Headgear is an accessory created out of necessity to protect the head and face from the harsh effects of the natural elements and climatic conditions. Through the ages, the position of headgear (caps and hats) has evolved from necessity to protect and identifying gear for warriors until it made its place in society, where a hat or cap symbolized class, elitism, respect, and also the profession. Sports brought socially significant headgear out of its limitations by making it a part of their uniform and a space for the sponsors to advertise their logos and products.
Caps for men have an enriching history and have traveled a long way to reach the mainstream, where they have become a part of almost every boy and man’s wardrobe. A few iconic caps are a must-have in your stylish wardrobe.
Must-have caps for all seasons
Going by the general popularity, few caps take precedence from the wide range of headgear for men.
- Beanie: The cap for the season, the beanie is a hot favorite among trendy and stylish men, where even celebrities are sporting this smug fitting cap, albeit with a slight alteration to the original design. Created as winter wear, the beanies have evolved into trans-seasonal and timeless caps for men, barring when summer is touching higher degrees. A versatile cap that goes well with casual streetwear and easily fits in with sleek wear, with generation Z wearing them with their power suits to meetings. Buy an all-season cap in a neutral shade of thin, breathable material for comfort. Of course, don’t forget to wash it regularly!
- The trucker hat: Created in the 1970s for truckers. It is now one of the most popular caps. A casual everyday cap with a close-fitting crown and peaked cap that protects from the sun. A good choice for outdoor activities, hanging out with friends, or running errands, the cap is available in many colors and features logos of your favorite sports team and brands and symbols reflecting your life philosophy or beliefs.
- Fedora: A hat which the cowboy in you can never say no to, the fedora has stood the test of time, beginning its journey as the symbol of the gangsters till the 1950s, transitioning to the hipster’s choice in the 2000s. Fedora, deemed the most revolutionary and polarising accessory for men, has catapulted once again to rank as one of the hot favorites. It looks smashing with a rugged ensemble, adding a mysterious edge to your style.
- Snapback cap: Beginning as a baseball cap that became a rage, the New York snapback was popularised by Yankees fans. Lately, the snapback holds a place of pride among fashionistas, cap connoisseurs, sportspersons, and cool kids around the globe. The snapback gets its name from the adjustable fastener at the back. This cap for men adds a relaxed vibe to any outfit despite its structured design, which makes it more rigid than its vintage cousin. Pick a smart one from the vast collection of caps for men by the U.S. Polo Assn.
- Bucket hat: Fashion travels in cycles, bringing back vintage fashion to trend in the present, just as the vintage bucket hat is now a hot favorite. A humble hat worn by the fisherman has become the cap of choice for the skater and musical subcultures. Typically made in sturdy yet airy fabrics like denim or twill, the bucket cap mimics an upside-down bucket with its wide, downward-slanting brim. A perfect cap to protect you from the sun while adding to your cool quotient.
- Panama hat: The mere sight of this hat reminds one of the mafia and the Dons, adding the coveted touch of stylized mystery with a hint of danger. Originating in Ecuador as a traditional brimmed straw hat, the Panama hat is now made from plaited leaves, keeping its original allure intact. A must-have for your tropical holidays and days by the seaside. A hat that belongs to the vast blue skies and sea breezes is a must-have for your summer wardrobe. Looks excellent with breezy linen shirts and lightweight suits for those impromptu business deals by the seashore.
