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First worn in the eighteenth century, the top hat was originally a ubiquitous headpiece. Today, this timeless silhouette is a mark of distinguishment and discernment synonymous with formal occasions such as Royal Ascot, garden parties, investitures, and weddings, where they are considered de rigueur.
Originally made of felt, this was replaced in the 1850s by a unique fabric known as 'silk plush' which gave the top hat its characteristic sheen. The last factory to produce silk plush ended production in the late 1960s, so there are only a limited number of silk top hats left in the world today. Contemporary top hats are again made from a felt material.
Lock & Co. supplies black and grey felt top hats and renovated vintage silk top hats. For formal occasions, black top hats are traditionally worn with a black morning coat, while grey top hats generally partner with a grey morning suit.
The 'conformateur' head measuring device is often used at Lock & Co. to determine the correct size and shape of a hat. There are records of the Emperor of Japan using this device to obtain a suitably fitted top hat.
1. Clean off any dust by very gently brushing with a pure bristle hat brush.
In the case of grey felt top hats, buff carefully with crushed clean white tissue paper.
2. Renovate and service regularly.
Lock & Co. offers a renovation service, an estimate will be given upon presentation of your hat.
3. Store in a top hat box.
Only our black Silk and Westminster top hats have a directional nap which is designed to be polished.
Smooth the nap lightly in an anti-clockwise direction using a soft bristle hat brush, then use a velvet pad to bring up the lustre of the nap.
Silk top hats when polished have a deep glossy sheen similar to that found on vintage vinyl records.
Have a scroll and discover some of our other articles, from press coverage to style guides and informational pieces.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
