What are bucket hats actually called?

Cloth hat with a downward-sloping brim

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A bucket hat (alternatively referred to as a fisherman's hat, Irish country hat, or session hat) is characterized by its narrow, downward-sloping brim. These hats are commonly manufactured from durable cotton materials like denim or canvas, or heavy wool such as tweed. They sometimes feature metal eyelets on the crown for ventilation.

Originally a high fashion item in the 1960s, the bucket hat has seen repeated resurges in both street fashion and on formal runways. Today, it is a favored accessory at festivals, where it's often called a "session hat."

Historical Roots of the Bucket Hat

The bucket hat, also known as the fishing hat, is believed to have been introduced around 1900. Initially crafted from wool felt or tweed cloth, these hats were predominantly worn by Irish farmers and fishermen for rain protection, as the lanolin in raw wool made them naturally water-resistant. During the interwar period, these "Irish walking hats" quickly gained popularity in international country settings due to their portability and ease of cleaning. They could be folded to fit inside a coat pocket and cleaned with a damp sponge or reshaped with steam.

The modern bucket hat originated from a tropical hat made from olive drab cotton issued to the US Army during the Vietnam War. These lightweight hats became popular among civilians for sports like fishing and sun protection.

The Bucket Hat as a Fashion Statement

During the 1960s, the bucket hat was adapted into women's fashion, similar to styles like the pillbox and cloche hats. Designers such as Lilly Daché used felt and other stiffer fabrics to create the mod look. The traditional tweed Irish walking hat remained fashionable among professional men until the 1970s. Sean Connery's character in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" famously wore it.

The 1980s saw the hat's adoption by rappers, cementing its place in street fashion into the 1990s. Recently, celebrities like Rihanna have brought it back into vogue on the fashion catwalk.

Notably, bucket hats were at the center of a controversy during the 2022 FIFA World Cup when Qatari officials confiscated LGBTQ+ supportive rainbow-colored Wales bucket hats from fans. Former Wales women's football captain Laura McAllister was one of the individuals affected, sparking international attention.

Regional Variations and Common Names

Bucket hats go by various names and can differ slightly in style depending on the region. In some areas, they are also called "Hutbürger" or "Bengali hats."

The Bucket Hat in Pop Culture

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bucket Hats

1. What materials are typically used to make bucket hats?

Bucket hats are generally made from durable cotton fabrics such as denim or canvas and sometimes heavy wool like tweed. Modern versions also come in polyester and waterproof materials.

2. Why are bucket hats sometimes called session hats?

The term "session hat" is popular at festivals to describe a laid-back, stylish hat that can be worn during long sessions of music and social gatherings.

3. What practical uses did the original bucket hats serve?

The first bucket hats provided rain protection for farmers and fishermen. Their waterproof nature and easy maintenance made them a practical choice for outdoor activities.

A Brief History of the Bucket Hat

Bucket hats, also known as fisherman hats, have been a popular headwear style for over a century. Originating in the early 1900s, they were introduced as practical accessories for outdoor tasks like fishing and hunting, with their wide brims offering protection from the sun. The hat's crown sits low on the head, providing additional sun protection.

In the 1960s and 1970s, bucket hats entered the fashion world, symbolizing youthful rebellion and becoming popular among hippies and surfers. Available in various colors and patterns, they were worn by both men and women.

The hat's popularity dipped in the 1980s and 1990s but saw a resurgence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming a staple in hip-hop fashion. Prominent artists like LL Cool J and Missy Elliott donned bucket hats, cementing their status in urban culture.

Bucket hats continue to be versatile and widely available, suitable for various outdoor activities. Brands like Wrap Life offer bucket hats made of 100% cotton and lined with satin.

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