What in the world is a cloche hat?
A fitted, bell-shaped hat for women, the cloche hat became especially popular during the 1920s. Cloche is the French word for “bell” and is pronounced klosh with a long o. This style remained popular until 1933.
The hats were made of felt to conform to the head. Women wore the hats low on the forehead with the eyes slightly below the brim. Summer versions were also made from sisal and straw. The hats were accessorized with beads or lace and considered appropriate fashion accompaniments to evening or cocktail wear, for dancing and even bridal wear.
During the height of the Great Gatsby years with its Art Deco style, the cloche became ornamented with appliques, embroidery, jewels, scarves, fans and feather. At the end of the cloche era, it became fashionable to turn the brim upwards.
Ribbons attached to the wearer’s cloche sent secret messages. An arrowlike ribbon indicated a girl was single but had given her heart to another. A knot signaled marriage. A flamboyant bow shouted availability.
The cloche made a fashion comeback in the 1960s and again in the late 1980s. Anyone want to help Carolina Reckoning initiate a new fashion trend in the 21st century?
Trivia quiz—What color was the cloche hat in Carolina Reckoning?
Do you have a favorite hat? Send me a photo. I’d love to share your hats with blog readers.
