20th Century Hats

An outrageous 60s Lia Livoli helmet hat in orange and plaid mohair! Medium size.

Another fab 50s conical shaped peach color straw hat with silk flowers and black velvet trim

40s black straw and sheer horsehair braid summer hat with back bank.

Rare and historical fashion artifact from the house of Paul Poiret and the personal wardrobe of Denise Boulet Poiret. Paul Poiret is known as one of the innovators of 20th Century Haute Couture in Paris. Poiret established his own house in 1903, and made his name with the controversial kimono coat.He designed flamboyant window displays and threw legendary parties to draw attention to his work; his instinct for marketing and branding was unmatched by any previous designer. Poiret's house expanded to encompass furniture, decor, and fragrance in addition to clothing. In 1911, he established the company Parfums de Rosine, named for his eldest daughter. Poiret's name was never linked to the company, but it was effectively the first fragrance ever launched by a designer. Denise Poiret was mother, model and muse to the fantastical larger than life figure who revolutionized Parisian fashion in the early parts of the 20th Century. This hat was part of Denise Poirets personal wardrobe and is an example of Poirets chic and restrained day wear. Denise Poiret became known for wearing these simple turban-like hats and head treatments throughout social Paris which brought increased notariety to her husband's work. Madeleine Panizon was initally employed as a designer for Martine (Poiret's decorative Art Branch) and ultimately became the milliner for the house of Poiret...

The Bes-Ben company of Chicago were known for their outrageous hats and boasted celebrities, socialites and artists as their clients. This hat was no exception to the rule at Bes-Be...