I compose a weekly fashion newsletter—here are the summer hats stylish women are sporting.

      Cathy Karuga is the creator of Three Outfits, a rapidly expanding fashion newsletter that delves into personal style, culture, and the changing definitions of taste. With her insider knowledge of emerging designers, It brands, and evolving fashion trends, along with an outsider's viewpoint on the industry, Karuga has crafted a unique voice that fuses fashion commentary with cultural critique. It's widely accepted that summer can be the toughest season for dressing well. As temperatures rise, maintaining a chic appearance becomes increasingly difficult. With limited options for layering, many outfits begin to feel repetitive. This is why the most fashionable women are not solely depending on their clothing this summer; they're allowing their accessories to take center stage. A hat is the one accessory that can instantly enhance an outfit's sophistication while also shielding your skin from sun exposure. Often overlooked, a hat can either elevate or tone down an outfit in an instant. You can easily make a dressier ensemble more casual with a relaxed cap or a canvas bucket hat, or dress up a simpler look with a pillbox hat or a structured raffia hat. It completes your outfit, prevents squinting in the sunlight, and protects your skin all at once. It's hard to find another accessory that offers such multifaceted utility. After trying various styles and browsing the feeds of the most fashionable influencers on Substack, here are my selections for the best summer hats currently favored by It girls this season.

      1. The Canvas Bucket Hat

      If I were to designate one hat as the standout piece of the season, it would be the TWP Nantucket Sound Hat. This is the hat that's appearing everywhere in the fashion circles of Substack. There's a reason it's frequently sold out or available only for preorder. The addition of the red chin strap adds a delightful touch, giving this otherwise casual bucket hat a bit of personality, transforming it from sporty outdoor wear to effortlessly stylish.

      If you're unable to get one or prefer something more budget-friendly, I found this canvas bucket hat from Lack of Color in two colors—it's that impressive.

      If you're hesitant about color, a hat is also a fantastic way to experiment. It can add an appealing element to a neutral look without being overpowering and can soften a tailored or corporate outfit.

      Another favorite is the reversible style from Hat Attack, which allows you to wear either the black or white side out, depending on your outfit.

      2. The Structured Bucket Hat

      A structured bucket hat has a way of making even a simple tee and relaxed trousers appear well put together. It gives the outfit a finished and polished look.

      This raffia bucket hat from Zimmermann adds structure, texture, and a touch of romance.

      I myself am wearing the Inca Bucket Hat from Lack of Color. The combination of its sculptural shape and natural raffia creates a beautiful balance. The structured design adds a sophisticated air, while the woven texture prevents it from looking overly formal.

      This hat also offers practical advantages. Unlike softer hats that tend to lose their shape after being packed in a suitcase, a structured hat retains its form beautifully. If you've ever struggled to reshape a floppy hat during a vacation, you'll understand the benefit!

      This pleated Capri hat from Australian brand Lorna Murray captivated many in Australia last summer.

      3. The Floppy Bucket Hat

      If the structured bucket hat is suited for urban settings, the floppy bucket hat is perfect for vacations. By nature, it's more relaxed. You can toss it into your beach bag or compress it in your suitcase without worrying about keeping it in perfect condition. It’s my go-to when I know my wardrobe will consist mainly of linen, swimwear, and little else.

      My By Malene Birger hat has accompanied me on every summer getaway for several years now. I love the contrast of the two tones, which adds a bit more character than a typical raffia hat. I can wear it floppy for a "mysterious woman on holiday" vibe or flip the front back for better visibility while keeping an eye on my kids at the beach. Mine is from last season, but By Malene Birger has introduced two new two-tone options this summer, and the black one with the natural brim is currently in my cart.

      This Annie Crochet Bucket Hat from Barbour is quite similar.

      Another excellent two-tone floppy option is the Contrast-Trim Raffia Hat from COS.

      4. The "Just for Fun" Hat

      Admittedly, these hats won't provide much sun protection; they’re more like the exclamation point for your outfit. They add joy and flair. With valuable space atop your head, why not use it? Hats are one of the simplest ways to incorporate color, texture, playfulness, or a hint of romance into your look.

      They are also my go-to solution for day-three hair. My fine hair tends to get oily quickly, so with a little dry shampoo and one of these hats, I can look presentable.

      This Zara sailor hat exemplifies that idea. While it strikes