DIY | THE BEACH HAT PROJECT

Hats, one of the most unassuming fashion pieces, have quite a few functions to propose.

As it is widely used to safeguard the skin and eyes from direct sunshine, it also helps regulate body temperature during unfavorable weather condition. Its usage can furthermore be traced in our history, when it was once regard and still considered to be a representation of authority, educational and social rank.

Observably, it becomes a staple beach accessory in summer. It gives a simple swimsuit a nice lift and suddenly an unadorned shirt at once becomes modish.

I have seen several beach hats shifting from petite to oversize, varying designs from plain to the most vibrant hue. However, most hats that are being sold in the market don’t come cheap.

One time, the sale badge in Nine West got me entered their store and I got to try one of their hats, all for a thousand bucks each. Forever 21 offers a better deal for just about 500 – 700 pesos. While some department stores give it for a treat of fewer than 500 bucks.

But I am not willing to spend that much for my summer fling ornament, so I thought of a cheaper alternative. Tada! Why not make my own beach hat, eh?

Here are the materials for the beach hat project:

native hats

I got a bucket hat for 20 bucks,

a floppy type for 25,

and the wide brim for 30.

These are widely available in Quiapo and Divisoria.

String

waxed cord for 20 bucks from Quiapo.

excess jute string from last christmas's gift wrapping, it was bought in Daiso for about a hundred bucks.

wooden beads

and 

metal jewelry

all for 20-30 bucks each pack in Quiapo

artificial flowers

the tiny rainbow flower costs 2 pesos each from Divisoria

large flowers are pre-owned, each costs around 60 - 150 pesos from Forever 21 and Accessorize

^____________^

Ideas were just overflowing whilst hands were a little less than jumpy to come up with something cool.

Finally, after an hour or two, I came up with these :)

bohemian bucket hat

hawaiian floppy hat

Be creative and play with your imagination!

P.S: when shopping for the materials needed, do haggle (it's okay to be barat)

♥ Enjoy the summer ♥