Top Hats were the mainstay of a Victorian gentleman's wardrobe - the tall, elegant style conveyed wealth and respectability.
Though worn in earlier decades, the hat did not gain real popularity until Beau Brummel decreed it as fashion for proper gentlemen in the early 1800s. Its popularity was cemented by Prince Albert in 1850 and it reigned supreme throughout the Victorian era.
Top hats were originally made of beaver felt, which made them prohibitively expensive. However, as the century wore on, the hat became available in silk and wool felt, making them affordable for gentleman of all means. Though it fell out of favor for daily wear, the Topper is still a symbol of capitalism and wealth.
We offer a full line of men's period clothing and hat styles which are suitable for movie and TV production, theatrical, living history and performing arts requirements, and are also perfect for vintage weddings. We invite you to browse our line, and please contact us if you have any questions!
