Cavalier hat

A cavalier hat is a variety of wide-brimmed hat which was popular in 17th-century Europe.^[1] These hats were often made from felt, and usually trimmed with an ostrich plume. They were frequently cocked up^[1] or had one side of the brim pinned to the side of the crown of the hat (similar to the slouch hat) which was then decorated with feathers. Cavalier hats derived their name from supporters of Charles I of England during the English Civil War, known as Cavaliers, who were noted for wearing extravagant clothing. It was a common hat style throughout Europe during the 17th century, until it was later replaced in fashion by the tricorne.

Detail of Banquet of the officers of the Calivermen Civic Guard, Haarlem, 1627, by Frans Hals showing Dutch schutterij officers wearing cavalier hats.

See also

• List of hats and headgear

References

1. Cunnington, C. Willett; Cunnington, Phillis (1972). Handbook of English Costume in the Seventeenth Century (3rd ed.). London: Faber and Faber. pp. 24, 65–69.