Just When you Thought Hats Were Out!

Old is New Again!!

Unfortunately, these days we pretty much live in a virtually hatless society. It wasn't always so.  Hats were the  staple of the well-dressed woman's wardrobe in the 20's, 30's, 40's and 50's and into the 60's.  They have always represented an art form. Currently more and more hats are being listed on eBay and that is opening up a celebration for many hat collectors and vintage clothing collectors.  I am thankful for collectors, because they keep the hobby interesting and exciting.  Today hats are worn and enjoyed by many.  In fact hats are a joy to own and display for people worldwide.  When a woman wears a hat, there's little more mystery - it's sexy without being obvious.

As a collector myself, the hat lifts the spirit and brightens your looks.  A hat softens your profile, broadens your brow, balances a weak chin, helps a poor feature and plays up a good one.  Hats do not need persuasive arguments to buy; they eloquently speak for themselves. For a hat is a cosmetic, a beautifier, giving uplift to tired face lines.  Some woman feel like they'll stand out in a hat, but honestly, it makes anything you're wearing look new, whether it be crystal clips, feather headbands or a brilliant hat - it updates the look and is so dramatic.

What Influenced Ladies to Wear Hats?

We all know the major influence on fashion and hats in the early years was Hollywood. One of the most influential Parisian couturiers of the middle and late 1930's was Schiaparelli.  Elsa Schiaparelli once said, "What Hollywood designs today, you will see wearing tomorrow".  The films during that period had an enormous influence on fashion.  In the early years, clothes were lovely and feminine, many designed by the famous Hollywood expert Adrian.  All those glamorous creations, from playsuits, day clothes to evening wear showed a luxurious appealing air.  The hats were so important and coordinated to match the outfits.  

Of course, gone are the days when it was considered extravagant, vain and conceited for ladies to make the most of herself with cosmetics, an attractive figure and beautiful clothing and hats.  Looking back at the remarkable noir films and those beautiful designed fashions from the square shoulders to the more feminine looks that were re-introduced by Christan Dior in the 40's. We can be thankful for the history and the changes that benefited woman everywhere.

     Earlier Years       Currently

Who Wears Hats Today?

The hat collectors keep the hobby alive and well.  But that's not all.  Hats are worn currently every year to the Kentucky Derby.  Where you see the most celebrated and largest display of hats in this country. The large and impressive hats are worn for the horse races and each year the hat wearers increase.

Of course, England traditionally has always felt hats are a huge importance in society. They are worn to social occasions, weddings, christenings and funerals.  You will see a parade of guests and their hat choices for most formal and festive occasions in Europe.   In fact, Queen Elizabeth of England has her own large collection of beautiful hats, all color-coordinated to match her dress and coat ensembles.    Hats are a big item at the Ascot horse races and most social events where the Queen is in attendance.

You will still see hats in churches all over America on Easter.  Ladies participate in the wearing of Easter bonnets on this special day.  African American woman wear beautiful large hats to church on Sundays and to other society functions as a regular fashion statement.  In fact some of the most beautiful hats are in their prized collections.

We can't forget other displays of hats or caps that are currently worn by baseball players, football player, skiers, cowboys and cowgirls.  And today you will see vintage hats worn to afternoon teas which have become very popular. And there is a "Red Hat Society" ladies group that enjoy getting together for luncheons and teas displaying their red hats in all sizes and styles. 

Hats are again becoming an important fashion accessory. At least, come fall if the designer' collections shown at this year's Fashion Week are any indication, you will see hats. The runways saw lots of hats in all shapes and sizes, floppy, big, small and feathered.  Some of the names that indorse hats are: Max Azria, Vera Wang, G-Star Raw, Michael Kors, and Bill Blass.  One hat that stole the show was the Badgley Mischka big brimmed hat that looked like it was taken out of Faye Dunaway's 1970's wardrobe closet.   Hats are the ultimate luxury to accessorize your outfit. They are like a piece of art.