A flat cap is a rounded, soft-crowned hat with a short, stiff brim at the front. First appearing in Northern England in the 14th century, flat caps became embedded in British and Irish life after a 1571 law encouraged their wear among men of the working classes. By the late 19th and early 20th century, they were worn by everyone from labourers and farmers to gentlemen at leisure. Today, the flat cap retains its heritage charm while being embraced as a versatile style in both town and country.
Flat caps are crafted from a variety of fabrics, each suited to different seasons and occasions:
Wool & Tweed – Classic, durable, and insulating; ideal for cooler weather.
Linen & Cotton – Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable in spring and summer.
Corduroy & Moleskin – Soft fabrics with vintage appeal, adding subtle texture.
Leather & Suede – A more modern take, bringing structure and a touch of luxury.
The choice of material often defines when and how a flat cap is worn - from a breathable linen cap in summer to a rich tweed for autumn country walks.
Explore a few of our Flat Caps:
A supremely dapper collection of men’s flat caps to suit all styles and face-shapes. Choose from traditional tweed, cashmere, and cooling cotton flat caps.
To help you find the right flat cap and make the most of it, explore our in-depth guides:
From casual weekend dressing to refined city looks, learn how to style a flat cap with confidence. Explore outfit ideas, occasions to wear one, and whether a flat cap leans casual or formal.
Getting the fit right is essential. This guide explains how a flat cap should sit, how to choose a shape that flatters your face, and whether to size up or down.
Every fabric requires different care. Learn how to maintain tweed, wool, linen, or cotton caps - including what to avoid and whether machine washing is ever safe.
Keep your flat cap looking its best when travelling or storing it at home with practical folding, packing, and storage tips.
A step-by-step guide to measuring your head and choosing the right size, with answers on adjustability and whether flat caps are true to size.
Flat caps never go out of style - but they do evolve. Explore this year’s trends in fabrics, colours, and shapes to see how heritage design meets contemporary fashion.
Have a scroll and discover some of our other articles, from press coverage to style guides and informational pieces.
At Lock & Co. Hatters, we see racing season as an opportunity to embrace timeless elegance, where the right hat doesn’t just complete a look, it defines it.
As part of our 350th anniversary collection, we are proud to celebrate two of our most loved and iconic cap styles: The Gill Flat Cap and The Whitebridge Bakerboy Cap.
Join us on March 27th for wear a hat day and help make a difference. It's simple, fun and helps give hope to families affected by this devastating disease.
2026 will see Lock & Co. celebrating throughout the year, with very special events to attend, exclusive limited-edition men’s and women’s hats and caps launched each month - and even some extra-secret surprises!
Thank you, most kindly, for your custom, and we hope to see you in the shop or on our website soon. You are always most welcome.
Celebrate the season with timeless Christmas gifts from Lock & Co. Hatters. Explore our heritage inspired collection of hats, scarves, and accessories, crafted with care and designed to last.
Having joined the team only a few weeks ago, our milliner Isabel has already brought her remarkable embroidery expertise to life with a very special creation for Remembrance Day 2025.
To keep your Panama hat looking as stylish as the day you purchased it. We provide suggestions on how to take care of your Panama hat.
The right fit is essential for both comfort and style. A well-fitting flat cap should feel secure without being tight, sit correctly on your head, and complement your face shape.
