November 25, 2009

The History Of Hats In America

Baseball hats are one of the most common types today, but there are many more varieties from which to choose. Many of the womens apparel of the past are coming back in vogue; the cloche, the brimmed hat or even a beret. For men, derby hats, Stetson hats and fedoras have been picking up some favor. Hats may never be indicators of social class and distinction as they used to be in the twenties, but Americans will always have room for head coverings. After all, a great hat speaks for itself, conveying much about a person, which is an undeniably attractive idea.

A Panama hat was a popular accessory for a linen or silk suit. The hat style is associated with tropical regions because they are lightly colored, lightweight and breathable. Past notable Panama hat wearers include US Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Harry Truman, as well as TV/movie personalities like the First Doctor on the British Sci-fi show “Doctor Who,” actor Paul Henreid (“Lazlo”) from Casablanca, “Clark Gable” in Gone With The Wind and Charlie Chan, who appeared in thirties and forties detective movies. Today, hat companies like Stetson, Dobbs and Cavanaugh sell more Panama hats than fedoras or bowlers, indicating the enduring nature of this style. At www.brentblack.com, there are a number of different styles for men and women.

Women also have many different hat styles available to them. At first, women wore headgear to blend in with men, hiding their true identity so they could have equal opportunities with males. However, once discovered, hats were seen as a very beautiful addition to a strong woman. Editor of Harpers Bazaar, Jeannine Larmouth, pointed out: “A hat is a shameless flatterer, calling attention to an escaping curl, a tawny braid, a sprinkling of freckles over a pert nose, directing the eye to what is most unique about a face. Its curves emphasize a shining pair of eyes, a lofty forehead; its deep brim accentuates the pale tint of a cheek, creates an aura of prettiness, suggests a mystery that awakens curiosity in the onlooker.” Womens apparel fashion can be found at www.hatagories.com, which offers berets, cloches, derby hats, large brims, beanies, fedoras, wedding accessories and church apparel. Another worthwhile site, www.louisegreen.com, also offers fine hat selections for women.

The top hat was all the rage at the turn of the 18th century, as evidenced in the 1796 Charles Vernet painting, “Un Incroyable.” The first popular hats of this style were made using beaver or rabbit fur. Black oilcloth and silk would sometimes cover the outside to keep the elements off the hat. Everyone from postal workers, to gentlemen, to opera-goers, to US President Abraham Lincoln wore them. However, by the end of World War II, top hats had become associated with magicians, the Monopoly board game, Uncle Sam and satires of the wealthy elite, thus diminishing its popularity. Presently, top hats are still worn by member of the gothic subculture, musicians (like Slash from Guns N Roses and Stevie Nicks) and men in wedding parties.

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