The best way to keep the sun off your face? With the best ethical hats for summer, of course!
By Chiara Spagnoli Gabardi
Summertime is one of my favourite, but most problematic times of the year. I love the sun, but I really don’t like getting a tan. I desperately try to protect my complexion from its rays. Sure, I’ve tried several sunscreens, from 50 SPF to 110 SPF. But I’ve found that the most effective (and stylish!) option is to have a physical shield, like sunglasses or ethical hats for summer weather.
Hats are always a welcome accessory on the beach, but some styles don’t really suit city outfits. But here, I’ve tried to include a mix of sustainable vegan summer hats for every situation. What’s your favourite?
Main image credit here. Image below here.
The Best Ethical Hats For Summer
1. Artisanal Mexican Hat
Do you like your hats to be super ethical? This Mexican hat by Pajara Pinta is for you!
The brand aims to preserve time-honored artisanal traditions from local artisans around the world with their work. For example? This unique hat was developed with female artisans from both Nariño, Colombia and Oaxaca, Mexico.
Those who make these hats are paid over fair wages, and to keep things sustainable, these hats are made-to-order only.
Best for: Supporting indigenous artisans.
Price: $200
2. Grosgrain Band Hat
If you’re looking for ethical hats for summer that can be rolled up in your suitcase, this is the one for you! The pale-pink and white grosgrain ribbon that’s detailed with the brand’s signature ‘M’ stamp, truly gives it a touch of finesse. And Maison Michel makes all their hats by hand.
Why not match the look with a straw bag?
Best for: Travelling
Price: $670
3. Sustainable Straw Hat
Is there anything more perfect for summer than a glamorous straw hat? This one is made from just that: pure straw. And it looks great with everything from a bikini to a jacket and jeans. Who says you have to spend a lot to be ethical – and gorgeous?
Best for: This is one of the best ethical hats for summer for those on a budget
Price: Around $26
4. Desa Visor
If you want to wear a stunningly sculptural creation, the Desa will fit the bill. This is one of our favourite ethical hats for summer! It’s an artistically exaggerated visor composed of spiraling natural woven shapes in five concentric circles around the banding. A daring piece where design and function meet!
Great for the beach, sure. But this hat is fancy enough to wear to Wimbledon or weddings.
Best for: Wearing to events. And serious fashionistas!
Price: Around $475
5. Artesano Bolero
The Artesano label brings their boleros to life by the craftsmanship of communities in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The founders of the brand, Claudia Estrada and Xavier Blum, thoroughly care about preserving the artisanal traditions in this region. Their black Toquilla straw provides an eco-glamorous allure like no other.
Best for: Helping to preserve artisan crafting communities in Ecuador
Price: $195
6. Reclaimed Vintage Cap
Not all of us are fans of the straw hat. Some prefer the classic American baseball cap, and why not? They’re super practical, easy to pack, and work for outdoor workouts, too.
This one is made of reclaimed materials, and its natural ecru colour suits just about every skin tone!
Best for: Outdoor sports
Price: $11.50 – bargain!
7. Striped Fedora
This striped style is one of the best ethical hats for summer! It coalesces modern designs with classic artisanal expertise. The brim is the perfect length to shield you from the sun’s rays, without being too overwhelming. Made in Italy from paper straw, it features a striking grosgrain ribbon around the crown.
Best for: Matching with summer city outfits.
Price: Around $150
8. Rollable Paper Straw Hat
Don’t you hate how when you’re going on holiday, your hat get squashed? It’s a perennial problem. But not if you own this style!
This ethical hat has been made entirely from paper straw. And the best part? You can just roll it up and throw it in your bag, wherever you are. And it will still look fab!
Best for: Those who travel a lot.
Price: Around $150
9. Straw Cowgirl Hat
This is a classic summer look! Just look at how model Sarah Marie rocks this number. Straw cowgirl hats look best embellished: feel free to add a cloth band or scarf to the brim to make yours really unique. Looking for a similar style? Check out this one from ethical brand Mar Y Sol.
Best for: Instagramming, as Sarah Marie demonstrates! Also, for Boho babes who holiday in places like Ibiza or Bali
Price: $148
Image credit: @sarah_marie8 on Instagram
10. Ethical Bucket Hat
Hey, 90s nostalgia lovers! This bucket style is one of the best ethical hats for summer for you. It features organic cotton terry cloth in a neutral hue, and it’s also unisex. Perfect for festivals, or sharing with your partner! It’s definitely one of the most essential accessories you could own.
Best for: Travelling. It not only packs easily and keeps the sun off your face, but it’s super easy to wash. And if you get it wet, no problem. It won’t lose its shape like a straw hat might.
Price: Around $20
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