Wednesday, December 12, 2018

Hats and Feathers

We have 2 hats today! 

 In the 1800s it was the fashion to use feathers on hats, often, the more the merrier.  And rare birds were a real prize for a hat.  Eventually some people started noticing the bird population was really suffering and cutting the story short, laws were passed, bird watching became popular and feathers on hats were considered in bad taste.

The first hat has a lesson.  It is covered with peacock feathers completely around the rim.  The hat seems to be from the 1890s, possibly.  Clara loved peacocks and had peacocks as pets so there may be a connection there, although we do not have evidence that the hat was Clara's  It seems like a home-made hat because there is no lining.




The 2nd hat is all black with cording covered with silk and has little dangles hanging from each corded decoration.  the top has a netting with spangles attached.  The spangles are in the shape of leaves. There is a large bow in the back with a group of spangles flowing down.  I haven't pinned down a date yet.

Front and side

Back bow and spangles

The cutest tangles!  The cording is supposed to be completely covered with black thread but a lot is wearing away.

The lining is a very sheer fabric and the buckram can be seen through it.

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