The Ultimate Guide to Rocking Shaggy Hats in 2023 | Hat Trends

The Comeback of the Shaggy Hat

Shaggy hats, characterized by their fuzzy, textured exterior, have made a major comeback in recent years. You may have seen these hats all over social media, being rocked by influencers and style icons. So why has this accessory suddenly surged in popularity, and how can you style a shaggy hat for yourself?

The History of Shaggy Hats

Versions of fuzzy, textured hats have been around for decades. Some fashion historians point to the hippie culture of the 1960s and 1970s as the beginning of shaggy hats. During this era, textures and natural fabrics were popular within counter-culture fashion. Shaggy hats aligned well with the free-spirited, Bohemian style of the time.

In the 1990s, bucket hats with a furry texture became trendy within hip hop, skater, and rave scenes. Brands like Kangol popularized tall, fuzzy bucket hats that added texture and flair to streetwear looks. So while shaggy hats have been bubbling up in counter-culture spaces for years, social media has now thrust them into the mainstream.

Why Shaggy Hats are Suddenly Everywhere

Over the past couple years, Y2K and 90s throwback fashion has infiltrated youth culture and social media. On TikTok and Instagram, you may have noticed Gen Zers and young Millennials embracing trends from these decades, with a modern twist. Crochet tops, baguette bags, and colorful eye makeup are just a few Y2K-inspired trends that have reemerged.

And shaggy hats fit right into this nostalgic wave. Their texture and casual vibe are reminiscent of 90s and Y2K bucket hats. So influencers and designers have begun reworking shaggy hats to align with contemporary aesthetics. The hashtag #shaggyhat has over 300 million views on TikTok, showing the viral popularity of this accessory.

How to Style a Shaggy Hat

Shaggy hats may remind you of a specific era, but they can work in plenty of modern contexts. Here are a few tips for stylishly integrating a shaggy hat into your wardrobe:

• Pair with neutrals - Shaggy hats themselves make a statement, so balance the look with neutral staples like jeans, white sneakers, and a gray hoodie.
• Clash textures - Leather jackets, woven handbags, and velour tracksuits bring interesting textures that contrast beautifully with a shaggy hat.
• Experiment with layers - Layer a shaggy hat over a beanie for extra warmth and style points.
• Incorporate Y2K touches - Tiny sunglasses, chain necklaces, and platform shoes complement shaggy hats for a modern, nostalgic vibe.

Shaggy Bucket Hats & More

While shaggy hats come in all shapes and sizes, the current comeback centers around shaggy bucket hats. The bucket shape frames the face nicely while letting the fuzzy texture take center stage. Shaggy fisherman beanies and pom pom hats have also surged during this trend.

On social media, you may see people rocking shaggy bucket hats from brands like Tyler Lambert. This label offers trendy colors and fabrics like cotton candy fur. Inspector Wear also provides shaggy bucket hats and beanies with an underground hip hop edge. Or you can always thrift vintage shaggy hats for a unique, one-of-a-kind find.

How to Care for a Shaggy Hat

If you invest in a trendy shaggy hat, you’ll want it to last more than one season. Follow these care instructions so your fuzzy accessory stays fresh:

Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight

The fibers and dyes used to create that fuzzy texture can break down from heat exposure. When possible, avoid wearing your shaggy hat in intense sunlight or leaving it in a hot car. And absolutely do not attempt to wash dry your shaggy hat!

Hand Wash or Spot Clean

Only hand wash shaggy hats when dirty, using cold water and a gentle cleaner. Make sure to rinse thoroughly, gently squeeze out excess moisture, and lay flat until fully dry. For light dirt, spot clean problem areas with a small amount of cleaner instead.

Use a Hat Brush

Investing in a hat brush can help keep shaggy hats looking fluffy and textured. Gently brush the fibers upward to revive flattened spots. Check the tag or product details before brushing though, as this can damage certain materials.

Store Properly

Unless you plan on wearing your shaggy hat every single day, proper storage will keep it looking its best. Fill the inside with tissue paper to help the hat maintain its shape. Store in a breathable box or on a hat rack away from direct sunlight.

Express Yourself with a Shaggy Hat!

Through TikTok virality and 90s/Y2K resurgence, shaggy hats have earned their time to shine once again. Displaying colors and textures you won’t find anywhere else, they’re a playful way to elevate your accessories game. Show off your personal style by incorporating a shaggy hat into your next #OOTD!

FAQs

What decade did shaggy hats first become popular?

Versions of shaggy hats emerged in the 1960s and 1970s within hippie and Bohemian counter-culture fashion. Fuzzy bucket hats also rose in popularity in the 1990s among hip hop, rave, and skater scenes.

What modern trends have brought shaggy hats back?

Gen Z and Millennial obsession with 1990s and early 2000s (Y2K) fashion has fueled shaggy hats' recent revival. The nostalgic, vintage vibe of shaggy hats fits right in with this throwback trend permeating youth culture.

What is the most popular type of shaggy hat right now?

While all kinds of fuzzy hats have made a comeback, shaggy bucket hats stand out as the most ubiquitous. Their recognizable shape and endless color options make them a social media favorite.

Should you hand wash or machine wash a shaggy hat?

Always hand wash shaggy hats in cold water to avoid damage to fibers and dyes. Machine washing can destroy the fuzzy texture that defines these hats, so take a gentle approach.