| Among different kinds of headgear, hats are a relatively modern phenomenon. It is really very simple - come hail or high water, blasting heat or bitter cold, hats protect your head, and so, protect YOU. Hats really come in different shapes and sizes - they always did, actually - and they have very different uses as well. Hats have been used as fashion statements, for the purpose of decoration and for the purpose of protection, and sometimes, even to indicate what 'class' the wearer belonged to. Perhaps more than any other accessory, hats are used for a large variety of purposes. Again, even the availability of hats is different. Some are mass-produced - cheap and readily available in the market. However, for special occasions and ceremonies, hats might be specially made. These are the 'custom-made' hats. They are made according to the demands of the customer. Needless to say, the more exclusive your hat, the lighter your pocket. The Kentucky Derby, for example, is one of the most celebrated occasions for the wearing of custom-made hats. Particularly, for women, the Derby would serve as the ideal event for flashing those flamboyant and glamorous pieces of headgear. High society ladies try and outdo each other in wearing extraordinary hats. All are specially made, sometimes for this very occasion. The price range of these hats - thousands of dollars. In terms of brands, all hats manufactured by the Stetson Company can actually be called a Stetson. For most people, however, it means only one kind of hat - the cowboy hat. From Hollywood films and other popular culture media, a Stetson has come to occupy a special position - it is the classic cowboy hat. Black leather hats and cowboy hats are those which are wide-brimmed and have raised, high crowns. Remember John Ford, or even Clint Eastwood ? They are made from three different materials primarily - fur, straw and sometimes, wool. Straw hats are the cheapest to buy; they are also the best hats to wear when the weather is very hot. They also, however, have greater wear and tear, becoming brittle more easily. If wants to wear one hat for a long time, then fur hats, made from beaver fur, or even rabbit fur, are the best buys. Although they are more expensive, their durability makes them affordable. And, if you thought that only wearing a leather cowboy hat in any way would make you a cowboy, be warned! In fact, there are numerous rules that decide what a proper cowboy should and should not wear. First, no cowboy ever owns, or wears, one hat for all occasions. Choice of hats varies according to function and fashion. Light colored hats, usually made of straw, are ideal for summer. For one, when there is no fear of rain, they look good. Also, straw allows air to pass, which is crucial in hot weather. Also, light colors mean little heat is absorbed. Following the same logic, only in reverse, dark-colored, felt hats, storing heat and keeping the head warm, are meant for use in winter. |
| Author: Penelope Morgan |
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Author Bio:
Penelope Morgan is a renowned writer. Penelope likes to compose articles about this field. |
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