Evening toque

Designer West's American

1915

Not on view

All-black hats were common in the World War I period, and felt to be the most versatile and appropriate during a time of solemnity and sacrifice. Within this tenor, designers sought to overcome a feeling of austerity, and on this toque the refined use of feathers lends an elegant, rich and regal appearance. The upright brim trimmed at the edge with ostrich reinforces the crown-like feeling, and the single oversized trim in the form of a beaded buckle, typical of the first half of 1910s, augments the luxurious air. This hat was sold by a store on Livingston St in the fashionable shopping area of Brooklyn.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Title: Evening toque
Designer: West's (American, founded 1853)
Date: 1915
Culture: American
Medium: silk, feathers
Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mae Schenck, 1960
Object Number: 2009.300.1982
Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute

More Artwork

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Evening toque, West's American, silk, feathers, American — Evening toque
West's
ca. 1915

Mourning hat, West's American, silk, feathers, American — Mourning hat
West's
ca. 1888

"The Tarts", Elizabeth Hawes American, silk, American — "The Tarts"
Elizabeth Hawes
1937

"Butterfly", Charles James American, silk, synthetic, American — "Butterfly"
Charles James
1955

Evening dress, Charles James American, silk/rayon, silk, American — Evening dress
Charles James
1946

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