It’s getting hotter, and our curls need extra protection from the sun. The sun’s UV rays can be damaging to your scalp and curls by drying them out. Since many of us don’t apply sunscreen to our hair, keeping your scalp hydrated and healthy can be done with a great hair product and a trendy accessory.
I know hats can be hit and miss within the natural hair community, but the great thing is that the fashion world is catching up with us! Some businesses are dedicated to creating curl hair-specific hats for everyday wear, which is now making curly hair and hats more style-friendly.
This summer, try out any of these five summer hats, along with the hairstyles that work with each specific hat.
1. Baseball Cap
Image Source: @tress.forus
“That hat for us,” is here to make the classic baseball hat fun, trendy, and accessible for us curlies! You can buy this hat tailor-made for curly hair at Tress, an online shop that aims to make stylish accessories that are protective and functional for its customers. Styles that would work best with this accessory are a low ponytail, wash and go, or space buns since the hat is designed with textured hair in mind.
2. Bucket Hat
Image: @damn.gina.au
Going retro has never been more in style with this 90s hat, which is making a big comeback. Bucket hats are cute and trendy for a casual look that your curls will appreciate. Many of your favorite stores — like Damn Gina, BALMEE — are carrying texture, printed, and patterned versions of this throwback. You can rock lemonade braids, mini braids, or a cornrow bun to help this hat protect your curls.
3. Sun Hat
Image: @hairbrella
The sun hat never goes out of style because it’s the perfect beach or pool accessory. Sun hats come in all sizes, colors, and varieties, which is ideal for those who want options for our style. These hats represent elegance and can add flair to a bathing suit or a sundress. Hairbrella has some great selections for those who want a satin-lined and waterproof sun hat that you can take anywhere. Natural hairstyles that pair well with this hat are box braids, twist-outs, or a side-braid.
4. Visor
Image Source: @kinapparel_
I know you may think no one wears a visor anymore, or this style of hat may give you amusement park vibes, but it is a trendy summer staple! Visors protect your face and provide much-needed shade from harsh UV rays. They’re comfortable and versatile, and you can rock any updo. The standard visor has been updated with a clear rim, bold colors, and cute monograms. Kin Apparel has designed a great visor for rocking a pineapple, high ponytail, or cornrows.
5. Panama Hat
Image Source: @curlebeauty
The Panama hat is giving us Cubano vibes! It comes in several versions, including a wide brim, a monochrome look, or brims featuring patterns and bright colors. The Panama hat has been a summer staple for years and is an excellent accessory for pairing with a stylish or casual look. It will provide 360-degree shade for your face, hair, and neck, making it an essential part of your beach bag. This type of hat can be purchased online from retailers like Amazon. Natural hairstyles that work well with this look are a side braid, low bun, or goddess locs.
Protecting your face and hair in the summer heat should always be a high priority, whether that means packing sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat. These are great options for creating versatile and stylish looks that can pair well with any summertime outfit. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a hairstyle that works best for the individual hat.
Show us your hat-adorned curls in the comments section, below!
