Hat Shopping in Round Top: A Gardener’s Perfect Companion

As a gardener, I live in hats. Every morning before I head out to work in the beds or meet with garden clients, I grab a hat. Sun protection isn’t optional in Texas—it’s survival gear. So when I found myself at the Round Top antique show recently, I knew exactly what kind of treasure hunting I needed to do.

Round Top, Texas, is famous for its antiques weeks and charming small-town vibe, but it’s also become a surprising mecca for hat lovers. And let me tell you, I left with more than one new garden companion.

Kemo Sabe: Western Luxury Meets Function

https://www.kemosabe.com

My first stop was Kemo Sabe, where custom cowboy hats are practically works of art. The craftsmanship here is incredible—hand-shaped crowns, leather bands, and that perfect structured brim that actually keeps the sun off your face during a long day of planting. I walked out with a beauty that’s equally at home on a job site or at dinner. These hats mean business, and if you garden in Texas, so do you.

Here Nicole is choosing her perfect western hat from Kemo Sabe.  

Jill tries on a custom butterfly hatband from Kemo Sabe.  

Junk Gypsy: Bohemian Charm

https://gypsyville.com/accessories/caps-hats.html

Next up was Junk Gypsy, and the vibe here couldn’t be more different. Think eclectic, free-spirited, and full of personality. The hats here have that perfectly worn-in, vintage feel—floppy brims, fun embellishments, and a much more relaxed style. I snagged one that’s become my go-to for casual garden days when I’m just puttering around my own beds. It’s got character, just like a well-loved garden.

Sissy Light at Bader Ranch: Hidden Gem

https://sissylight.com

I have purchased several hats from the Sissy Light hat store at Bader Ranch. Owner Kristin Light specializes in stylish straw hats of various styles and colors.  Tucked into Katy Bader's beautiful property - Bader Ranch, the shop offers curated finds with a sophisticated edge. The hats here strike that perfect balance between style and practicality—wide brims for serious sun protection, but elevated enough that you don’t feel like you’re wearing pure utility. I found a stunner here that transitions beautifully from garden work to client meetings.  

Kristin Light, Jill Oliver, and Katy Bader.  Jill is wearing the midsummer straw hat.

Thunderbird Hats: Artisan Excellence

Finally, Visiting Allen Wilkinson of Thunderbird Hats reminded me why I love supporting artisan makers. These aren’t mass-produced—they’re thoughtfully crafted pieces with attention to detail that any gardener can appreciate.  My brother in law Kenneth purchased me a forever felt hat from Allen that I will treasure.  

Jen Taillefumier of Kneaded Fashion, Allen Wilkinson, and Jill Oliver 

The Takeaway

Every gardener needs a good hat—or five. Round Top delivered beyond my expectations, and now my collection is ready for whatever the Texas sun throws at me. Whether you’re installing a garden, deadheading roses, or just enjoying a morning coffee on the patio, the right hat makes all the difference.

If you find yourself in Round Top, do yourself a favor: shop for hats. Your face (and your garden style) will thank you.

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