A Doff Of The Cap & A Sweep Of The Chimney

Low-brimmed hats like this Black John Bull Hat were very popular in the Victorian age of the 19th Century. They were especially popular with Chimney sweeps, who played a critical role in preventing the massive coal-soot chimney fires that could threaten to burn an entire city down. These were men with dirty faces who needed a hat to keep soot and ash out of their eyes. They were such popular professionals back in their day that they made a Black John Bull Hat like this one an icon, almost two centuries later.

A Steamy Accessory

19th Century haberdashery and fashion still live on to this day in the sci-fi genera known as Steampunk. This is a bold take on what the world would look like today and into tomorrow, had the elegant steam engineering of the 19th century prevailed over oil and nuclear power. It’s a rich and creative canvas that many cosplayers tap into to develop their own innovative steampunk costumes. Many choose a Black John Bull Hat like this one over a classic bowler. The hat is made from 100% polyester and molded felt. There is a grosgrain ribbon in the hat band with a tasteful bow on the right-hand side.