What is a cloche hat?

The hat in question was popular on all continents, among rich and poor, a hundred years ago. The cloche hat has come back from obscurity these days and is a huge success. It is worth noting that in Russia such hats also found their admirers.

What is a cloche hat?

cloche hat with red coatUnder the fancy name “cloche” lies a woman’s hat shaped like a bell. For this reason, it got its name, because the word cloche means “bell” in French.

The creator of this hat is the trendsetter, a famous fashion designer of her time (who lived in 1837-1927) Caroline Rebo. This was a bold move, as massive hats were in fashion at the time.

The cloche fits tightly around the head, small brims can be worn straightened or rolled up. Since this style is very suitable for long and short straight hair, in the 20s of the last century the “Eton” hairstyle came into fashion - this is short-cut, smoothed hair.

The hat was wildly popular; fashion designers then created ateliers to develop new models and competed with each other. By 1930, the fashion for such a headdress had passed. This was due to the fact that the style of clothing had changed radically, new hairstyles had come into fashion, and this hat was not suitable for every type of face. This model maintained its dominance in fashion for about 20 years.

What materials are these hats made from?

During their popularity, the material for their manufacture was felt. Nowadays a variety of materials are used to produce headwear:

  • cloche hat with gray coatfelt;
  • leather;
  • felt (felt);
  • down (down);
  • textile;
  • straw.

Traditional versions of models are sewn from materials that hold their shape well. Hats of this type are made warm for the cold season, and light for summer to protect from the sun. Cloches are decorated in very different ways:

  • colored zigzag stitches;
  • miniature bouquets;
  • veil;
  • all kinds of ribbons, lacing, straps.

Please note: the decoration is located on one side only. Any other accessories are appropriate for such a hat: scarf, gloves, beads, bracelets.

What do they combine with?

looks with a cloche hatIn 1980, a number of fashion designers, including Patrick Kelly, again turned their attention to the “cloche hat”; in 2007–2013, couturiers returned to this interesting model.

It should be noted that This model is not suitable for everyone, quite the opposite. This hat suits slender ladies with small features. It suits sophisticated people who carefully select their wardrobe and prefer an extravagant style.

The cloche fits comfortably into vintage clothing styles. The hat can be worn with long, loose sundresses or pajama-style trousers; it can also be combined with a flared skirt.A long flowing scarf or, in a warm version, a fur boa is a good accessory.

Retro style goes well with this headdress - low-waisted dresses. In urban style, there is also a place for a cloche hat with a straight coat or a classic jacket. A hat would also be appropriate with a fluffy short fur coat. The only style that cannot be combined with a cloche is a sporty one.

The cloche can be worn pushed to the back of the head and the bangs straightened, or moved a little to the side, or it can be moved low over the eyes, then the emphasis in makeup should be on the bright color of the lips.

What scarf can I wear with it?

cloche hat with dressWith a knitted cloche, a snood scarf of the same texture and color as the hat would be an excellent choice. A regular knitted scarf of a not too voluminous style will also look good; a scarf in the form of a headscarf will also be an excellent addition to a hat.

If you prefer classic types of hats, then a stole is suitable for you. It is possible to use any long scarves, the main thing is that this accessory is an addition and does not distract attention.

Examples of looks with a cloche hat

This accessory looks good in any color scheme. The main thing is that it matches the overall style of clothing.

Sarah Jessica Parker wearing a cloche hatFor a classic style, colors such as black, dark blue, and all varieties of gray are suitable. Coffee color and beige shades will look fresh and modern. Hats in burgundy, emerald, and purple colors look luxurious and noble. A two-color hat looks interesting, with the brim and crown of different shades.

Let's look at a few looks with this headdress:

  1. High boots or over the knee boots, leggings and a straight-cut coat above the knees will create a complete look complete with a headdress.
  2. A long sundress, loose fit, ballet shoes and a straw hat with a bright ribbon will attract attention to you.
  3. Black patent leather shoes with heels, a classic suit: a skirt and a fitted jacket with a belt in muted tones, a black hat - a wonderful image of a business lady.
  4. A sheath dress, a small handbag with a long belt, high-heeled ankle boots and a cloche are a worthy cocktail option.
  5. The hat will look good with a raincoat, a classic coat, or a long fur coat. But still this accessory came to us from the distant past and should be worn with clothes close to that era.

You should not experiment with jeans, sheepskin coats, regular jackets, or down jackets. Despite the variety of models, this type of hat is not very popular among the people.

At different times, the cloche hat was worn by Marlene Dietrich, Greta Garbo, Marion Davis, Angelina Jolie, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Victoria Beckham. Take a closer look at these models. Perhaps it is precisely such an accessory as a cloche hat that is missing in your wardrobe.

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