The top hat had its heyday in the late 1800 and early 1900's. A top hat is usually worn with a formal suit, generally one which has long, elegant tails.
A top hat is a tall hat that was popular among men in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The look is no longer popular as a matter of standard style, but it is worn as a fashion statement or as a part of a very particular evening dress or as a costume.
Prince Albert wore the style of hat in 1850, which is the start of its popularity. The beaver hat was popular before the top hat and then fell sharply in popularity once the top hat began to be worn by men. The hats were first made with beaver fur felt and then they were made with silk. A very popular version of the hat was worn by Abraham Lincoln. This version was called the stovepipe hat.
The hat really became all the rage in the 19th century when many, many men wore them. They were popular in England, France, America and other countries. By the end the 19th century the hat became less popular. Hats such as the bowler and the fedora grew in popularity instead. They were less fancy and were easier to make. By the end of Word War 1, only the upper classes could be seen in a top hat or those who were on special occasions.
Other American presidents besides Abraham Lincoln wore the style of hat. John F. Kennedy way the last president to wear the hat at the inauguration ceremony. No other presidents have worn it since, especially since the mode of dress for the inauguration is not as fancy as it used to be.
Some famous people who have worn a top hat as their personal style have included Tom Petty, W C Fields, Jimi Hendrix, Fred Astaire and Slash. The style of hat will always be a symbol of character and elegance.
