SOUTHERN STYLE
To the Brim
SUN HATS ARE BACK AND BIGGER THAN EVER .
| BY NICOLE LETTS |
The Suncrest by Eric Javits is a stylish hybrid of the classic high-crowned fedora and a practical visor . $ 275 ( Sea Island Surf Shop )
Sun hats are making quite the fashion comeback . Whether it ’ s due to their association with the regal fascinators worn by the royal family or more of a practical desire to be shrouded in shade , women are turning more and more to hats as a statement piece . Southern milliners , such as Sarah Bray West of Sarah Bray Bermuda and Kristin Light of Sissy Light , have had a hand in bringing hats back to the forefront of fashion .
Bray is a former fashion editor turned hat designer . Her straw hats with swappable ribbons are woven from sea grass and palm leaf and are punctuated with vintage floral ribbons and made-in-USA grosgrain . “ Sun hats have become an everyday outfit essential if you ' re living a coastal lifestyle ,” Bray comments . Her ribbon and sash tie details are designed specifically for seaside style , too . “ They secure your hat from flying away in the wind . As an avid sun hat wearer , this is an important detail ,” Bray explains .
26 SEA ISLAND LIFE | SPRING / SUMMER 2023