flat caps (headgear)
Hierarchy classification:
Alternative term/s
- cabbie hat
- cap, flat
- caps, flat
- cloth cap
- driving cap
- flat cap
- flat-caps
- flatcap
- flatcaps
- golf cap
- Windsor cap
Anotations
Scope note:
Round, wedge-shaped caps with low, flat, soft crowns, with a short visor in the front. These are usually made of wool or tweed, but can be found in a variety of fabrics, and slight variations in styling. These are thought to originate in 15th century Northern England, though versions appear elsewhere in Europe, with variations in shape. They were originally worn and were associated with working class men, and became popular in the United States from the 19th century, introduced by immigrants from Ireland and England. They have gone in and out of fashion to the present day, with both men and women in many social contexts. Usage of the term has been extended to include caps of various shapes and styles appearing in portraiture, but should be reserved for the modern style and its obvious historical antecedents.