Elegant Men’s Black Top Hat – 100% Wool

Description

100% Wool
Imported
dry clean
100% Brand New
Crown: 7 inches high, Brim: 2 inches wide
One size fits most

This elegant top hat will add timeless style to any outfit. Constructed of 100% wool felt, this hat is finished with grosgrain ribbon trim and a feather accent. In the 1920’s top hats had become popular with all social classes, with even workingmen wearing them. At that time those worn by members of the upper classes were usually made of felted beaver fur, while those worn by workingmen were made of rabbit fur. The hats became part of the uniforms worn by policemen and postmen (to give them the appearance of authority); since these people spent most of their time outdoors, their hats were topped with black oilcloth. During the early part of the 19th century felted beaver fur was gradually replaced by silk, though the silk topper met with resistance from those who preferred the beaver hat. A short-lived fad in the 1820s and 1830s was the style of top-hat with concave sides. The peak of the top hats popularity in the 1840s and the 1850s saw it reach its most extreme form, with ever higher crowns and narrow brims. The stovepipe hat was a variety with mostly straight sides, while one with slightly convex sides was called the chimney. The stovepipe hat was popularized in the US by Abraham Lincoln during his presidency; it is said that Lincoln would keep important letters inside the hat.

Top hats, also known as high hats or toppers, became popular in the late 18th century and remained popular through the end of the 19th century. They were a more refined alternative to the tricorn and bicorne hats that were popular at the time, and their tall, cylindrical shape set them apart. Top hats were traditionally made of black or grey silk and were associated with formal wear, such as white tie, morning dress, or frock coat. They were also a symbol of social status and were worn by gentlemen of all classes.

The top hat’s popularity increased in the 19th century, especially after Prince Albert began wearing one regularly. The 1850s were considered the golden age of the top hat, but by the early 20th century, they were gradually reserved for more formal occasions as attire became more informal. Top hats declined in popularity during the counterculture of the 1960s, but have enjoyed a resurgence in recent years and are still popular today for both men and women.