THE GLAMOROUS
    HISTORY OF CLOCHE HATS: From the Roaring Twenties to Today

    Cloche hats have a rich and glamorous history dating back to the 1920s. These hats were all the rage in the Roaring Twenties and a popular accessory for women who wanted to look stylish and chic. The cloche hat is a close-fitting, bell-shaped hat that typically covers the ears and forehead. It is designed to fit snugly on the head and is often worn tilted at an angle to one side. The popularity of cloche hats began to wane in the 1930s, but they never went entirely out of fashion. They experienced a revival in the 1960s and 1970s and are still a popular accessory today.

    There are many styles of cloche hats, from the classic bell-shaped design to more modern variations incorporating different materials and embellishments. One of the reasons why cloche hats have endured for so long is their timeless elegance. They are versatile enough to be worn with a variety of outfits, and you can wear them dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They also exude a certain air of mystery and sophistication that is hard to resist. Whether you opt for a vintage-inspired design or a more contemporary take on this classic style, you are sure to turn heads and make a statement whenever you wear a cloche.

    “The Vita Cloche is a little slice of vintage style heaven. The lipstick red sinamay cloche is adorned with a swirling pedal straw trimming, giving a playful modern edge to this traditional shape. The Vita looks equally great with a monochrome suit or with a full skirt dress”.

    Awon Golding.

    There are many styles of cloche hats, from the classic bell-shaped design to more modern variations incorporating different materials and embellishments. One of the reasons why cloche hats have endured for so long is their timeless elegance. They are versatile enough to be worn with a variety of outfits, and you can wear them dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They also exude a certain air of mystery and sophistication that is hard to resist. Whether you opt for a vintage-inspired design or a more contemporary take on this classic style, you are sure to turn heads and make a statement whenever you wear a cloche.

    3 Ways to Style
    Your Cloche Hat for a Chic and Classic Look

    Our top pick from our cloche collection includes two statement pieces.

    The Dolores is available as part of Lock Couture by Awon Golding and is fabric cloche with a flattering upturned brim that frames the face beautifully. It is the perfect casual winter hat that’s guaranteed to be equal parts cozy and stylish.

    The Peggy Escorial wool cloche is a strikingly stylish cloche with a wide brim and has the feel and look of a contemporary classic. This hat is a perfect accompaniment to your autumn/winter wardrobe.

    SIMILAR ARTICLES

    Have a scroll and discover some of our other articles, from press coverage to style guides and informational pieces.

    View all

    • What is a Fedora Hat?

      The fedora has long been a symbol of timeless elegance, structured yet soft, refined yet versatile. At Lock & Co., we have shaped the evolution of this iconic silhouette for generations, bringing modern craftsmanship to a classic form.

    • How Should a Fedora Hat Fit?

      At Lock & Co., a well-fitting fedora should feel like a natural extension of your personal style, secure yet comfortable, structured yet wearable. It should sit neatly on the head, complementing your silhouette without ever feeling forced.

    • How to Wear and Style a Fedora?

      A fedora is more than just a hat, it’s a statement of effortless style and quiet sophistication. At Lock & Co., our fedoras are designed to complement the individual, with thoughtful silhouettes, luxurious materials and subtle, timeless details.

    • How to Care for and Clean a Fedora Hat?

      A Lock & Co. fedora is built to last, with proper care, it can serve for decades. Whether crafted from fine wool felt, luxurious fur felt, or lightweight straw, each hat benefits from thoughtful maintenance and gentle cleaning.

    • How to Fold a Fedora Hat

      A Lock & Co. fedora is made to travel, whether it's across town or across continents. With proper care and packing, your hat can arrive at your destination in pristine condition. Below, we share expert advice on storing, folding (where appropriate), and travelling with your fedora.

    • Trending Fedora Hat Styles in 2025

      From Savile Row to city streets, the fedora remains a cornerstone of modern dressing. At Lock & Co., we continue to see this timeless hat evolve - with subtle but powerful updates in material, tone and shape. Explore the defining fedora trends of 2025.

    • How to Measure for a Fedora
    • Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence: Tina’s Anniversary at Lock & Co.

      Today, we proudly raise our hats in honour of a truly extraordinary milestone – Tina’s 20th anniversary as our cherished Millinery Manager at Lock & Co. Hatters.

    • How to Wear and Style a Top Hat?

      A top hat is more than a finishing touch, it defines the entire ensemble. Whether for Ascot, a wedding, or a black-tie affair, understanding how to wear and style your top hat is essential to carrying it with confidence and poise.