Yep I sure do understand about things being original on some super nice vintage hats. I think when it comes to having something made, however, to then dibble dabble with different colors and textures of ribbons can actually make a hat so one of a kind. I also think (we at times maybe do not think of this but I know some do here) at a point in time when we are mere dust to the wind, maybe a hundred or so years down the road...can you imagine even some of these vintage hats we love so much still being worn by others that love the look like we do? Imagine someone even finding some of our Customs we have had made!?! I can see someone opening a box, and pulling out a hat made by some of our own resident Custom Hatters...and having that wide ear to ear smile just like we do when we find a gem like the Flagship hat you have been lucky enough to grab up! I do not see why this would not be the case! For now, we here in our home do treasure every single fedora and cap! How blessed are we to own the fedora hats we do! A few customs from sources closer to home and now from what the charming Esther has made...and waiting for more to show up at the door.Thanks Luv! I may just have to look for one of those boxes so I can keep it protected.
I think that the main issue with the Petersham vs. a straight edged grosgrain is just a matter of traditional use on women's vs. men's hats. I like a straight edge better but it's a very minor issue. I'm not going to mess with original equipment on a hat this nice if I don't need to.
My Husband even when his health/medical condition could just not get much worse, continues to have such a wonderful spirit each day and no loss of a sense of humor! He says, it is the hats! The hats for us adults is the older version of Santa...you as a child have to wait for Santa and that wait has you in bed with one eye open just waiting for Santa to slide down the chimney and bring you all your desired goodies...but now...we are adults...we wait around with both eyes open and wait...for that person wearing a uniform to bring us all the goodies we desire...the next hat find! How very true!