Top Hats

Definition

Top hats are tall, cylindrical hats with a flat crown and a wide brim, traditionally made from silk or felt. They became a symbol of formal wear and social status in the 19th century, especially during and after the French Revolution when fashion began to reflect individual identity and societal changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The popularity of top hats surged in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, coinciding with changes in social structure following the French Revolution.
2. Top hats were often associated with the upper classes and formal events, becoming a symbol of wealth and respectability.
3. They were made from various materials, including silk plush and beaver fur, which contributed to their luxurious appearance.
4. By the mid-19th century, top hats became a staple at events such as weddings, balls, and even horse races, solidifying their place in Western fashion history.
5. The decline in the popularity of top hats began in the early 20th century as casual styles gained favor and societal norms around formal dress shifted.

Review Questions

• How did the French Revolution influence the adoption of top hats in fashion?
  • The French Revolution marked a significant shift in social structures and attitudes towards fashion. As traditional hierarchies were challenged, top hats emerged as a symbol of elegance and refinement among the emerging middle class. They represented a desire for individual identity and social mobility, allowing wearers to align themselves with more privileged classes. This cultural shift led to top hats becoming widely accepted as formal wear across Europe.
• What role did top hats play in the context of social class distinctions during the 19th century?
  • Top hats were closely tied to social class distinctions in the 19th century. They were primarily worn by the upper classes and signified wealth, power, and respectability. The hat's association with formal events further entrenched its status as a marker of class. As different classes adopted various styles over time, top hats became less common among lower classes but remained a staple for those seeking to convey sophistication and adherence to social norms.
• Evaluate how top hats reflect broader societal changes in Western fashion from the late 18th to early 20th centuries.
  • Top hats serve as a lens through which we can evaluate broader societal changes in Western fashion between the late 18th and early 20th centuries. Initially embraced by aristocrats during the revolutionary era, they symbolized changing attitudes toward class and individuality. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, more people sought to emulate upper-class styles through clothing like top hats, reflecting aspirations for upward mobility. However, by the early 20th century, shifts toward more relaxed attire indicated a transformation in societal values regarding formality and status, leading to a decline in top hat popularity as casual fashion took precedence.

Related terms

Frock Coat: A long coat that became popular in the 19th century, often worn with top hats as part of formal attire, reflecting the sophisticated styles of the time.

Beau Brummell: An iconic figure in Regency England known for his dandy style, which included wearing top hats and emphasized the importance of personal grooming and fashion.

Dandyism: A social and cultural movement characterized by an emphasis on fashion and refinement, where individuals, often men, would adopt extravagant styles like top hats to express their identities.