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Derby

Designer John David American
Designer The Mallory Hat Company American
ca. 1940
Not on view
A classic style of men's headwear in the 20th century, the bowler first came into fashion in the 1850s. Like the top hat, the bowler had working-class origins. Layers of shellac created a helmet-like hat for rural gamekeepers and the close fit ensured it would not blow off in windy conditions. A mid-19th century prototype of the style was made by Thomas and William Bowler, hat makers in Southwark, England and the widespread success of their design made their family name synonymous with the style. The bowler is also known as a "derby" based on its association with horseracing in England.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Derby
  • Designer: John David
  • Designer: The Mallory Hat Company
  • Date: ca. 1940
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: wool, silk
  • Credit Line: Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Evelyn Metzger, 1992
  • Object Number: 2009.300.2926
  • Curatorial Department: The Costume Institute

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