1920s Cloche Hat History
The cloche, from the French word for bell, became fashionable in the early 1920s and stayed popular into the early 1930s. It was designed to fit snugly over short, bobbed hair, with a brim that dipped low over the eyes. Women decorated cloches with ribbons, bows, brooches and appliqué, often in contrasting colors, so the hat became a way to show personality.
Today a cloche hat is a stylish choice for autumn and winter, for vintage weddings and for 1920s-themed daytime events such as garden parties and races.
Wool Felt Cloche Hat and Felt Cloche Hat Care
Felt cloches hold their shape best and keep you warm in cool weather. Many suppliers mention wool without confirming the blend, so we describe these hats as wool-blend or felt. Brush the felt gently with a soft brush, avoid soaking it, and store the hat on a rounded object or stuffed with tissue so the crown keeps its bell shape.
Women's Hats Cloche: How to Wear One
Pull the cloche down so it sits low on the forehead and covers the tops of the ears; the brim should frame your eyes. Short hair, waves or a low bun suit the shape best. With long hair, sweep it into a low chignon at the nape so the hat sits smoothly.
Measure your head just above the eyebrows and around the back, where the hat will sit, and compare with the size given on the product page. A cloche should feel snug but not tight; if it is slightly loose, a thin ribbon or tissue inside the band helps it hold.
A black cloche is the most versatile: it goes with camel, gray and black coats, and with evening outfits for a 1920s party. A contrasting bow or ribbon adds a touch of color.
For a period-correct outfit, combine a cloche with a drop-waist dress, a long coat with a fur-look collar, gloves and T-strap shoes. For everyday wear, a cloche goes with a trench coat, a knit sweater and jeans for a soft vintage note.
Winter Cloche Hat and Straw Cloche Hat
Felt and wool-blend cloches suit autumn and winter, sometimes with a fleece lining or fluffy trim for warmth. In summer, straw cloches give shade and a light, breathable feel for outdoor weddings and garden parties.
A cloche also makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves vintage style, since the shape flatters most faces and needs no special styling skills.
1930s Cloche Hat Differences
By the early 1930s, the cloche softened: brims widened, crowns became shallower and hats were often tilted to one side. If you want the strict 1920s look, choose a deep crown that sits low over the forehead.
Cloche Hats FAQ
What is a cloche hat?
A cloche is a close-fitting, bell-shaped women's hat that became popular in the 1920s.
How should a cloche hat fit?
Snugly, sitting low on the forehead and covering the tops of the ears.
Can I wear a cloche with long hair?
Yes. Gather long hair into a low bun at the nape so the hat sits smoothly.
Are your cloche hats wool?
Some are felt or a wool blend; we describe the material as the supplier states it, without claiming pure wool.
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