FABULOUS 1950's BLACK STIFF LACE PANCAKE HAT WITH OFF WHITE LACE EDGING

This is a most stunning example of the elegant millinery fashions of the extravagant 1950s'! This has is made of a stiff black, see-through lace with the appearance of straw. The small round crown is surrounded by a black grosgrain band that ends in a small streamer at one side. The wide brim is edged in an off white lace band. Underneath the crown there is a cap to hold the hat in place, which was typical of hats of this era.Throughout the 1950s, ladies wore hats daily as a part of their attire as was a pair of gloves. Post war 1940’s and 1950’s saw many women choosing not to wear hats on a regular basis. To preserve its market, the millinery industry set about creating variety and extravagance. They were now touted as the essential accessory to complete the ensemble. Alternatively, ‘pancake’, ‘mushroom’ or ‘cart wheel’ hats sat flat atop the head reviving turn of the century styles.There is no label, indicating it was a custom-made creation.This is an authentic piece of fashion history! This hat is in wonderful vintage condition & has been lovingly preserved among over 1300 vintage hats we have collected for 40+ years. Feathers, straw, flowers & veils are fragile, given their age. Mannequin not for sale.