National Felt Hat Day
Why it matters
CELEBRATE IN STYLE
Today, we honor the timeless elegance of felt hats with a rich history that spans generations.
THE STORY
National Felt Hat Day is celebrated on February 15 each year, providing a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of felt hats in America. These hats have adorned heads from the rugged Wild West to the fashionable streets of modern cities. Today, they serve not only as stylish accessories but also as symbols of craftsmanship.
The craft of felt hat-making has a storied past, originating thousands of years ago. Felt hats were first made by nomadic tribes in Central Asia, who used animal fur to create durable headwear. Over time, this technique spread across continents, influencing styles in Europe and eventually leading to the popularization of felt hats in America during the 19th century.
In America, felt hats became synonymous with iconic figures like cowboys, soldiers, and even celebrities—each wearing them as a statement of identity. Felt hats are available in various styles, including fedoras, cowboys, and bowlers, allowing individuals to express their personality. Today, the diverse styles of felt hats continue to evolve, reflecting contemporary tastes while honoring tradition.
As we celebrate National Felt Hat Day, we invite everyone to don a felt hat and appreciate the artistry involved in its creation. Whether it’s a vintage find or a modern masterpiece, each hat tells a story. Join the celebration by sharing your favorite felt hat moments and supporting local hat makers who keep this wonderful tradition alive.
A hat is a flag, a shield, and a badge.
WORTH KNOWING
Explore Styles
From fedoras to wide-brimmed hats, felt comes in many shapes and sizes. Discover which style suits you and enhances your outfit.
Craft Your Own
Get creative and make your own felt hat at home. Use craft felt, scissors, and glue to design a unique piece that reflects your personality.
Global Influence
Felt hats are not just an American trend; they have global appeal. Explore how different cultures incorporate felt into their traditional attire.
Hat Etiquette
Learn about the dos and don’ts of wearing hats in various settings. Understanding hat etiquette can enhance your social experiences.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
Oldest Hat
The oldest known felt hat dates back to 3,000 B.C. and was found in Mongolia.
Oscar Winners
Many Oscar winners have worn felt hats on the red carpet, adding to their iconic looks.
Felt Material
Felt is made from animal fur, typically sheep’s wool, processed into a dense fabric.
Celebrity Styles
Famous figures like Frank Sinatra and John Wayne popularized the felt fedora.
Hat Makers
The art of hat-making is still practiced by skilled artisans in various parts of the world.
Fashion Cycles
Felt hats often cycle in and out of fashion but remain a classic choice for many.
Hat Preservation
Proper care and storage can significantly extend the life of felt hats.
READ MORE
Hats: A History
Graham Thompson · 2014
Explore the evolution of hats through the ages, focusing on materials and styles, including felt.
The Hat Book
Christine S. Lee · 2018
This guide covers the techniques of hat-making, offering insights into creating beautiful felt hats.
Felt Hats in Fashion
Mia Johnson · 2021
Dive into the role of felt hats in fashion history, showcasing key moments and styles.
Mastering Felt
Annie R. Bell · 2019
A comprehensive look at the craftsmanship behind felt, detailing techniques used by master hat makers.
PAIR IT WITH
Felt hats can elevate casual outfits, adding a touch of sophistication.
Perfect for outdoor events, a felt hat can provide shade while enhancing your style.
Wearing a felt hat shields your face from the sun, combining style with functionality.
Many artisans offer custom felt hat designs, allowing for personal expression.
Join the Celebration
Wear your favorite felt hat today and share your style with others. Let’s honor this tradition together.