Celebrity-Inspired REI Sun Hats
- Writer-Loved: Goldcoast Ashley Hat, $30 (orig. $40)
- Looks Just Like Kate Hudson’s: Sunday Afternoons Havana Hat, $44
- Similar Shape to Lily Collins’: Peter Grimm Susan Hat, $25 (orig. $35)
- Canvas Like Jennifer Aniston’s: REI Co-op Sahara Guide Hat, $47
There are very few things that stand between me and a summer day at the beach or pool. But the recent weather on the East Coast, with temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, threatened to keep me inside. That is, until I borrowed a solution from celebrities.
I’ve been admiring the sun hats that Kate Hudson, Jennifer Aniston, and Lily Collins have worn recently because they’re not only fashionable but also practical for avoiding sunburn and staying cool in sweltering weather. Inspired by their styles, I tried the Goldcoast Ashley Hat from REI. It’s officially earned its spot in my beach bag this season — and you can grab it for 25 percent off right now.
Goldcoast Ashley Hat
Credit: REI
$40
$30 at REI
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Before trying the hat from REI, I associated sun hats with my 88-year-old grandmother, who never leaves home without one — no matter the season. She’s fashionable in her own right, but we have decidedly different styles, so I never thought about reaching for one myself. However, from the moment I put it on, I understood why it’s been in her rotation for so many years. Not only did it keep me cool as I read by the pool, but it also shaded my face, shoulders, and chest, where I tend to burn easily.
I received the accessory right before the Fourth of July heat wave, and it was a game changer. With it on, I was able to stay outside for longer without overheating, and I adjusted the wired 5-inch brim for more protection as the sun moved throughout the day. Plus, the UPF 50+ fabric blocks at least 98 percent of UV rays, giving me extra peace of mind during hours outside.
Since it’s made of straw, it dries in a few minutes, and after spilling iced coffee on the brim, I was delighted to discover it doesn’t hold stains. While it’s only available in one size, I found it flexible and didn’t pinch my head or cause pain like other structured options I’ve tried.
It couldn’t be easier to style, either. Like Hudson, I wore mine with a bathing suit, but I look forward to wearing it with jeans and a T-shirt, like Aniston, for long days spent walking or running errands. Collins showed me how to dress it up, wearing a black straw hat to the French Open with a black halter dress and jacket. Best of all? It holds its shape even if placed underneath other items in a suitcase, so it’s great to bring for vacation.
Secure yourself some shade this summer with the Goldcoast Ashley Hat. Ahead, shop more celebrity-inspired sun hats from REI.
Sunday Afternoons Havana Hat
Credit: REI
$44 at REI
Peter Grimm Susan Hat
Credit: REI
$35
$25 at REI
REI Co-op Sahara Guide Hat
Credit: REI
$47 at REI
