widebrimmed

Wide-brimmed, often hyphenated as wide-brimmed, is a descriptive term used in fashion and apparel to denote hats whose brim extends noticeably beyond the crown. The brim width varies by style, but a wide-brimmed hat typically offers substantial shade for the face, ears, and neck. The term appears in product descriptions and fashion writing to contrast hats with narrower brims or caps.

Common examples include floppy hats, sun hats, and broad-brimmed fedoras or ranch-style hats. Materials range from straw and woven fibers to felt, wool, cotton, and synthetic fabrics. The wide brim influences both function and silhouette, affecting sun protection, wind resistance, and how the hat sits on the head. Styles can be casual or formal and appear in many cultural contexts, from beachwear to ceremonial or stage millinery.

Cultural and historical notes: wide-brimmed hats have appeared across eras and regions, often associated with sun protection in hot climates or with particular fashion epochs. In modern times they are common for outdoor activities, travel, gardening, and fashion shoots, where the brim contributes dramatic line and shading.

Care and maintenance: brim integrity may require reinforcement for stiff brims or shaping; straw hats should be kept dry and stored upright to prevent distortion; felt hats may be brushed and kept away from moisture; proper storage helps maintain the brim's shape.