I don’t understand why we don’t wear hats anymore. Yeah, it’s the cause of hat hair, but think of the infinite benefits wearing a hat would bring. Protection from UV rays, shade from heat, and a summer accessory that would allow you to stand out from everybody else.

San Diego Hat Company Ultrabraid X-large contrast brim hat.

San Diego Hat Company makes the most interesting hats that are structured differently than your average hat. This Ultrabraid X-Large Contrast Brim Hat has a 10-inch brim with an adjustable sizing tie. It’s black with a lovely white trim, elevating it above wide brim hats you can find at any department store. The black and white color makes it a classy and chic accessory for your summer dress or even a polished, modern outfit. Very reminiscent of My Fair Lady without the gaudiness.

A timeless look.

When I went to Hawaii a month or so ago, I lived in my hat.

Here’s what I envisioned: A holiday chic look, lounging by an infinity pool or scouring a local handicraft market, with oversized Alexander Wang sunglasses adding an air of mystery and Chanel Le Vernis in Jade on the toenails.

After looking at the photos, here’s what actually was: Pale, pasty, practically all vision obscured by my blah-colored hat. You couldn’t tell from the photos whether I was 36 or 63.

Lesson learned. Next time, I’m going with a colorful paper braid hat with adjustable brim. The happy tropical hues alone are enough to liven up any holiday chic look.

San Diego Hat Co. paper braid hat with adjustable brim.

That, and some serious self-tanner.