Mad Hatters & English Men

The Bowler Hat was devised in 1849 by the London hat-makers Thomas & William Bowler of hat makers Lock & Co.

They were commissioned by a William Coke, a customer who designed a close fitting, low crowned hat to improve protection against low hanging branches while on horseback.

When Coke arrived in London on 17 December 1849 to collect his hat, he reportedly placed it on the floor and stamped hard on it twice to test its strength
The hat withstood this test and Coke paid 12 shillings for it
The Bowler also became the most popular hat in the American West - Where it’s named the Derby
Both cowboys and railroad workers preferred the hat because it would not blow off easily in strong wind, or when sticking one’s head out the window of a speeding train

This is frightfully British fashion for the more discerning gent & adds a touch of class to any wardrobe

“I love to see men in hats, always makes me smile”
aGENCY
