A hat was any of various head coverings that could be worn for warmth, style or as a signifier of status.
Senators, Neimoidian leaders of the Trade Federation, and Imperial dignitaries all donned hats with a distinctive shape, height, or color. A brimless hat fitted with a peak were referred to as a cap. Military caps often indicated service and rank, and their color and style helped commanders recognize units on the battlefield.
Cad Bane, a Duros bounty hunter, was well known for wearing a wide-brimmed hat throughout his sordid career spanning the Clone Wars, the reign of the Galactic Empire until his death in 9 ABY. Bane once killed another bounty hunter named Bulduga because he wanted the Ithorian's hat.