Haversack
One Too Many
- Messages
- 1,194
- Location
- Clipperton Island
Hello the Lounge. I've been reading the public forums here, (lurking if you will), for more than a better part of a year now, and I've decided that I had better get off the stick and subscribe. What has proven the final motivation is my decision to join the 20th Century and get a fedora. Frankly, I could use some advice on the subject.
Now I am no stranger to the wearing of caps and hats. I’ve been wearing flat caps since I was about nine years old when my grandfather took me to England to visit that side of the family. And I went through a few straw Stetsons over the years while camping and fishing. Also several years in the Army solidly pavloved the concept of feeling naked if I was outside without a hat. The past few years I’ve taken to wearing one of a couple of 19th Century-style hats I’ve had made for me by the Clearwater Hat Company, (a low-crowned derby and a low, flat-crown broad-brim similar to General Vallejo’s cordobes.). Since last year, (when the weather permits), I’ve worn a plantation straw that Art made.
What has prompted my fedora decision is a combination of reading this site with all of its bonhomie, (and the knowledge and joy people express here on matters sartorial and historical), along with the gob-smacking artistry and craftsmanship embodied in Art’s hats. Art’s latest creation, (the Manhattan), is what pushed me over the edge.
Now, I am pretty much a novice when it comes to the Fedora and all of the various permutations. Since reading here, I’ve learned a bit about C-crowns, center-dents, straight vs. taper crowns, stingy brims vs. wide, etc. Problem I’m having is putting it all together. I’m not looking to recreate a specific hat or era. (although my preferences lean pre-1950). First and foremost, this is a hat which will likely be worn every day on my walking commute. This is about a mile and a half each way and can easily include cold, wet fog and ninety-five degree sunshine on the same day. Similarly, I might be wearing a suit, sport coat, jacket, or vest, weather, professional needs, and personal vanity requiring. My preference is for a fairly broad brim as the sun is not my friend, (blond). Also, I’ve gathered that narrow brims are to be avoided if one is tall. (I’m 6’4") What I would like to know is if there are other factors I should consider?
Now that I am subscribed, I’ll likely post on other topics now and then. I’ve very much enjoyed reading you all, and I’d like to join the conversation if you’ll allow.
Haversack
Now I am no stranger to the wearing of caps and hats. I’ve been wearing flat caps since I was about nine years old when my grandfather took me to England to visit that side of the family. And I went through a few straw Stetsons over the years while camping and fishing. Also several years in the Army solidly pavloved the concept of feeling naked if I was outside without a hat. The past few years I’ve taken to wearing one of a couple of 19th Century-style hats I’ve had made for me by the Clearwater Hat Company, (a low-crowned derby and a low, flat-crown broad-brim similar to General Vallejo’s cordobes.). Since last year, (when the weather permits), I’ve worn a plantation straw that Art made.
What has prompted my fedora decision is a combination of reading this site with all of its bonhomie, (and the knowledge and joy people express here on matters sartorial and historical), along with the gob-smacking artistry and craftsmanship embodied in Art’s hats. Art’s latest creation, (the Manhattan), is what pushed me over the edge.
Now, I am pretty much a novice when it comes to the Fedora and all of the various permutations. Since reading here, I’ve learned a bit about C-crowns, center-dents, straight vs. taper crowns, stingy brims vs. wide, etc. Problem I’m having is putting it all together. I’m not looking to recreate a specific hat or era. (although my preferences lean pre-1950). First and foremost, this is a hat which will likely be worn every day on my walking commute. This is about a mile and a half each way and can easily include cold, wet fog and ninety-five degree sunshine on the same day. Similarly, I might be wearing a suit, sport coat, jacket, or vest, weather, professional needs, and personal vanity requiring. My preference is for a fairly broad brim as the sun is not my friend, (blond). Also, I’ve gathered that narrow brims are to be avoided if one is tall. (I’m 6’4") What I would like to know is if there are other factors I should consider?
Now that I am subscribed, I’ll likely post on other topics now and then. I’ve very much enjoyed reading you all, and I’d like to join the conversation if you’ll allow.
Haversack
