The History Behind the Classic Fedora Hats

The ‘center-creased, soft-brimmed hat’ otherwise known as the fedora is considered iconic today. It seems to have been around forever, with Hollywood stars of the 1950s and early 1960s making fedora hats for men wildly popular. In fact, this hat had become the defining characteristic of a whole generation of well-dressed men!

It will come as a surprise to many that the fedora first debuted as a female hat way back in 1882. French dramatist, Victorien Sardou penned a play named Fédora with the titular role of the Russian Princess, Fédora Romanoff played by then famous actress Sarah Bernhardt. As part of her costume, she wore this new style of hat which soon became popular with women. It was even adopted as the defining symbol of women’s rights activists. 

The fedora crossed the gender line years later - in 1924 - when Prince Edward of Britain started favoring this soft and comfortable hat in place of the stiff Homburg. The fedora was adopted by men and soon replaced bowlers, flat caps and top hats, especially for horse races and Polo matches. It was propelled into a stylish accessory and even went on to become associated with prohibition and gangsters.

In the 1940s and 1950s, just as the fedora was on the wane, Hollywood brought it back in the mainstream with top names like Humphrey Bogart and Cary Grant sporting fedoras with aplomb on the silver screen. Coupled with crooner Frank Sinatra flaunting the hat on stage, the fedora soon transformed into an icon of manliness and mystery.

The fedora lost popularity once more with the advent of more informal clothing. But Harrison Ford’s ‘Indiana Jones; revived the legacy of the fedora and it continues to linger till date. Over the years, many pop stars like Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake and Brittany Spears have sported fedoras in their live appearances and kept it trending.

Apart from these celebrities, legendary college football coach Paul Bear Bryant is remembered for his trademark fedora while standing on the sidelines of his teams’ games. Even professional athletes like Cam Newton and LeBron James incorporated the fedora into their post-game interview look. In today’s times, fictional characters from Mad Men to Peaky Blinders are again associated with the fedora. Professional boxer, Floyd Mayweather also never misses a chance to parade his iconic collection of fedoras.

When it comes to where to pick the best fedora hats for women and men, there’s no question of looking beyond Keith & James (www.keithandjames.com). The top-billed hat maker offers a wide range of fedora hats in varying styles, colors and sizes. They are crafted from pure wool and straw versions are also available for the summer days. The signature red suede brim and logo pin ensures that these hats stand out for all the right reasons!

Not Just in Looks but Comfort, The Ultimate Fedora Hat

 

The perfect center dip on the crown, a wide brim with the signature under brim peeping from below, the iconic red button belting the crown makes it the ultimate style statement. The Kings collection fedora hats for men from Keith and James is set to reign high in the fashion circuit. Match your size and own your fedora hat. Don't forget the red satin carry bag bearing the logo pin. Fasten the string when you carry your hat to places. Splash your sense of style, order today from https://www.keithandjames.com/.

Doffing Your Hat To The Head Gear Fashion Trends of 2021

It’s a brand new year with new beginnings and hopefully good tidings in store. As the world gears up for a slow return to normalcy with the roll-out of different vaccines around the globe, the fashion world is also marking a return with new trends in store.

After being stuck inside for most of 2020 in shorts, sweatpants and hoodies, 2021 will soon see people stepping out in their fashionable best once again, albeit with their masks firmly in place.

The fashion trends seem to be more inclined towards smart silhouettes and soft colors with sustainability being the buzzword all around. This is going to be the year of the accessories as they make a comeback from the rear of our wardrobes. Indeed, it is going to be all about footwear, bags, belts, hats, scarves and of course, the masks, shields and gloves if you so wish.

The hat trends are actually here to stay as they add a sense of drama to a smart outfit and can elevate a simple one to an exciting and exuberant level. You can use a hat to protect your hair, cover a bad hair day or just look chic when it suits your fancy.

For instance, fedora hats for women are the easiest way to stand out from the crowd for the right reasons. It can be plain and practical – like a simple wool fedora to ward off the chill of the winter – to stylish and conspicuous options in bright neon colors.

The trick here is to plan out the look in advance rather than just popping a favored hat just before stepping out. Pair a bright fedora with a monochrome outfit for a daring pop of color or team a vivid dress with a wide brimmed fedora in a muted shade. Either way, the brim of the fedora will keep the sun out of your eyes and protect your skin even as it makes you look classy and fashionable.

Similarly, the year is going to be big on bucket hats. But if you prefer a more serene look, you can opt for a neutral-toned beret to look trendy. The hats can be further styled with knitted accessories, flowers, buttons or even a lapel pin. They can be paired with fashionable attire or every day clothes too.

Keith and James (www.keithandjames.com) offers a wide range of fedora hats for men and women in different styles and colors. There are vivid and rich tones and classic pastel color palettes, including some unusual hues as well. There is definitely a hat here for everyone, including the most fastidious of shoppers. The material ranges from pure wool for the cool fall and winter days to straw fedoras for summer days and beach parties.