The Hat That Won the West

It wasn’t the wide brimmed cowboy hat, according to this 1957 article, but the hard rounded derby. From its emergence in mid-1800’s Britain until the rise in popularity of soft hats in the early 20th century, the bowler or derby (as it is known in the U.S.) was worn by everyone. Worn well,

and not so well.

by men at play,

and women at play,

…even anarchists agreed to agree on the bowler.

A poorly fitting bowler is torturous to wear, but conformed to the head, it’s a dream. This beautiful 1920s featherweight Premier Quality from Stetson is a favorite and among the most comfortable hats in my collection. 

If you are intrigued and want to learn more about the derby hat, pay a visit to the Hatted Professor, Brad Bowers.