August Hat Trends 2026: Deep Crowns & Big Hair Styles Taking Over

We're deep into August, and the 2026 hat season is delivering some serious heat. The trends that were just whispers back in June are now full-blown movements—and for once, people with big hair are actually getting love.

Gone are the days when "one size fits all" meant crushing your curls or leaving deep marks on your forehead. This year's trends are all about deep crowns, breathable materials, and hats that actually fit your hair volume.

Here's what's trending right now—and why it matters if you have locs, afros, braids, or serious hair thickness.

1. The Deep Crown Revival

This is the big one. Hats with deeper crowns (3.5" and up) are everywhere this August, and for good reason—they accommodate actual hair volume.

Why this matters for big hair:

• Your hair isn't getting smashed flat every time you wear a hat
• No more headache-inducing pressure points
• Your hair can BREATHE instead of being trapped
• You can wear protective styles (braids, twists, buns) comfortably

What to look for:

• Crown depth of 3.5" or more (the deeper, the better)
• XL/XXL sizing with openings 7 7/8" to 8"+
• Unstructured crowns that don't dig into your scalp
• Interior space that floats on your head, not clamps down

BigHeadz trending: Deep crown fitted caps in New Era 59FIFTY style—specifically engineered for XL/XXL head sizes with crown depths that respect your hair.

2. Faux Shearling & Teddy Fabric Caps

The "teddy" texture that dominated winter hats is making a late-summer comeback. Think bucket hats and caps with soft, faux shearling touches—but lightweight enough for August.

Why this matters:

• Adds texture and visual interest without overheating you
• Shearling creates natural depth in the crown (bonus for volume)
• Fall-transitional piece—wear now, style later
• Makes a statement without screaming for attention

Styling tip: Pair these with simple outfits. The texture is the hero.

3. Bucket Hats With Crochet & Woven Textures

Crochet bucket hats are having a moment, and they're perfect for August. The open weave means breathability, and the casual vibe fits summer-to-fall transition perfectly.

Big hair win: When sized right, crochet buckets float on your head. They don't squeeze, they don't flatten, and they look effortless.

What to look for:

• XL/XXL sizing (standard buckets run small)
• Crochet or woven cotton for breathability
• Wide brims (3"+) for sun protection
• Unstructured crowns for comfort

BigHeadz trending: XL cotton bucket hats in neutral tones—charcoal, tan, and soft sage.

4. Camo Caps With High Crowns

Camo isn't just for hunting anymore. Fashion-forward camo caps with elevated crown heights are trending this month, and the high crown is exactly what big hair needs.

Why it works:

• Camo patterns distract from sizing inconsistencies (you notice the print, not the fit)
• High crowns provide actual headroom
• Tough, moisture-wicking polyester blends handle August heat
• Goes with literally everything—streetwear, casual, sporty

BigHeadz trending: High-crown camo fitteds in XL/XXL with moisture-wicking sweatbands.

5. Straw Sun Hats With Natural Texture

Straw hats aren't going anywhere—August sun is still strong, and wide-brim protection matters. What's new: natural, unrefined textures that feel authentic and intentional.

Big hair advantage:

• Straw breathes better than fabric in peak heat
• Wide brims shade your hair AND your face
• Natural straw has some give—less rigid than processed versions
• Tan, cream, and natural hues reflect heat

What to look for:

• 4"+ brim for real sun coverage
• XL sizing (standard sun hats are notoriously small)
• Leather or fabric bands for durability
• Chin straps for windy days

BigHeadz trending: XL natural straw sun hats with leather bands—available in 7 7/8" and 8" sizes.

August-Specific Styling Tips

Transitioning Hair Styles

As August winds down, you're probably thinking about protective styles for fall.

Best hats for locs/braids in August:

• Deep crown fitteds (no compression on fresh braids)
• Wide-brim straw hats (shades your scalp, protects from UV)
• Unstructured cotton caps (gentle on hairlines)

Nighttime Events

August evenings mean festivals, outdoor movies, and sunset hangouts.

After-dark hat picks:

• Faux shearling caps (texture pops in evening light)
• Darker camo fitteds (streetwear vibe)
• Bucket hats in jewel tones (emerald, navy, burgundy)

Weekend Getaways

Packable hats are your friend.

Travel-ready options:

• Unstructured cotton fitteds (fold flat, no creases)
• Roll-up straw fedoras (bounce back when unpacked)
• Soft bucket hats (stuff in your bag, still look good)

The Big Hair Revolution in 2026

Here's what's different this year: brands are finally recognizing that big hair isn't an afterthought.

What's changed:

• XL/XXL is no longer niche—it's a primary category
• Deep crowns are designed intentionally, not as oversized quirks
• Breathable materials are standard, not premium add-ons
• Marketing images show people with actual hair volume

What hasn't changed enough:

• Some retailers still don't understand that "one size" is a lie
• Fast fashion versions cut corners on crown depth
• Limited color options in extended sizes

BigHeadz difference: Every hat we stock is designed or selected with XL/XXL fit in mind. No compromises.

August Hat Checklist

Before you buy:

• Crown depth 3.5"+ (for real volume)
• XL/XXL sizing that fits your head
• Breathable material (straw, cotton, linen)
• Sweat-absorbing band
• Fits your hair WITHOUT compression
• Appropriate brim width for your activities
• Color works with your existing wardrobe

Ready to Upgrade Your Hat Game?

Explore our August trending collection—every style mentioned above is available in XL/XXL sizing with deep crowns designed for big hair.

Still not sure what size you need? Check out our hat sizing guide for measurements and fit tips.

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Big hair deserves big hats. Periodt.