Ultimate Guide to Men’s Dress Hats

Men’s dress hats are an important piece of outfit to accessorize and bring out the best in a man and the outfit he’s wearing. These hats come a long way from the Ancient Greek Petasos in Thessaly, Greece, which is supposedly the first brimmed hat. They have been produced to protect the head from the sun. 

In this article, you’ll learn all about mens dress hats as we guide you through topics like the various types of hats, how to dress them up and dress them down, hats for different seasons and occasions, and where to buy men’s hats.

8 Different Types of Men’s Dress Hats

1. Fedora

One of the most popular choices for mens dress hats, the fedora holds a classic reputation in menswear. The iconic hat that we know of today as the fedora had its beginning in 1882 as a woman’s hat. It was only in 1924 that it became a men’s hat because Prince Edward of Britain was fascinated by it. It effortlessly transcended the other men’s hats and quickly gained its reputation.

Their distinguishing feature is the indented crown and pinched creases on the front part of the top. These hats usually come as part of the fedora suit package. If you’re all in on rocking that classic vibe, a fedora may be the best bet. 

2. Panama

Panama has a similar look to a fedora. But unlike fedora, which uses felt for material, this one features straw. This hat came into existence during the 1500s and has since been improved in aesthetics over the years, remaining a popular option for men’s dress hats. 

With the wide brim it features, they are great for summer and keep the sun out of your face. The straw also makes the hat more breathable and offers better comfort even under the hot sun. So, this hat is a dual package of functionality and style. 

3. Trilby

This hat may look similar to a fedora, but it has a different story. It was made in 1894 and became popular after being featured in the live performance of the novel Trilby by George du Maurier. Soon, the British aristocracy took a liking to the hat and made it popular among equestrians. 

This hat works great on petite men with slim faces. It features a brim shorter than a fedora and offers the classic elegance you’ve been hoping to achieve. 

4. Porkpie

Have you ever wondered why this hat is called porkpie? There’s nothing much behind it, just because of the way it looks. With a circular pinch in the crown, the hat looks like a literal pork pie. 

Like a fedora, the porkpie hat was also produced as a woman’s hat in the 1830s. But this hat is made of either straw or felt, thereby offering a wide range of choices. They are stylish and versatile hat options and will serve you well on a variety of occasions when you go out with a classic vibe. 

5. Straw

Straw hats are made of straw and feature a medium crown with brims that range from wide to very wide. They make the perfect casual hat choice during summer when you don’t want to get burned under the sun. Besides, they are widely available in an affordable price range. 

There are many choices to choose from with varying styles, sizes, colors, and shapes. So, a straw hat might be great to use on various casual occasions. Str hats not only greatly enhance your overall appearance with a stylish look, but they also offer an excellent job in doing what they were meant to do – to protect your head from the sun.

6. Derby

Constructed with woolen felt, this formal hat features a rounded medium crown and a short/rolled brim. The derby offers a unique vibe to the person wearing it. If you want to wear a derby, be confident about it and fit in your character for the best formal impression. 

If you wish to make a statement in a derby, dress up like a blue-collar gentleman with a 3-piece suit and matching shoes. This versatile hat remains a popular choice among both young and old.  

7. Newsboy

With a top button, eight panels, and a curved brim, the newsboy has been a popular hat choice since the 20th century. With this hat, you can go easy on the outfit. Just pair it with a casual outfit, and you’re good to go. 

The hat has a similar appearance to the flat cap. Since the material is made up of wool, these hats not only offer a man a unique sense of style but also make an ideal choice to protect your head from the cold in winter. 

8. Flat Brim (Cowboy Hat)

The cowboy hat has remained a staple hat choice since its start by John B. Stetson in 1865. The flat brim cowboy hat leaves nothing to miss. Like a blend between fedora and traditional cowboy hats, these classic and elegant hats are quite versatile. 

These flat brim cowboy hats are generally stiff to the touch and won’t crumple or crease. This makes it another low-maintenance hat that any gentleman can afford. You can put them on and rock a variety of seasons and occasions.

Men’s Dress Hats For Different Seasons

Hats are made with unique materials and offer varied results to the overall appearance and functionality. This can make anyone wonder which hats to choose for the summer and winter. The best part about hats is that they can not only improve and enhance your style statement but also serve a direct purpose in protecting your head from the different seasons. 

Wide-brimmed traditional straw hats are the best hat choice for anyone planning to enjoy their day under the hot sun in the summer sky. They offer the proper coverage and shade from the sun’s direct light. If you’re wearing a proper hat, it shouldn’t bother you even if you need to walk in the rain without an umbrella. In winter, woolen hats such as newsboys keep your head warm and the snow off of your head.

Men’s Dress Hats For Different Occasions

Whether you’re going out for a formal business or casually hanging out at a restaurant, men’s dress hats provide a stately addition to your overall appearance. For casual outdoors and gatherings, hats such as Panama and buckets make great choices. They offer a posh display of your style ethic. But remember not to ruin the whole thing with the wrong outfit. 

Men’s dress hats like fedora and porkpie are multi-functional. They can be used on both casual and semi-formal occasions and deliver a classic vibe. On the other hand, hats like the derby and flat cap are best suited for formal occasions.

Where To Buy Men’s Dress Hats?

Many online and local stores offer great mens dress hats for sale. If you’re interested in getting one for yourself, we suggest that you stick to online shops for wider options and better prices. You’ll find great selections on platforms like Amazon, Lammle’s Western Wear, Planet Cowboy, Lucchese, and Walmart. 

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