Hats are a timeless accessory that can instantly elevate any outfit. Hat trends are taking over this season, and three styles are leading the way.
From the classic fedora to the trendy dad hat, these hats have the power to make a bold statement and complete any style.
In this article, we’ll explore three of the leading hat-wearing trends businesses should know about. Capture these trends and stay relevant in today’s market by reading below.
Table of Contents
Overview of the global hat market
3 popular hat trends
Staying on top of hat trends
Overview of the global hat market
The demand for hats has seen a significant uptick in recent years, driven by both an increase in hat-wearing trends worldwide and changes in the global climate.
According to market projections, the global market size for hats is expected to grow steadily at 6.53% in the next five years.
The convenience and ease of purchasing hats through online channels has also contributed to this growth, as has the influence of trendsetters on social media platforms like Instagram.
In 2021, Europe and Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest share of revenue in the hat market, with Asia-Pacific also experiencing the fastest growth. Brands are also responding to this demand by offering a wider variety of designs and products that cater to consumers’ specific wants and needs.
3 popular hat trends
Hats are an all-time popular fashion statement. And among the trendiest cap styles in today’s market include dad hats, sports caps, and personalized headwear. Below we’ll tap into each style in further detail.
1. Dad hats
Dad hats became trendy headwear in the 1970s thanks to the baseball players who donned them in their games. They are called “dad hats” because most people who wore them at the time were middle-aged men with children.
They became mainstream in the 90s with the many famous rappers sporting them. While they quietly lost momentum when the 2000s entered, popular personalities like President Obama, Kanye West, and Nick Jonas made dad hats a trend again in 2016.
These caps have also become famous among people of all ages and genders as stylish and comfortable accessories.
This is due to the breathable material that suits almost any weather and the casual laid-back look.
Dad hat styles to consider
A style that’s really popular in almost any fashion trend is retro. Consider distressed dad hats with a worn-in, vintage look achieved through intentional fraying, holes, and discoloration. They’re well-liked by those looking for an edgy, streetwear-inspired look.
Embroidered dad hats with designs or logos on the front of the hat are also sought-after among sports teams, brands, and businesses. Patterned caps with stripes, polka dots, and camo are also worth considering as the style adds a pop of color or interest to an outfit.
While they may come off a bit too classic, solid-color dad hats are another category to consider. Offer them in plain colors like black, navy blue, gray, and white. They are favored for everyday wear, as they match any outfit and can be worn casually or formally.
2. Sports caps
Sports hats have become a popular trend among fitness enthusiasts and athletes alike. They are worn to protect the eyes from the sun, provide shade, and keep sweat off the face.
These hats are specially designed with breathable fabrics and moisture-wicking technology to keep the head cool and dry during intense physical activity.
They also come in various styles, such as baseball caps, visors, and trucker hats, making them versatile accessories for any workout.
Additionally, many sports hats feature reflective detailing, providing an added layer of visibility for runners and athletes training in low-light conditions.
Overall, sports hats have become a must-have accessory for anyone looking to enhance their fitness routine and stay protected from the elements.
Sports caps to add to your range
Offer suede baseball hats to customers looking to add a hint of luxury to their outfits. You can also consider trucker caps—those hats with a mesh back and a curved brim—as they are popular among people who want to stay cool and comfortable in hot weather.
Lightweight running caps and sun visors are great additions to your range too. Ensure they’re made of breathable materials. Consider performance caps as well for consumers looking for moisture-absorbing hats.
While a bit uncommon, bucket hats make for an effective sports cap for running. Their wide brims provide more sun protection than a traditional baseball cap, which suits people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
3. Custom hats
Custom caps can be personalized through embroidery, screen printing, and other forms of customization. They’re a favorite among people looking for promotional items, gifts, and personal use.
With self-expression as an increasingly popular theme, the freedom to personalize caps is a great driving factor for purchasing intent. They’re also effective in increasing brand exposure when worn as a part of its employees’ uniforms.
Custom hats come in all styles, including baseball caps, personalized dad hats, trucker hats, beanies, visors, and flex-fit caps. Offering them alongside multiple personalization techniques like printing and embroidery is the way to go.
Staying on top of hat trends
Staying current with the latest hat trends can be a beneficial strategy for any business in the fashion industry.
By positioning your brand as on-trend and fashionable, you can stay ahead of the competition and appeal to the fashion-conscious consumer. Keeping an eye on emerging hat trends can help ensure your business remains relevant and thriving in today’s fashion space.
