Evening toque

West's

1915 · silk, feathers · Costume Institute

All-black hats were common in the World War I period, and felt to be the most versatile and appropriate during a time of solemnity and sacrifice. Within this tenor, designers sought to overcome a feeling of austerity, and on this toque the refined use of feathers lends an elegant, rich and regal appearance. The upright brim trimmed at the edge with ostrich reinforces the crown-like feeling, and the single oversized trim in the form of a beaded buckle, typical of the first half of 1910s, augments the luxurious air. This hat was sold by a store on Livingston St in the fashionable shopping area of Brooklyn.

Artist

West's

Date

1915

Medium

silk, feathers

Culture

American

Department

Costume Institute

Credit line

Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of the Brooklyn Museum, 2009; Gift of Mae Schenck, 1960