The Fascinating History of Hats: From Symbolic Accessory to Fashion Statement
Hats are no longer just a way to protect oneself from the elements – they’ve evolved over time to become fashionable accessories that can communicate something about the wearer without them having to say a word. But, thought of as just a way to keep the rain off and the sun away, its evolution into a fashion statement did not happen overnight – hats have an interesting and extensive history that goes back thousands of years. From ancient Egypt to modern-day haute couture, hats have held a place first as a symbol of social standing, then as a mainstream fashion phenomenon.
History of Hats
The Use of Hats Through Antiquity
Though the exact origins of the hat have been lost to time, experts believe that humans have been wearing them since as early as 3,300 BC. In ancient Egypt, only the ruling class and upper-classes wore hats, typically in the form of a sun helmet made from papyrus and reeds – much like the iconic Pharaoh crowns.
The ancient Greeks and Romans also had their own take on headwear, having a variety of distinct styles associated with various gods and goddesses. After the fall of Rome, the trend of wearing hats slowly started to reach the lower classes as well. As wool improved in quality, it became a much more versatile fabric to use in crafting headwear and created pieces that could keep people much warmer in the cold.
Hats in the Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, hats experienced a shift – literal and figurative. As more and more areas of Europe became Christianized, the rounded with brim began to signify priests, bishops and other clergy members, becoming a symbol of faith. In addition to being a status symbol, the wearing of hats on a regular basis became a sign of respect. That trend would eventually find its way to the colonies of the New World.
A Quick Stop in the Colonies
When the Mayflower arrived in America in 1620, the Pilgrims brought with them their tradition of wearing the round hats with brims. The tall hats of the 1600s, like a top hat or a tricorne hat, were considered to be status symbols and these pieces of headwear were passed down through generations as in important heirlooms. The Pilgrims also brought along the fashions of Old World Europe, which were particularly influential on how colonists in the New World dressed.
A Move to New Accessories: Hats in the Age of Enlightenment
At the start of the Enlightenment period in the late 1700s, hats underwent yet another transformation. The stiff, silver buckled-hat of the 1600s gave way to the more relaxed and colorful headwear of the 1700s. This was due, in part, to the influx of new materials from around the world as Europe adopted more raw materials from Asia and India. These materials enabled hat makers to experiment with more vibrant colors and embellishments, allowing them to create more elaborate pieces that, by extension, served as reflections of the wearer’s personality and style.
The Advent of Machine-Made Hats
It was the industrial revolution of 19th century that really changed the trajectory of the hat. With the advent of new, sophisticated machine-making, hats became mass-produced and were sold cheaply around the world. Over time, hats eventually developed into a fashionable symbol and were made to match people’s attire.
Modern Hats of the 20th Century
As the twentieth century rolled around, the debate over what hats mean and which ones to wear really began to take shape. At the turn of the century, hats were considered to be quite modern but had largely adopted more of a utilitarian look. The 1920s brought along brighter, more vibrant hats that could be coordinated with flapper dresses, whereas the 1930s introduced a more traditional look with large feathered and lace hats that added a touch of glamour to an outfit.
By the 1950s and 1960s, hats had mostly become informal fashion statements and were paired with both men’s and womenswear alike. Formal dress hats, however, still held a place in the collective memory of hat wearers; the classic bowler being the most iconic.
The Present-Day State of Hats
In the present era, the marvel of hats knows no bounds. Contemporary fashion has re-envisioned featureless hats and given them a new identity. Straw hats, flower-adorned hats, berets, turbans and brightly-hued beanies are worn as part of an ensemble, or as a statement of individual style.
For every occasion, and every style, hats come in all shapes and colors, and they are making a comeback in a big way. From classic hats such as the fedora, porkpie and trilby, to modern modern pieces like Nike snapbacks and classic fedoras, hats and the ideas that garments evoke have been the starting point for interesting trends in the fashion industry.
Hats have been around for thousands of years, but the significance that they hold has greatly changed. From a symbol of social standing and faith to a fashion statement, hats have been through an amazing history that has seen them defy time and remain relevant in the fashion industry. Today, there is a hat for every look and every occasion, including to make statements about individual style and individuality. The ever-evolving journey of hats is sure to continue as new fashion trends unfold.
