The Comeback of the Checkered Trucker Hat Style | Nostalgic and Trendy Again

The Comeback of the Checkered Trucker Hat Style | Nostalgic and Trendy Again
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The History of the Checkered Hat Style

Checkered patterns first started being used in hat designs as early as the 1960s and 70s. The flat brim baseball cap with its checkered print became associated with American truck drivers, giving rise to the name “trucker hats.”

In the 1990s, grunge bands and skateboarders took a liking to the working-class checkered trucker hats and brought the rugged style into street fashion. The hats provided both sun protection and an outlet for creative expression with their distinctive checkered or plaid fabrics.

The 2000s Decline

However, trucker hat popularity declined in the early 2000s. Some perceived the bold checkered accessory as purely nostalgic. At the same time, more structured baseball caps gained attention in hip hop culture and dominated mainstream cap styles.

It’s taken some time, but the checkered trucker hat is back with some modern updates. What’s old is new again in fashion now that styles from the 1990s and early 2000s are seeing a resurgence, and the checkered trucker hat is no exception.

Why Checkered Trucker Hats are Trending Again

Nostalgic Appeal

There is an underlying nostalgia and retro appeal to checkered trucker hats that connects to fond memories for many. Some may recall these statement caps from their early skater days or grunge music phase. Even those without a direct personal connection get a sense of nostalgia for the easy-going 1990s era the hats evoke.

Creativity and Customization

The grid pattern on checkered trucker hats allows for almost endless customization opportunities. Hat makers can get creative with the patchwork of colors and you can coordinate the hats with other outfit pieces. Incorporating everything from bold primary shades to pastels to neon brights, the options are vast.

You can also easily DIY your own checkered trucker with a basic hat and some fabric glue for a one-of-a-kind creation.

Bold Accessory Statement Piece

A checkered trucker hat serves as an eye-catching accessory that makes a bold statement. The hats draw attention and allow you to accentuate your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic black and white checker print or multi-colored patchwork patterns, your unique hat immediately becomes a conversational piece.

Ways to Style Checkered Trucker Hats

Casual Looks

For more casual outfit inspiration, you can’t go wrong matching a checkered hat with basics like graphic t-shirts, jeans, sneakers or even a hoodie for a skater vibe. Keep accessories simple and let your hat stand out as the focal point.

Coordinating Prints

If you’re feeling creative, pair your checkered hat with complimentary prints and patterns. For example, mix your black and white hat with a button down buffalo plaid shirt. Or opt for matching colors like a pink hat with pastel stripes or florals. Have fun with mixing and matching prints.

Dressed Up Style

You can also dress up your checkered hat for a more polished look. For ladies, try coupling your hat with feminine dresses or rompers for a sweet contrast. Guys can integrate a crisp checkered hat with button downs, sweaters and fitted pants or chinos.

Where to Shop for Checkered Trucker Hats

Checkered trucker hats are widely available from major fashion retailers for affordable prices. You can often score standard black and white checker hats for under $20 from hat specialty stores or big box stores like Target.

For more unique and modern takes, check out hat brands like Brixton, Obey and Veteran & Co. Or browse sites like Etsy for an array of handmade, custom checkered hat finds.

DIY Your Own

Crafty types can also easily make DIY checkered hats at home with basic hats sourced from craft stores plus fabric glue and checkered print fabric cut into geometric shapes. Watch online videos to learn tricks and get inspired by DIY checkered hat ideas.

However you choose to sport the style, the checkered trucker hat is back and offers endless possibilities to showcase your personality. Let the checkered style give your wardrobe a creative boost.

FAQs

When did checkered trucker hats first become popular?

Checkered trucker hats first rose to prominence in the 1990s among grunge music fans and skateboarders. The style gave the working-class hats an infusion of creativity and street flair.

What makes checkered hats different from regular baseball caps?

Checkered trucker hats have a flat brim and a snapback or adjustable plastic fastener for fit. The checkered pattern also gives them a bolder, artistic look compared to traditional baseball caps.

Why are checkered hats seeing a resurgence now?

After falling out of style in the early 2000s, checkered trucker hats are popular again thanks to a wave of 1990’s retro fashion nostalgia. The customizable checkered pattern also allows for creative self-expression.

What are some good ways to style a checkered hat?

Checkered trucker hats look great dressed up or down. Pair them with t-shirts and jeans for a casual look or complement them with florals and prints. You can also dress them up slightly with rompers or chinos.

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