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.
Pretty interesting history behind the rambunctious top hat! That is funny how it caused such hysteria during its debut. I wonder if people thought the wearer's head extended that high, as if the hat was tailor-made for freaks with cone-heads or something. I like the picture you included too, right when I saw it, it reminded me of Jiminy Cricket from Pinocchio... not even Abraham Lincoln! Cool post, all these hat blogs are making me want to become more fashionable with my plain dome.
ReplyDeleteOne question: is it socially acceptable for ladies to wear top hats? And one more, can a spinster pull off one of these fancy hats? I hope so, because you just sold me on them. Great stuff here begunder. You always do well to incorporate humor within your log as well as some useful information on the hat you are pitching. Perhaps add a personal touch to your blog. What are your thoughts on the top hat? Which hat is your favorite? Maybe even a picture of you wearing the hat! Loved the picture you had, but you really should have used Abe Lincoln. Oh! maybe pictures of historic figures wearing the featured hat! Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteYour posts are so interesting! I would have never guessed that this what the particular history behind the top hat. Crazy! I am shocked at the fact that it is seen as sort of a rebellious hat. Really interesting stuff! I'm excited to see the history behind your next hat.
ReplyDelete