national-felt-hat-day-september-15

National Felt Hat Day September 15

Have you ever tipped your hat to the fascinating journey of felt hats through history? From the ancient Sumerians and Egyptians to the iconic Stetson, these stylish headpieces have shaded more than just faces from the sun. They've been a fashion statement, a status symbol, and a cultural icon across centuries. National Felt Hat Day on September 15 isn't just another day on the calendar; it's a nod to the craftsmanship, tradition, and evolution of felt hats. Whether worn by presidents, movie stars, or the everyday person, felt hats have woven their way into the fabric of history, offering protection, adding flair, and making statements. As we celebrate this day, let's tip our hats to the enduring legacy and versatility of felt hats, a testament to human ingenuity and style.

Key Takeaway

National Felt Hat Day on September 15 celebrates the history and importance of felt hats, which have been used for protection for thousands of years.
Felt hats gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages and became a symbol of wealth and status. The Stetson hat, invented in 1865, became an iconic symbol of the American West. Felt hats continue to be worn today for practical and fashion purposes.

Timeline

1849
Invention of the first felt hat
American inventor, Joshua Cowen, patents the first machine to manufacture felt hats.
1865
Introduction of the Bowler hat
Thomas and William Bowler introduce the Bowler hat in London, which becomes popular among the working class.
1900
Rise of the Fedora
The Fedora becomes a popular hat style in the United States, worn by both men and women.
1924
Homburg hat popularity
The Homburg hat, a stiff-brimmed hat with a grosgrain band, gains popularity in Europe and North America.
1940
Trilby hat popularity
The Trilby hat, a smaller version of the Fedora, becomes popular in the United States.
1954
Introduction of the Aquascutum Rain Hat
British fashion label, Aquascutum, introduces the first waterproof felt hat.
1960
Decline in hat-wearing
Hat-wearing declines in popularity in the United States, due to changes in fashion and the increasing use of cars.
1980
Revival of hat-wearing
Hat-wearing experiences a revival, with celebrities and designers promoting the trend.
2016
National Felt Hat Day
September 15 is officially declared National Felt Hat Day in the United States.

Day Activities

  1. Craft Your Own Felt Hat: Dive into the spirit of National Felt Hat Day by crafting your very own felt hat. This hands-on activity not only pays homage to the age-old tradition of hat-making but also sparks creativity. Gather some felt, a needle, thread, and any decorations you fancy, like feathers or beads, to make your masterpiece stand out. It's a perfect way to tip your hat to history while flaunting a unique piece.

  2. Hat History Hunt: Why not turn National Felt Hat Day into an educational adventure? Embark on a hat history hunt by researching different styles of felt hats from various eras and cultures. From the sophisticated fedoras to the rugged cowboy Stetsons, each hat has a story to tell. Share your findings with friends or on social media, spreading the word about this fascinating aspect of fashion history.

  3. Felt Hat Fashion Show: Host a felt hat fashion show to celebrate in style. Invite friends to strut their stuff, showcasing their favorite felt hats. Whether it's a vintage piece, a modern design, or a DIY creation, this event is all about expressing individuality and appreciation for felt hats. It's a fun way to see how these accessories have evolved while keeping their timeless appeal.

Interesting Facts

1. Ancient Origins

Felt hats date back to ancient civilizations like the Sumerians and Egyptians.

2. Medieval Popularity

In the Middle Ages, felt hats were all the rage in Europe, especially Italy and France.

3. Symbol of Wealth

By the 16th and 17th centuries, felt hats had become a status symbol adorned with decorations.

4. The Stetson Legacy

John B. Stetson's invention, the Boss of the Plains, became an iconic American West symbol.

5. Modern Appeal

Today, felt hats are worn for both practical reasons and fashion, celebrating their enduring legacy.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating craftsmanship and tradition: National Felt Hat Day shines a spotlight on the incredible skill and artistry behind making felt hats. For centuries, these hats have been crafted with meticulous care, evolving from simple protective gear to fashionable statements. This day reminds us of the dedication of hat-makers who weave together tradition and innovation to keep this craft alive.

  • A nod to cultural heritage: Felt hats aren't just accessories; they're woven into the fabric of many cultures around the world. From the iconic Stetson in the American West symbolizing rugged individualism to the traditional hats worn in Europe, each style tells a story. National Felt Hat Day encourages us to dive into these narratives, celebrating the diverse histories and identities that felt hats represent.

  • Fashion and practicality combined: Let's face it, felt hats are cool. They've graced the heads of movie stars, presidents, and everyday folks, offering both style and shelter from the elements. On National Felt Hat Day, we celebrate this unique blend of fashion and function that has made felt hats a timeless choice for people across the globe. So, tip your hat to this enduring trend that keeps us looking sharp and feeling protected, no matter the weather.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 15 2022
SEPTEMBER 15 2023
SEPTEMBER 15 2024
SEPTEMBER 15 2025
SEPTEMBER 15 2026
SEPTEMBER 15 2027
SEPTEMBER 15 2028

FAQ

What is National Felt Hat Day?

On September 15th, tip your hat for National Felt Hat Day! This day celebrates the timeless style and practicality of felt hats, a favorite accessory throughout history.

What national day is on September 15?

The day of September 15 is notable as the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, making it a day of great significance. Following close behind, Mexico and Chile mark their independence on September 16 and September 18, respectively.

Why is National Hat Day celebrated?

NATIONAL HAT DAY HISTORY celebrates the diverse and rich history of hats, from the elegant to the everyday. On this day, folks don hats ranging from playful pirate hats to professional football helmets, symbolizing the unique roles hats have played in fashion and function. It also harks back to 1797, marking the debut of the top hat in court.

What day do you start wearing felt hats?

Felt hat season kicks off right after Labor Day, marking the transition to cooler weather headgear. Despite the rise in temperatures, formal events during summer might still call for a felt hat. Officially, felt hat season stretches until May, with Memorial Day often cited as its closing date.