The Flat Cap - A Classic Men's Hat
A flat cap is a classic men's hat that's more than just another style trend. This old-fashioned, classic piece of headwear has been an important part of British culture for longer than most can remember. It's a hat that has been worn by people from all walks of life, serving many different purposes. It has even held cultural, religious and social connotations at different times in British history. When most people think of the flat cap they might picture Jim Branning from EastEnders or Del Boy Trotter from Only Fools and Horses, or maybe an image of a modest work-a-day individual wearing an old suit with a flat cap perched on their noggen.
The flat cap has a number of different aliases, including the ivy cap, cabbie cap (after London taxi drivers), duckbill hat, driving cap, sixpence, and paddy cap. It is a rounded cap with a small stiff brim on the front, and it's typically made from wool. It's a bit like the bowler or top hat, but it's much less formal.
This cap's origin dates back to the fourteenth century in Northern England. It was a popular choice amongst tradesmen, and it was also often seen in portraits of people from lower classes. In fact, in 1571 a law was passed in Great Britain that stipulated any male over the age of six had to wear a cap made from wool on Sundays and public holidays. This odd bit of protectionist legislation, which excluded nobility, didn't last very long but the flat cap continued to be a staple for working class Englishmen for centuries after.
It might not have the same panache as a fedora or snapback, but there's something about it that's timeless and effortlessly cool. It's a hat that can be worn at a casual country event or when you're walking to the local shop to buy milk, and it goes well with anything from a summer suit to a wool overcoat.
Choosing the right style of flat cap starts with knowing your head size. It's best to use a measuring tape that can be folded around your forehead, bringing it to the top of your ears and the fullest part of your head. Then just pick a cap that fits your head perfectly.
A good flat cap should fit snugly on your head and not be loose or tight around the crown. It should also be comfortable and have a slight stretch to fit your head. It's also a good idea to have your flat cap custom-made so you can be sure it will be a perfect fit. It will also be a lot more expensive than buying a ready-made flat cap, but it's worth it for the quality and comfort it provides. Once you own your own flat cap, it's yours to wear whenever and however you choose. Just don't forget to keep it snapped or buttoned up. That's the real secret to a successful flat cap look.