Ever-changing Victorian Hat Styles
The Victorian era actually began in 1837 and ended with Queen Victoria's death in 1901, but some have stretched the period to include the years both before and after these dates, roughly from the Napoleonic Wars until the outbreak of World War I in 1914
Over the course of nearly 100 years, Victorian hat styles underwent significant changes that reflected the evolving fashion trends, societal shifts, and technological advancements of the era. From the early 19th century to the early 20th century, these changes were marked by distinct shifts in silhouette, materials, embellishments, and overall design.
Townsend’s Monthly Magazine ca. 1830, Plate 562
Early 19th Century (Early Victorian Era, 1830s-1850s): Hats during this period were relatively small and often featured bonnet-like shapes with wide brims that framed the face. They were typically made from straw or silk and adorned with ribbons, flowers, and feathers. The early Victorian era emphasized modesty and elegance, with bonnets covering the ears and providing a demure appearance.
Mid 19th Century (1850s-1870s): As the mid-19th century arrived, hat styles grew larger and more elaborate. The introduction of the crinoline silhouette influenced hat design, leading to the popularity of tall crowned hats with elaborate trimmings. Bonnets evolved to include more lavish decorations such as silk flowers, lace, and ribbons. Trimmings began to extend upwards, creating a more vertical profile.
Late 19th Century (1880s-1890s): The late Victorian era saw an explosion of hat styles, with a move away from the bonnet and towards hats that perched on top of the head. Hats became flatter and wider, featuring intricate details like feathers, veils, and elaborate bows. The "Gibson Girl" look emerged, characterized by wide-brimmed hats with upturned brims, often accompanied by lavish floral arrangements.
The late 19th century, spanning from the 1880s to the early 1900s, was a period of diverse and dynamic hat styles. This era was characterized by a shift from the elaborate and wide-brimmed hats of the mid-century to more streamlined and sculptural designs. Here are some notable hat styles from the 1880s to 1900:
Merry Widow Hat: The "Merry Widow" hat, popularized by the operetta of the same name, was a significant style in the late 1880s. This hat featured a wide, flat crown and an oversized, shallow brim that extended horizontally. It was often lavishly decorated with ribbons, bows, feathers, and flowers. The hat's wide proportions were intended to frame the face and showcase the wearer's fashionable hairstyle.
Gibson Girl Hat: Inspired by the illustrations of artist Charles Dana Gibson, the Gibson Girl hat was a hallmark of the late 19th century. These hats featured a flattened crown and a wide brim, often turned up at the back. Ribbons, bows, and sometimes veils were used as embellishments. The overall look exuded elegance and sophistication, mirroring the fashionable Gibson Girl ideal.
Toque Hat: Toque hats were close-fitting, small-crowned hats with various brim styles, popular during the late 19th century. They were often worn tilted to one side and adorned with feathers, bows, and sometimes lace. Toque hats offered a more tailored and subtle alternative to the larger and more ornate hats of earlier decades.
Picture Hat: The picture hat, particularly popular in the Edwardian era (early 1900s), was characterized by its wide, expansive brim that framed the face and sometimes extended over the shoulders. These hats were often decorated with lavish ribbons, bows, flowers, and feathers, creating a striking and glamorous look.
Boater Hat: The boater hat was a unisex style characterized by its flat crown and stiff, flat brim. It was popular among both men and women, often worn for outdoor activities or casual events. Boater hats were typically adorned with contrasting ribbons, adding a touch of color and charm.
Sailor Hat: Inspired by naval uniforms, sailor hats became a fashionable choice for women and children. These hats featured a flat, round crown and a short, flat brim. Decorative elements like ribbon bands, bows, and sometimes a "sailor" knot added a nautical touch.
Cartwheel Hat: The cartwheel hat was a wide-brimmed style that gained popularity in the early 20th century. It featured a large, circular brim that could extend up to 18 inches or more. These hats were often adorned with feathers, bows, and elaborate trimmings, making a bold fashion statement.
During the late 19th century and the turn of the 20th century, hat styles ranged from the extravagant and elaborate to the more tailored and subtle. The evolution of these styles reflected the changing ideals of femininity, societal norms, and fashion aesthetics of the time.
Throughout these nearly 100 years, Victorian hat styles transitioned from the intricate and ornate designs of the mid-19th century to the more streamlined and modern styles of the early 20th century. Societal changes, technological innovations, and shifts in fashion ideals all played a role in shaping these transformations, resulting in a diverse and fascinating array of hat styles that mirrored the ever-changing landscape of the times.