Hollywood has dictated that sun tans are in and sun hats are out. Many women try their hand at year around tanning via the use of natural sunlight or makeshift tanning beds. Having a year around glow may look nice, but the effects are damaging to your skin. If your skin is fair or you prefer to shield your face and neck from the sun, wear a sun hat. Despite what you think, women can still look chic in a sun hat. Yes, there are many sun hat designs that will not make it into your favorite fashion magazine. Yes, there are many stigmas associated with sun hats: matronly, old fashioned, and out of style. However, sun hats are a great option for extended periods in the sun. Hiking, fishing, running, gardening, and other fun outdoor activities call for a sun hat. Crushable hats make great sun hats. Crushable hats are able to be bent and folded and the hat doesn't lose its shape. If you travel frequently, a crushable hat can be placed in your luggage without any problem. Bucket hats can be worn by men and women. Bucket hats have floppy brims and are sometimes referred to as fishing hats. While many men wear bucket hats, some bucket hats have feminine flair such as print, ribbon, and two tone colors. Straw hats are made out of straw, and most cannot be bent. Plenty of wear and tear can cause the straw to bend and break, and you are left with a hat that will cause plenty of discomfort. There are many straw hats that have nice, round and wide brims. Straw hats also have a spring and summer vibe, and can be worn with spring and summer apparel during these seasons. Sun visors offer a jutted out, or pointed brim, with a strap that fastens in the back. Athletic brands such as Puma, Adidas, and Nike offer athletic visors that are sturdy. One drawback with the sun visors is that most lack protection for the top of the head and the nape of the neck. If you are merely looking for a hat to shield your face, a visor is a good option. Sun Hat Tips As soon as you step outside your hat should already be in place. Avoid thinking that the sun won't harm you if it's early in the morning. Put your hat on inside your home. If you wear makeup make sure it has SPF. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses for added protection. Know the weather. Avoid flappy and loose hats on windy days. Use a hatbox to protect your hat. Hatbox ensures that you will be able to use your hat for several years. If you're tall, consider wearing a wide brim sun hat. If you have a petite frame, opt for a sun hat that has a smaller brim and a small crown. If you have a full figure floppy and arched brims work best for your frame. Scala sun hats Black sun hats Travelsmith sun hats