The bowler hat is a classic piece of fashion that has stood the test of time. With its simple and elegant design, it became a symbol of British style. Popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, it was worn by both men and women as part of formal outfits. Although it’s not as common today, the bowler hat still holds a special place in fashion. In this article, we’ll take a look at the history of the bowler hat, how it became so popular, and why it continues to be admired. We’ll also explore some of the top collections that have kept the bowler hat alive, including those from Novella Hats, and see how this timeless accessory has been updated to fit today’s fashion trends.

The Creation of the Bowler Hat

The bowler hat was created in 1849 by two London hat-makers, Thomas and William Bowler. They designed it to protect the heads of gamekeepers from tree branches while keeping a smart look. The original design had a rounded crown and a small brim, which became the classic look of the bowler hat.

The Bowler brothers were asked by a client to make a hat that could survive rough conditions, especially outdoors. The top hat was popular at the time, but it wasn’t as durable. The bowler hat was made to be strong and stylish, and it quickly became popular.

The Bowler Hat Becomes Popular

Even though the bowler hat was designed for a practical purpose, it soon became fashionable, especially in London. The simple design made it perfect for businessmen, bankers, and politicians. It quickly became a sign of professionalism and class.

As cities grew and society changed, the bowler hat became associated with the middle class. It was a more modest option compared to the tall and fancy top hats worn by the upper class. Many workers and professionals liked how the bowler was both stylish and practical.

By the late 1800s, the bowler hat had become a part of everyday fashion, particularly for men who valued both tradition and sophistication.

The Bowler Hat and British Culture

The bowler hat became a symbol of British culture and identity. It was often seen on the streets of London, worn by well-dressed men, and became a symbol of British politeness and order. Its image became a part of the country’s sense of style.

One of the most famous examples of the bowler hat in British culture is from the movie Dr. Strangelove (1964), where the character Group Captain Mandrake, played by Peter Sellers, wore the hat as part of his military uniform. This helped show the bowler hat as an important part of British fashion.

The bowler hat also became a symbol of clever thieves in fiction, like the "gentleman thief" characters in TV shows and books. Over time, it became more than just a hat—it was a mark of British style.

The Decline and Return of the Bowler Hat

By the middle of the 20th century, the bowler hat began to lose popularity. In the 1960s and 1970s, fashion trends shifted toward more relaxed, modern styles. The younger generation preferred less formal clothing, and hats in general weren’t as commonly worn.

Still, the bowler hat didn’t completely disappear. It was still worn by those who liked its classic look. In the 1980s, designers like Jean Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood started bringing it back, giving the traditional hat a fresh twist. This revival helped bring new interest in the bowler hat.

Another reason the bowler hat came back into the spotlight was the "Bowler Hat Appeal" in 1989, which encouraged people to wear the hat in support of war veterans. This campaign reminded people of the hat’s deep connection to British history and tradition.

The Bowler Hat in Popular Culture

Throughout the years, the bowler hat has appeared in movies, books, and art, often linked to British identity and style. One of the most famous uses of the bowler hat in pop culture is from the movie A Clockwork Orange (1971). In the film, the main character Alex, played by Malcolm McDowell, wore a bowler hat as part of his tough, rebellious image. This gave the bowler hat a new meaning, showing it as a symbol of both rebellion and British tradition.

The bowler hat also became a popular image in the art world, especially in surrealism. The artist René Magritte often painted people wearing bowler hats in his strange, dream-like images. One of his most famous paintings, The Son of Man (1964), shows a man in a bowler hat with his face hidden by an apple. This kind of artwork added mystery to the image of the bowler hat, making it more than just a piece of clothing.

The Bowler Hat Today

Today, the bowler hat is still worn, though it’s not as common in everyday fashion. It is mostly seen at special events like weddings, formal parties, or traditional occasions like the Royal Ascot horse races. Even though it’s not as widely worn as it once was, the bowler hat continues to be a symbol of class and tradition.

For many, the bowler hat is still a prized item to collect. People who appreciate vintage fashion or classic style often search for high-quality bowler hats to add to their collections. Novella Hats, for example, offers a beautiful collection of bowler hats that mix traditional design with modern touches. Their hats are carefully made, ensuring that they look great and last for many years.

Final Thoughts: Novella Hats and Their Bowler Hat Collection

In conclusion, the bowler hat has a long and rich history, from its practical beginnings to its role as a symbol of British style. Though its popularity may have faded over time, the bowler hat still represents elegance and sophistication.

For those looking to add a bowler hat to their wardrobe, Novella Hats offers a selection of well-made, stylish options. Their collection allows fans of classic fashion to enjoy the timeless appeal of the bowler hat with a contemporary feel. To see their collection and find your perfect bowler hat, visit their Bowler Hats collection.

The bowler hat is more than just a piece of clothing—it’s a symbol of history, style, and tradition that continues to captivate people around the world. Whether you wear it for fashion, tradition, or simply as a collector’s item, the bowler hat remains an iconic and stylish accessory.