How To Wear A Bucket Hat: 7 Outfit Ideas For 2023

If you asked a fisherman how to wear a fishing hat, he would probably say on his head when it’s raining. Not exactly an informative comment but an honest one. Originally worn in the 1900s by farmers and fishermen to protect them from the elements, the bucket hat has evolved into fashion wear over the years. They were big in the ’80s and ’90s. Now they’re back and provide a stylish complement to many outfits. A bucket hat is an accessory you can take anywhere as it’s easy to fold and pop into your bag. Plus, how to wear your bucket hat is straightforward, whatever the season.

Let’s start off with how to style your bucket hat if you’re not a fisherman or farmer—although they can be fashionistas too—and discover the ways to rock your bucket hat look.

How To Wear Your Hair With A Bucket Hat

These hats have a clearly defined shape, with a flat top and a downwards-slanting wide brim. Usually made of flexible fabric, you can adjust the brim by flipping it up for better viewing when wearing a bucket hat. Double-layered bucket hats are usually made from densely-woven cottons, like canvas, twill or quilting cotton. Then there are bucket hats made from denim which are so easy to pair with many outfits. 

Whether your hair’s long or short, there’s a way to style a bucket hat properly. They have tall crowns, which makes them more versatile style-wise, and they can be pulled down close to your eyes or sit high on your head. The choice is yours.

Curly Hair? Here’s How To Wear A Bucket Hat 

• For longer hair, part your curls into 3 sections at the sides and back and top it off by wearing a bucket hat for women.
• If you have a short curls look, just let your hair free and wear a bucket hat of your choice.
• Another way is to part your hair, making 2 low buns and leaving a few strands loose in the front of your bucket hat.

How To Style A Bucket Hat With Long Hair 

Want to know how to wear a bucket hat with your hair au natural? This is the easiest of looks, as long hair is so hat-friendly. You can leave it loose, loosely braided or in a messy bun because however you want to wear your long hair, you’ll rock a bucket hat.

Want to know how to wear a bucket hat with a ponytail? The easiest way is to choose a bucket hat with a ponytail hole. Bucket hats can also work well with low ponytails as long as the bucket hat sits loose and comfy on your head.

Want to know how to wear a bucket hat with braids? Whether you have 2 side braids, all-over small braids or fish-tail braids, you’ll suit the look. Couple with wide-legged pants and your favourite tee for instant street cred.

How To Wear A Bucket Hat With Short Hair

Bucket hats are versatile, but if your hair is short, look for a style that complements your face. A shorter brim, so the hat doesn’t overwhelm your face, is perfect. If your hair is very short, learn how to wear a headband to keep your hair in place or use clips to make the bucket hat feel more secure on your head. Add trending sunglasses 2023 or statement earrings to add interest to your look.

7 Ideas For Adding Style To How To Wear A Bucket Hat

1. Bucket Hat With Leather

Animal print, patterned, striped or checked bucket hats look very fashionable when worn with a black leather jacket. Now you know how to wear your bucket hat in winter and still look cool.

2. Bucket Hat With Loungewear

You’ll combine two on-trend looks when wearing a bucket hat with loungewear. As this is a weekend chillout look, go for denim, cute graphics or tie-dye for your bucket hat to achieve that laid-back, casual style.

3. Bucket Hat With Bathing Suits

Heading for the beach, lake or outdoor pool and want to look casual but still make a fashion statement? That's where wearing a bucket hat comes in. Choose a breathable fabric and go for a sunny, bright colour that tones or contrasts with your swimwear or coverup. Lightweight crochet bucket hats work really well. Crochet is very fashionable now, and a bucket hat in straw-like yarn will go with an assortment of beach outfits and keep you looking on-trend.

4. Bucket Hat For Cold Weather Wear

When thinking about how to wear a bucket hat in winter, consider wearing a wool, leather or denim bucket hat that will keep you warm but not compromise on style. For an extra layer of warmth learn how to tie a headscarf to wear under your bucket hat.

5. Bucket Hat With Summer Florals

It’s not difficult to decide how to wear a bucket hat during warmer months because they work well with most styles. They’ll also keep your face and hair protected from the sun. 

• Add a plain coloured bucket hat to your patterned outfits for a cool summer vibe. 
• For cottagecore, boho prints and flowy dresses, match or contrast the colour of your bucket hat to make a bold statement.
• A printed bucket hat can bring your printed or floral look together, giving you a street-smart summer look.

6. Bucket Hat With Layered Clothing

Keeping on trend in 2023 and knowing how to wear your bucket hats with layered clothing is easy. Keep your choice simple. You want to complement your layered look and not overdo it so you look like you’re drowning in fabric.

7. Bucket Hat With Oversized Tops

Everyone loves an oversized top, be it a t-shirt or sweatshirt over straight-leg pants or biker shorts. For a more fashionista look, it’s time to add a chic bucket hat. It keeps the look casual yet trendy. Choose a patterned or solid colour, just as long as it tones or contrasts with the colours of your outfit. A bucket hat in white can look great when you want an 80s vibe. Or you can shout out with a bright colour which is also on trend for 2023.

Final Bucket Hat Tips

To present a fashionable 2023 stylish look, you simply need to be confident in how to wear a bucket hat. Use our guidelines for how to style a bucket hat, how to measure hat sizes and then check out the NA-KD collection to find the bucket hats to suit your personal vibe.