First worn in the eighteenth century, the top hat was originally a ubiquitous headpiece. Today, this timeless silhouette is a mark of distinguishment and discernment synonymous with formal occasions such as Royal Ascot, garden parties, investitures, and weddings, where they are considered de rigor.
Originally made of felt, this was replaced in the 1850s by a unique fabric known as 'silk plush' which gave the top hat its characteristic sheen. The last factory to produce silk plush ended production in the late 1960s, so there are only a limited number of silk top hats left in the world today. Contemporary top hats are again made from a felt material.
Lock & Co. supplies black and grey felt top hats and renovated vintage silk top hats. For formal occasions, black top hats are traditionally worn with a black morning coat, while grey top hats generally partner with a grey morning suit.
The 'conformateur' head measuring device is often used at Lock & Co. to determine the correct size and shape of a hat. There are records of the Emperor of Japan using this device to obtain a suitably fitted top hat.
1. Clean off any dust by very gently brushing with a pure bristle hat brush.
In the case of grey felt top hats, buff carefully with crushed clean white tissue paper.
2. Renovate and service regularly.
Lock & Co. offers a renovation service, an estimate will be given upon presentation of your hat.
3. Store in a top hat box.
Only our black Silk and Westminster top hats have a directional nap which is designed to be polished.
Smooth the nap lightly in an anti-clockwise direction using a soft bristle hat brush, then use a velvet pad to bring up the lustre of the nap.
Silk top hats when polished have a deep glossy sheen similar to that found on vintage vinyl records.
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Discover the secret to looking effortlessly stylish - Use this simple guide from Lock & Co. designed to help you find the ideal hat that suits you best.
