Austin, Texas, boasts a vibrant and eclectic culture, reflected in its diverse fashion scene. Finding the perfect hat to complete your look can be an adventure, and luckily, Austin offers a plethora of options. This guide explores 19 of the best hat stores in Austin, catering to every style and budget. Whether you're after a classic cowboy hat, a stylish fedora, or a quirky beanie, you're sure to find your perfect lid among these diverse retailers.
Where to Find the Best Hats in Austin: A Diverse Selection
Austin's hat scene is as diverse as its population. From high-end boutiques to vintage shops and online retailers, there's a perfect place to find your next favorite hat. This list includes a mix of styles, price points, and shopping experiences.
High-End Boutiques Offering Exquisite Headwear
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Allen Edmonds: While known for shoes, their hat selection often features high-quality, classic styles. Expect fedoras, newsboy caps, and other sophisticated options at a premium price point. Their customer service is exceptional, and you'll receive personalized fitting advice.
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South Congress Hats: Located on the iconic South Congress Avenue, this store offers a wide selection of cowboy hats, and is known for the high quality and variety in its selection. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Independent Stores with Unique Finds
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The Austin Hat Company: This store focuses on handcrafted hats, with an emphasis on unique designs and materials. You'll find everything from bespoke cowboy hats to stylish fedoras. Expect a higher price point, reflecting the craftsmanship and quality.
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Uncommon Objects: While not exclusively a hat store, Uncommon Objects often features a curated selection of vintage and unique hats, making it a great place to discover one-of-a-kind pieces.
Vintage & Thrift Stores for Hat Hunters
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Buffalo Exchange: A popular Austin thrift store with a surprisingly good selection of hats. You can find everything from vintage fedoras to retro baseball caps at affordable prices. Expect to do some digging, but the rewards are well worth it.
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Goodwill: Multiple locations across Austin. Goodwill is always a treasure trove of unexpected finds, including hats. It's a gamble, but you might uncover a vintage gem for a steal.
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The Retro Den: This store specializes in vintage clothing and accessories, so you're likely to find a great selection of hats from different eras.
Department Stores and Chains with Hat Sections
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Nordstrom: Offers a selection of hats from various brands, ranging from casual to dressy styles. You can find everything from beanies to fedoras.
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Dillards: Similar to Nordstrom, Dillards usually carries a decent selection of hats, often including popular brands.
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H&M: A great place to find trendy, affordable hats, especially beanies, baseball caps, and other casual styles.
Online Retailers for Convenience
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Zappos: A vast online selection of hats from many brands, offering convenience and a wide range of styles.
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Amazon: Another comprehensive online resource with thousands of hats available. Remember to check reviews before buying.
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Etsy: For truly unique and handcrafted hats, Etsy is a great resource. You'll find many independent sellers offering custom designs and vintage finds.
Specialty Stores with Niche Selections
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Hats Plus: They specialize in hats and caps in a variety of materials and styles.
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Lids: A chain sporting goods store that provides many types of caps and hats at a variety of price points.
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Boot Barn: A reliable source for cowboy hats and related western wear.
Unexpected Places to Find Hats
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Local Markets: Check out local farmers' markets and craft fairs. You might find unique handmade hats from local artisans.
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Antique Stores: Antique stores can be a goldmine for vintage hats, although you'll have to hunt for them.
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Consignment Shops: Similar to thrift stores, consignment shops sometimes carry hats, often higher-quality items than you might find at a thrift store.
Finding the Perfect Hat: Style, Fit, and Material
Buying a hat isn’t just about finding a style you like; it’s about finding the right fit and material for your needs. Consider the following:
- Your face shape: Certain hat styles complement different face shapes better. A wide-brimmed hat might suit a round face, while a fedora might flatter a more angular face.
- Your lifestyle: If you're active, a durable and sweat-wicking material is key. For formal occasions, choose a higher-quality, more refined hat.
- The season: Choose a lightweight material for summer and a warmer material for winter.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Hat Enthusiast in Austin
Austin's diverse hat scene caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're a seasoned hat collector or a first-time buyer, there's a perfect hat waiting for you in the city limits. Remember to consider your personal style, the occasion, and the material before making your purchase. Happy hat hunting!
