[IN STOCK] BUCKET HAT

Nepenthes is built on different thinking. Our philosophy is that there’s simply no room to do things the same as others. This means that, although the brand handles familiar products, our execution is never like the rest.

The bucket hat is an essentially uncomplicated item. First used around the turn of the century by Irish farmers, its design is utilitarian, with only a crown for the head, and a wide brim to keep out the rain. The lack of structure also means that it can be folded and placed into a pocket for storage. 

When Engineered Garments designer Daiki Suzuki set out to create his own, he looked over the versions produced by militaries and outdoor companies. He found himself drawn to the vintage bucket hats made by Abercrombie & Fitch during the 1970s and early 80s, which had a large crown and distinctive zigzag stitching on the brim. 

Searching for a way to make his own mark on this straightforward design, Daiki recalled the B-grade versions of the bucket hats that he would sometimes find in outlet stores or factory sales, where uneven stitching would make an irregular shape. Although these products were labelled as defective, he began to wonder what the result would be if he tried to recreate this effect purposely. 

The Engineered Garments Bucket Hat is a veteran of the collection, manufactured since 2005. It keeps the signature diagonal stitches, which provide added durability and an original look. But the hat’s genius comes from some thoughtful tinkering by Daiki. Both the crown and brim are irregular, with one side longer than the other. Nearly undetectable, this twist gives the hat a certain je ne sais quoi, a quality that is almost felt unconsciously. 

The Bucket Hat is easy to style, and retains its core usefulness, with just enough individuality to make it stand apart.