19th Century Hats: 1840 – 1850

The bonnet took front and center in this decade and, in fact, stayed front and center the entire time, a rather unusual phenomenon. Technically, there were hats, but as Cunnington points out, “the hat could do no more than imitate [the bonnet and capote] so closely as to be practically indistinguishable…” (Cunnington, English Women’s ClothingContinueContinue reading “19th Century Hats: 1840 – 1850”

19th Century Hats: 1830 – 1840

This decade started out as the last one ended – with extravagant, large hats, overloaded with trim. But, by the end of the decade, hats followed the style of dress and significantly toned down, becoming slimmer, more unassuming, and sedate (at least by comparison). Cunnington said of the 1830s, “The novice may have some difficultyContinueContinue reading “19th Century Hats: 1830 – 1840”

19th Century Hats: 1820 – 1830

And enter the era of flowers and ribbons! Bonnets, hats of various kinds (but particularly leghorn), and turbans were all popular during this decade, with the size of the hats growing so large by the end of the decade that Cunnington mentions animals in the streets would shy away from them! Quick Overview While bonnets,ContinueContinue reading “19th Century Hats: 1820 – 1830”