A few options available online… goals I had in mind in what I was looking for: classic/simple styling, a narrow to medium size brim, made from straw or shantung, and with no visible branding. Unless going the custom order route, it’s surprisingly hard to find a RTW hat which meets that criteria.
A Stetson made for Brooks Brothers with a nicely colored band.
An open weave center dent style fedora sold by Brooks Brothers, made in Italy.
A straw trilby from J.Crew with a narrow brim. These are pretty average on the quality scale and are made in China – however, if you’re on a budget or just need a hat that you don’t want to worry about, these are not a bad buy.
And here’s a true panama hat that they’re also selling. These were marketed towards women, but could be worn be men as well (it was even featured in Monocle a couple of issues back). Having checked one out in store, the only problem I have with it is that the brim does not hold its shape well.
A rather nice one from Borsalino, an Italian maker – it’s only unfortunate that they stamped their logo on the band (not something you’d expect on any hat that costs over $100).
Some more models made or sold by Stetson (their panama hats are made in Ecuador and finished here in the U.S.). You’ll probably notice that they brand their hats as well, but unlike Borsalino, the logos are either just a simple pin or label attached with a light adhesive that are meant to be taken off easily.
