A cowboy hat is considered the most important element of the iconic image of a cowboy. The rounded curved edge and flattened top made it the most famous item of Western clothing. Over the years, the hat constantly changed its form, adapting to the way of life of Dallas residents. Read more on dallaska.
For contemporaries, a cowboy hat is only a part of fashion and a festive image. They wear them at festivals, weddings and parties. In everyday life, ordinary headgear prevails, such as caps.
The history of the cowboy hat
It is believed that the first hat that looked like a cowboy was designed in 1849 by London hatters Thomas and William Bowler. They received an order in which the guards approached them and asked them to invent such a headgear that would reliably protect their heads from branches while riding.
By 1870, the fashion for the so-called ‘10-gallon hat’ had reached Texas cowboys. However, there are very different testimonies as to why they were called that way. In Dallas, there are several fairly plausible assumptions about this. Someone says that the headgear was called ‘10-gallon’ because it can hold exactly that amount of liquid. Others claim that the name of the hat was invented by cattle drivers and ranchers in Texas. They often crossed paths with Mexicans, who found something similar between their headdresses, on which 10 braided bandages could be hung. They were called halons in Spanish.
There is also a linguistic theory according to which the expression ‘tan galán’, which means really beautiful, was widespread in Spain. Perhaps, such words could often be heard addressed to Dallas cowboys, who did not quite understand their meaning and attributed them as a compliment to their headgear.
By 1920, the cowboy hat wasn’t the most popular headwear among Dallas residents. More often you could meet a man with a top hat or a cauldron on his head. The situation changed drastically after Hollywood silent film actors (Tom Meeks, Tim McCoy and others) began to popularize the cowboy hat in westerns. For several years, not a single Texas man could be seen in the movies without this headdress. It was worn by cowboys, sheriffs, government officials, etc.
The manufacture and care of the hats
The cowboy hat was specially designed to protect its wearer from the sun’s rays and heavy rain. It turned out to be indispensable during the long cattle drive. The high main part provided additional circulation and the sloping edge protected from bad weather.
Taking into account the peculiarities of lifestyle and climate, each cowboy chose the most comfortable hat for himself. Mostly they differed in the materials from which they were made. As for Dallas residents, the following hats were the most popular among them:
- Straw. They were considered an integral part of every cowboy in the summer. They were made from natural materials, such as palm leaves or raffia. Straw hats ensured air circulation and kept cool
- Leather cowboy hats were the epitome of beauty, durability and functionality. Every headdress was decorated. They emphasized style, honored culture and protected from heat and rain
- Felt was an ideal option during the cold season. The hat provided warmth and protected the head. In addition, it became waterproof later. These hats were made from beaver or rabbit felt.
Hats have served Dallas residents for a very long time. This is due to the fact that men provided them with proper and high-quality care depending on the material. Felt hats were kept in a dry place and regularly dusted with a soft-bristled brush. They must also be kept as far away from sunlight as possible. Straw hats were cleaned with a damp cloth soaked in mild soap beforehand. To prevent the hat from losing its shape, try not to get it wet and store it in a place with good air circulation.
Dallasites paid the most attention to the care of leather cowboy hats. They regularly wiped them and cleaned them from stains. It was the leather headdress that was the owner’s reputation. It served not only as protection but also as a symbol of stability and skill.
Rules of behavior with your own and other people’s cowboy hat
It is considered a stereotype to think that the townspeople walk around in cowboy hats in modern Dallas. They really do not forget about their traditional clothes and also fondly remember the history of their native land. However, wearing hats all the time is not considered necessary. Still, having at least one at home is the golden rule for all Texans. Some get them from grandparents or from other relatives. Most men buy cowboy hats in modern stores, especially since their prices are quite affordable.
There are certain rules regarding other people’s cowboy hats in Dallas. No matter what their origin is, people should respect each other’s element of traditional clothing.
- It is forbidden to touch someone else’s hat without permission. Although Dallasites are known as very sincere and open people, their hats have a hands off rule. If someone else’s hat aroused your curiosity and you would like to take a closer look at it, you must first ask. Most will be happy to show and give their headgear
- Take off your hat indoors. In Dallas, it is illegal to wear a cowboy hat indoors, let alone in public. This rule applies to both men and women. The exception is only nightclubs where themed parties are held
- Take off your hat during formal events. One must not forget to remove the headdress during the passing of the flag, the playing of the national anthem, prayers, etc. This should also be remembered at funerals and weddings. Sometimes, a cowboy hat is made part of the dress code during a holiday on the occasion of a marriage, so this is also considered an exception.
- Be sure to remove the hat by the top and not by the brim.
- Always tip your hat to the lady.
For what holidays do Dallasites wear cowboy hats?
As mentioned above, Dallasites do not wear cowboy hats every day, but only when necessary. They usually do this on holidays. The most important of them is the Texas Fair. This is not surprising, because even a symbol of the entire holiday Big Tex has its own cowboy hat. In addition, a real cowboy rodeo can be held during the event. Not only professional riders can take part in it but also everyone who wants to.
Traditional Dallas headdresses are often worn at weddings. On the eve of the special day, brides do a photoshoot, during which they wear cowboy boots and hats. They do not neglect the history of their ancestors even during the ceremony. The bride can even go to the altar wearing a hat, where her beloved is already waiting for her dressed in the same way. Guests can join the couple and also buy an interesting traditional headdress in advance.
Young people like to wear cowboy hats. Dallas nightclubs often host themed cowboy parties, where stylish hats are handed out to all guests.