Summer Style: Tips for Finding a Flattering Hat

In the summer, the hat is often the last item the average man considers to put on as part of his outfit. Most guys invest their attention on flattering shorts, Cuban collar shirts  and cool sunglasses, and don't have the time to bother with hats. Or if they do, they just put on that promotional baseball hat a friend gave them. But when summer is here, there are many reasons why you need a good hat.

For one, a hat is more than just a trendy accessory in the summer. It's what protects the delicate skin on your head and face from the harmful ultraviolet sun rays. And with Australia having some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, you may want to take extra steps to shield yourself from the harsh summer sun.

Then there's also the fact that hats help make you appear taller. A study showed that man who wore hats were perceived as an extra 5 centimetres taller than they actually were. Additionally, a hat can help set you apart from the crowd of average looking dudes. Wearing a hat is rare these days, especially wearing one with style and confidence. So, let's look at some tips that can help you bring your best hat game on.

Pick the Right Style and Shape

From caps to straw fedoras, panamas, tilleys, chinstrap hats and more – men's hats for sale are available in a variety of styles and shapes to choose from. When you stand in the hot Australian sun, you'll need a hat with a wide brim that extends all around your head. In other words, styles like panamas and fisherman hats are ideal for protecting the back of your neck and your entire face. The baseball cap, although a super cool accessory when used right, should only be worn on days when the sun isn't so harsh. Spring and early autumn are ideal for bringing out your baseball cap collection.

Pay Attention to the Material and Weave

Some of the best men's hats for sale are made of quality plant fibres and woven in a way that allows them to create airflow while blocking UV rays at the same time. Usually, these hats come at higher prices. A panama hat that's made of quality fibres and tool months to be woven will obviously cost more. On the other hand, the quality construction also means that the hat will retain its shape and won't easily get damaged – offering years of use and great value for money.

Check the Airflow

You know the uncomfortable feeling of wearing a hat that's too clingy and causes your head to sweat profusely. You don't want to experience this. For that reason, avoid gummed-up straw hats that prevent air from flowing through the crown. Even though they may be lightweight, these types of hats can feel like wearing a plastic bag in the sun. Look for a hat that has vents or has a mesh crown that can increase airflow.

Make Sure It Fits

And finally, you want your hat to fit properly and not look funny on you. Additionally, if the hat is too tight and can cause your head to hurt and make you feel lightheaded. On the other hand, if it's too loose, it can easily fall off or be blown away by the wind. To make sure the hat stays in place, look for a design that features a quality leather sweatband. This will help the hat stay secure around your head. An elastic sweatband can also work, however, it's less durable and won't withstand extended wear.

However, the shape of your face can also affect whether a hat looks good on you or not. For instance, if you have a long and thin face, pick a hat with a low crown and a brim that can be tilted downward. This type of hat can help to visually shorten your face. On the other hand, if you have a round or plump face, opt for styles with a wide brim that you can tilt upward. A wider brim with a high crown can make a larger forehead less noticeable.

Proper Hat Etiquette

When wearing a hat as a staple piece in the summer, you also have the responsibility to wear it like a gentleman. Hats are notorious for having strict etiquette rules which is why some guys don't want to be bothered with them. However, by sticking to proper hat etiquette, you will show that your style doesn't only extend to finding flattering headwear but to your manners also. So, here are the rules you need to know.

Take off your hat every time you enter a room, whether that's an elevator, shop, restaurant, or your friend's home.

• It's impolite to wear a hat during a meal.
• When greeting someone on the street without stopping to talk, touch the brim of your hat lightly.
• If you meet a female acquaintance in public, raise the hat by the crown.
• If you're standing up during the national anthem, remove your hat and place it over your heart.