So you’ve
done it; you’ve finally been invited to one of those swanky black tie affairs
downtown. Congratulations, you’ll get to rub elbows and
talk politics with those ritzy socialites in some posh building with (dare I say)
hors d’oeuvres, but, with the night approaching with every anxious breath, you’re
not sure what to wear. Don’t worry
fellow hatters, today on the hebephrenic hatter we’re featuring the top hat, so,
rest assured, those polished patricians and debutantes will know you’re no dilettante
to style.
The top
hat was invented in 1797 by hatter John Hetherington, and, despite its all but
subtle appearance, it didn’t gain mainstream popularity until the depletion of
the American beaver created a necessity for a more economical hat. In fact, the top hat came from all but subtle
beginnings. According to several websites
when John Hetherington wore is first top hat it caused quite the stir; women
fainted, children panicked, a boy was trampled by a mob and subsequently broke
his arm, and our humble protagonist John Hetherington was arrested for what
police might label to today as disturbing the peace. According to Ms. Lou Carver a newspaper
retelling of the event states that Hetherington was arrested for wearing “a
tall structure having a shining luster calculated to frighten timid people”
(Carver www.victoriana.com). As you’ve
guess the top hat created quite the commotion.
So, as
you dress for your night on the town, remember, that if you want to cause a stir,
the top hat is your hat. From disturbing
the peace to clothing the aristocracy, the top hat is the hat for your upper
class night on the town.
