OUTSTANDING 1930s BROWN FELT HALO WIDE BRIM HAT WITH PLEATED GROSGRAIN EDGING

This outstanding very large 'halo' wide brim hat from the 1930s consists of a low crown surrounded by a wide brim that stands up so as to create a 'halo' effect when wearing. The crown features a brown grosgrain band that pierces the brim and ends in a bow which visible from the front.The brim is finished in matching pleated brown grosgrain edging.A halo hat (sometimes halo brim hat) is a millinery design in which the headgear acts as a circular frame for the face, creating a halo effect. The design is said to date back to the late 19th century, when it was known as the aureole hat; this name is sometimes still used. The style reappeared in the 1930s, its open, off-the-face shape a welcome departure from the over-the-brow cloche shape that dominated millinery fashion in the 1920s. Two famous royal faces helped the style gain popularity- the Duchess of York appeared in one at a charity event in 1933 and Wallis Simpson famously wore a halo hat made by Parisienne milliner Caroline Reboux for her wedding to the Duke of Windsor in 1937.Imprinted on the felt inside the crown: MOHN BROTHERS BERKSHIRE 100% WOOL.This hat is in wonderful vintage condition and has been lovingly preserved among over 1300 vintage hats we have collected for 40+ years. NOTE: There is a very small moth bite on the brim, which does not detract from the beauty of this unique hat. Mannequin not for sale.