Men's Dress Hats: A Guide to Bowlers, Derbys, Fedoras, and Godfathers

Dress hats have been a symbol of style and elegance for men for centuries. They have been worn by kings, presidents, and gentlemen of all walks of life. Dress hats come in different styles and materials, each with its unique character and history. This article will focus on four classic dress hats: bowlers, derbys, fedoras, and godfathers.

Bowler Hat

The bowler hat, also known as a derby hat, is a round, hard felt hat with a short brim and a flat top. It was first designed in 1849 by the London hat makers James and William Bowler for gamekeepers and horseback riders. The bowler hat quickly became popular among working-class men, especially in the banking and finance industry.

In the early 20th century, the bowler hat was a staple in men's fashion. It was worn by politicians, businessmen, and even gangsters. It was also popular in the entertainment industry, with iconic figures like Charlie Chaplin and Laurel and Hardy wearing bowler hats in their films.

Today, the bowler hat is still a popular dress hat, although it is not as common as it once was. It is a versatile hat that can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. It is best paired with a tailored suit or a tweed jacket and trousers.

Derby Hat

The derby hat is similar to the bowler hat, but it has a wider brim and a less defined crown. The derby hat was first designed in the mid-19th century by a hatter named George Lock. It was named after the Earl of Derby, who commissioned the hat.

The derby hat was initially popular among horseback riders and other sportsmen. However, it quickly became a fashion accessory for men, particularly in the United States. It was often worn with a morning coat, a waistcoat, and striped trousers.

The derby hat is still worn today, although it is not as popular as it once was. It is a versatile hat that can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. It is best paired with a suit or a blazer and trousers.

Fedoras

The fedora is a soft felt hat with a wide brim and a creased crown. It was first introduced in the late 19th century and quickly became a popular dress hat for men. It was originally designed for women but was adapted for men's fashion.

The fedora was popularized in the 1920s and 1930s by Hollywood actors like Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant. It became a symbol of style and sophistication and was often worn with a suit or a trench coat.

The fedora is still a popular dress hat today. It is a versatile hat that can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. It is best paired with a tailored suit or a sports jacket and trousers.

Godfather Hats

The godfather hat, also known as a homburg hat, is a dress hat with a stiff brim and a creased crown. It was first introduced in the late 19th century and quickly became popular among businessmen and politicians.

The godfather hat became popular in the entertainment industry in the 1940s and 1950s. It was often worn by actors like Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra in their films. The godfather hat became a symbol of power and authority, often associated with the Mafia and other criminal organizations.

Today, the godfather hat is still a popular dress hat. It is a versatile hat that can be worn with both formal and casual outfits. It is best paired with a suit or a sports jacket and trousers.