Yes, You Need a Cold-Weather Bucket Hat

For anyone who has watched Netflix’s Emily in Paris, it’s inevitable that you came out of your binge-watching rabbit hole with two thoughts in mind. First of all, what the heck was Emily Cooper (played by Lily Collins) wearing on her head for the majority of the show. (FYI, it was a series of somewhat questionable hats, earning her the nickname Bucket Hat). And secondly, should I get one? The answer to the latter is 100% yes. Actually, to be more specific, you should get a cute winter hat.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still very much a thing (despite what some celebrities who are continuing to throw huge parties may tell you), and winter fast approaching, the reality for many Canadians is that we’re going to be spending *a lot* of time inside—or outside in frigid temperatures. Whether it’s to get in a daily walk, escape to cottage country for a staycation of sorts (lucky ducks!) or to sit on a heated patio with friends to socially distance *and* still be social, we’ll be in the great outdoors whether we like it or not. Meaning, we’ll need to not only be super warm (again, those frigid temps), but also super cute. Because there’s only so much creative expression your Michelin Man puffer coat allows you.

Luckily for you, just in time for winter, we’ve rounded up some of the best chapeaux of the season. They’re chic, functional as heck and ring in at a variety of different price points. Plus, several of these cute winter hats are from homegrown Canadian brands because it’s more important than ever to support local.

You may not want people to call you Bucket Hat like Emily in Paris’s heroine, but we guarantee that this winter you’ll definitely want to rock one.

Cute Winter Hats

1/13 Heirloom

Steppe in Persimmon, $280, heirloomhats.com

This Montreal-based brand creates hats that double as works of art. And this four-tiered, 100% rabbit fur creation is no exception. It’s guaranteed to spice up any patio drink (and any winter outfit!). We’re also a fan of their chic as heck berets.

2/13 Acne Studios

Pansy Face Patch Rib Wool Beanie in Bubblegum Pink, $200, nordstrom.ca

A twist on the classic wool beanie, we love a bright pop of colour to break up the dreariness of winter. Plus, that thick cuff is perfection.

3/13 Parkhurst

Classic Beret in Baby Blue, $25, simons.ca

Channel your inner Parisian with this made in Canada beret. French girl je ne sais quoi not included

4/13 Nobis

Ellis Reversible Winter Bucket Hat, $95, nobis.com

Yes, bucket hats *can* be worn throughout the winter, and this chic wet weather-ready option from Nobis is proof. Plus, it’s reversible, meaning even more styling options! Let it tide you over until the November drop of the brand’s collab with Raptor Serge Ibaka.

5/13 H&M

Felted Wool Hat, $34.99, hm.com

If a typical winter beanie isn’t really your thing, why not try a chic wide-brimmed felt hat? It’s still warm, with the added benefit of looking *super* stylish paired with a wool coat.

6/13 Noize

Callie Knit Hat with Pom Pom, $39, noize.com

A tried and true style (that pom pom is iconic, after all) this hat from Canadian and PETA-approved brand Noize is made from recycled water bottles!

7/13 Uniqlo

Heattech Knitted Cap, $19.90, uniqlo.com

This beanie from Uniqlo may look like any old regular tuque, but its Heattech fabric means this chapeau is both moisture-absorbing and insulating.

8/13 Love & Lore

Eco Ribbed Beanie in Golden Brown, $29.50, chapters.indigo.ca

Another eco-friendly brand exclusive to Indigo,  these beanies are perfect for anyone who may be a little finicky when it comes to the perfect fit. According to FLARE’s managing editor Jenn Berry, “It’s got the right height, thickness and no weird pointy top.” A winner all around!

9/13 Nobis

Reed Unisex Quilted Down Fargo, $275, nobis.com

Designed in Canada, this down-filled hat is hunting weekend-chic (minus the actual hunting).

10/13 Lack of Color

The Goldfinger, $149 AUD, lackofcolor.com

An modern, elevated take on a classic cowboy hat, this wool topper is sure to turn heads.

11/13 Ganni

Teddy Fleece Bucket Hat, $95, nordstrom.com

There’s nothing like a good black hat. This fleece-lined bucket from Danish brand Ganni is guaranteed to keep your noggin toasty warm this winter. Plus, it’s reversible!

12/13 Bobo Choses

Sheepskin Beanie Khaki, $63, smallable.com

Featuring sheepskin lining, this tiny hat is big on warmth. Meep!

13/13 Vallier

Unisex Sillery Beanie in Off-White, $37.99, vallier.com

Another made-in-Canada brand, Vallier has perfected the ribbed beanie. Great for patio hangs or a socially distanced ice skating date.