporty streetwear or casual outfits for a sharp, trendy vibe.

3. Round-Top Bucket Hat

This classic style features a soft, rounded crown and a wide, downward-sloping brim. It’s relaxed look makes it perfect for travel or carrying in your bag for everyday outdoor use.

4. Bucket Hat with String

A bucket hat with a string or chin strap is practical for windy conditions or outdoor activities like hiking or fishing. The string keeps the hat secure without changing its simple, classic style.

5. Reversible Bucket Hat

Reversible hats are practical and versatile, perfect for everyday use or when you’re on the go. It’s rollable and easy to pack, making it great for vacations, trips, or outdoor activities. The best part is that it’s wearable on both sides, giving you two different hat styles in one.

7 Tips on How to Wear a Bucket Hat

Wearing a bucket hat can be easy and stylish if you keep a few things in mind:

1. Pick the Right Material for the Season

Choose a hat that fits the weather. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or nylon work best for hot days, keeping you cool. For colder or rainy weather, pick wool, fleece, or water-resistant fabrics.

2. Make Sure It Fits Your Head Properly

Most bucket hats fit head sizes between 56–58 cm, which works for most people. The hat shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. A proper fit means the hat stays on easily without slipping or squeezing your head.

3. Wear It Straight or Tilted for Style

You can wear your hat straight for a neat look, or tilt it slightly forward, backward, or to the side for a casual, laid-back style. Just make sure it feels secure and doesn’t slip when you move.

4. Match It with Your Outfit

Bucket hats go well with relaxed casual clothing, like t-shirts, hoodies, shorts, or summer dresses. If the hat is bright or patterned, keep your outfit simple. Plain hats allow for bolder outfit pieces.

5. Try a Monochrome or Contrast Look

A monochrome look means matching the hat with the your outfit color for a coordinated style. For a contrasting look, choose a hat color that is different from your outfit.

6. Style It by Season

In summer, pair your hat with light, casual clothes and bright or pastel colors like t-shirts and shorts. In winter, wear it with jackets, scarves, or layers. For rainy days, choose a waterproof hat with a raincoat, and boots.

7. Keep Accessories Simple

Since bucket hats already stand out, keep the rest of your outfit minimal. Skip large scarves, bold jewelry, or flashy items for a clean and balanced look.

With these tips, you can wear a bucket hat with confidence. But if you’d like more general advice, here’s a guide on how to wear a hat properly.

Are Bucket Hats in Style in 2025

Yes! Bucket hats are trendy in 2025. They’re no longer just for sun protection or outdoor activities; they’ve become a popular fashion item for all ages.

Celebrities like Rihanna and Pharrell Williams have been spotted wearing bucket hats, and even top fashion brands like Gucci and Prada include them in their collections, showing that they’re still relevant in the fashion world.

These hats are simple, stylish, and practical accessories, perfect for updating your outfit or protecting yourself from the sun.

The Bottom Line

Bucket hats started as practical gear for farmers and fishermen, but over time, they became a popular fashion accessory. Today, they’re worn by people of all ages for sun protection, casual wear, and outdoor activities.

Dermatologists often recommend wearing sun hats to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Experts like Dr. Bailey highlight bucket hats as a great choice because they are comfortable, functional, and look good too.

If you want a hat that’s easy to wear, versatile, and looks good, a bucket hat is a reliable choice for both style and practicality.

FAQs About Bucket Hats