The sun has finally decided to put his hat on, so it’s time for us to start thinking about doing the same. And what better way than an old classic?

The straw hat is nothing new for the summer. After sunglasses and sun cream, it’s one of the first things that signals warmer weather. They’ve been used as a functional item for many hundreds of years, and as a fashion statement for a just a few hundred less; ribbon-adorned floppy straw hats, boaters, Panama hats and floral-strewn hats with an upturned brim have been the stylish woman’s staple from May-September (if you’re being kind to the British summer) for years.

This season, straw hats have been given a 2019 makeover: think a relaxed structure, with big brims and soft shapes, as seen on the catwalks at Valentino, Chanel, Jacquemus, Etro, Michael Kors and Tory Burch.

While Jacquemus’ enormous wide-brimmed hat was the stand out accessory of last summer, this year the big brims are a little more manageable (no need to be concerned that you might lose your hat at the slightest hint of wind). And the relaxed shape of this seasons hats is perfect for shielding the sun’s rays from your face and channelling a looser, freer style for chilled out summer days.

Here is our pick of the best straw hats to wear this summer.

Opening images courtesy of Getty. All other images courtesy of the brands.