Where did straw hats originate from?

Fluent conveyors custom branded straw hat anthem branding
Ted Church
30 Aug 2022

Do you love wearing a straw hat in the summer?

Providing protection from the sun and looking pretty damn cute, straw hats are a summer staple for many women and men.

Have you ever wondered where are all the straw hats from?

If yes, then the below blog is exactly what you need.

Read on to discover where straw hats originated from. Plus, where to get the best straw hats for the summer season ahead.

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill Straw Hat by Anthem Branding 2

Key Takeaways

Definition: Straw hats are brimmed hats woven from straw or similar materials, designed for sun protection and style. Historical Origins: Straw hats have been used since medieval times in Africa and Asia and became fashionable in the 19th century among wealthy women. Styles: There are various styles of straw hats including boater hats, buntal hats, conical hats, Panama hats, and salakots, each with unique origins and designs. Styling Tips: Straw hats can be paired with different outfits for a stylish summer look, whether for beachwear, casual outings, or vintage-inspired ensembles.

What is a straw hat?

As the name suggests, a straw hat is a brimmed hat that has been woven out of straw or other straw-like materials. Designed to protect the head from the sun during the hot summer months, straw hats are now worn not just for their practicality but also for their style.

Where are all the straw hats from?

Straw hats have been worn in Africa and Asia since medieval times, predominantly during the summer months when the sun was at its hottest.

In the 19th century, wealthy women started to wear straw hats when strolling through their gardens or in the countryside.

Although nowadays straw hats are worn by men, women, and children alike, historically, they were mostly worn by men.

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill Straw Hat by Anthem Branding 1

What are the different styles of straw hats?

As with most fashion items, straw hats have evolved over time, and you can now find several different types of straw hats to choose from. These include:

Boater hat – this is a more formal style of straw hat that features a flat top and brim.

Buntal hat – this is a semi-formal hat that originated from the Philippines.

Conical hat – this straw hat was worn by farmers in Southeast Asia.

Panama hat – a more upmarket style of straw hat that was made in Ecuador.

Salakot — a conical or pointed hat that was made from rattan and originated in the Philippines.

You can also find custom hats that are made from straw which offer a more customized style experience and promise to help you stand out from the crowd.

How to wear a straw hat with style

Desnuda Tequila Straw Hat By Anthem Branding 1 1

Today, straw hats can be worn to add a touch of glam to even the most casual summer outfit, with lots of different styles, sizes, and colors to choose from.

Discover our top styling tips for wearing a straw hat below:

  • Pair a wide brim hat with a vintage dress and a cute pair of sandals
  • Combine the neutral tones of a classic straw hat with a bold print
  • Wear a wide floppy straw hat with a bikini set for beachside glam
  • Match a classic white tee and shorts set with a white Panama hat
  • Try a retro fedora hat, a printed tee, and denim shorts

Straw hats are one of the most versatile styles of hats for summer, looking just as good when worn on the beach, for an informal lunch, or for a night on the town.

Principal Ted Church
About the Author
Ted Church