FALL HAT MONTH

Fall is here, and it’s getting colder, so it’s time to break out the headgear. It’s Fall Hat Month! During Fall Hat Month, switch out of the cool-weather head protection and into stylish felt and fabric styles.

Hats were probably one of the first items of clothing found among primitive humankind. In ancient times, hats were considered a symbol of rank and status. Sculptures of Egypt, drawings of ancient China, and coins of early Greece and Rome depicted prominent individuals wearing hats, which was more than likely an indication of where they were on the hierarchy.

By the seventeenth century, hats had become a worldly attire. Interestingly, hats were available in the new world, but supplies like beaver were exported to Europe due to popularity. Strangely, wearing a straw hat after September 15 in 1920 America would get you mugged.

Hats have played an impressive role in human history. Presumably, U.S. President William Henry Harrison died shortly after his inaugural address because he refused to wear a cap on that cold, nasty day. A month later he was dead of pneumonia. Though it’s inaccurate hats prevent you from losing most of your body heat through your head, they are still a good idea to wear in cold or stormy weather. It never hurts to have an extra layer of protection during the winter months!

NATIONAL FALL HAT MONTH HISTORY

Hats have been enjoyed since the beginning of time, even making their way into songs. Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Gene Vincent (“Be Bop A-Lula”) named his backup band the “Blue Caps” after the blue flat caps President Dwight Eisenhower wore while golfing. The most notably known hat is referred to as “Newsboy caps,” which has enjoyed a resurgence in the U.S. and Europe. This hat style is now popular for both men and women. Avid hat wearers call them “cabbie hats,” or more formally, “flat caps.”

Headwear Information Bureau originally sponsored Fall Hat Month reminding the public that as the seasons change, felt and fabric hats better protect our heads for the weather. They also fit the styles for the season.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFallHatMonth

Finding that special hat might require some help from friends. A day of shopping might be necessary to honor National Fall Hat Day.

Use #NationalFallHatMonth in social media correspondence.

NATIONAL TWEED DAY

On April 3rd each year, National Tweed Day focuses on all things tweed.  This day has a couple of approaches to celebrating the day, so you decide which one you believe is the source of National Tweed Day.

Some people think the observance celebrates the senator-turned-crook William “Boss” Tweed.  Tweed was born on April 3, 1823. He was the wealthiest and most powerful politician of his time. While being considered the “poster boy” for political corruption, Tweed is still known by many as one of the most notorious politicians in American history.  He died in 1878, in jail, after being caught with millions of dollars of stolen public money.

Others believe that National Tweed Day celebrates the fabric. Originally produced in Scotland, the durable textile was initially handwoven. While the rough, woolen cloth is sturdy, it is also known for being lightweight. The traditionally earthy colors blend well with the Scottish landscape, too. Different families of tweed fall into various categories and styles. The estate the tweet represents, the sheep from which the fabric is woven and the patter all determine the particular kind of tweed it becomes. Famous characters who wore tweed include Sherlock Holmes, James Bond and Professor Henry Jones (aka Indiana Jones).

Combining the Tweeds

Several actors have portrayed Boss Tweed in film, too. You may recognize Jim Broadbent for his portrayal of Tweed in Gangs of New York. The actor’s wardrobe may also contain a few pieces of tweed, too. One of his more notable tweed-wearing characters was Professor Horace Slughorn in the Harry Potter films.

While Vincent Price may be more well-known for other sinister characters, he also portrayed the notorious politician the musical Up in Central Park. The woolen textile didn’t make much of a stage presence, though. However, Price also voiced Professor Ratigan in the animated film The Great Mouse Detective. Based on the evil nemesis, Moriarity, from the Sherlock Holmes stories, we circle back to all things tweed.  

Boss Tweed shows up on screen two other times. The actors who portrayed him were Philip Bosco and Edward Andrews. Neither the film (Liberty) or the television series (The Great Adventure) are available for viewing. 

More to explore….

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalTweedDay

Wear a tweed hat, vest or suit. While wearing your tweed, learn more about William “Boss” Tweed. Discover more about his impact on New York. Watch one of the movies mentioned above.

Read a book about textile or about Boss Tweed. May we suggest, Boss Tweed’s New York by Seymour J. Mandelbaum?

Use #NationalTweedDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL EARMUFF DAY

National Earmuff Day on March 13th recognizes the creation of the protection that keeps our ears warm. The annual celebration highlights the history of the fun and innovative invention each year.

If you live in a cold climate like Chester Greenwood did, and had large, protruding ears, like Chester Greenwood did, you might be thankful for his invention. National Earmuff Day honors the man who found a better way to keep our ears warm all winter long.

After a day of ice skating in the cold, 15-year-old Chester came up with an idea to keep his big ears warm. Partnering with his grandmother who sewed tufts of fur between loops of wire, Chester soon had a working model.

Farmington, Maine is now the “Earmuff Capital of the World”

On March 13, 1877, he was awarded a patent for his new creation. It was one of many would earn. Greenwood was a prolific inventor, but the invention he is most known for is the earmuff.

For almost 60 years, Greenwood manufactured these ear protectors, which provided jobs for the people in the Farmington, Maine area.

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NATIONAL EARMUFF DAY HISTORY

The origin of this day honors Chester Greenwood. However, our research remains somewhat muffled on the creator of the day. 

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalEarmuffDay

Wear your favorite earmuffs and pick up a new pair. Give a pair to a friend or family member as a gift. Or, donate several to a shelter near you. Even with spring approaching, earmuffs will still come in handy. Be sure to use #NationalEarmuffDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL DRESS DAY

On March 6th, observe National Dress Day by reflecting on memorable events when we recall dearest memories by what we were wearing.

Dresses have been worn for hundreds of years. Today, they come in a variety of shapes and designs. From long, mini, fit, and flare to the ball gown and A-line, there are many ways to celebrate. Throughout the years, dress designs have changed drastically! However, they still provide a distinctive look and one-of-a-kind fit adding a level of poise and confidence to any event.

On our most important days, we seek out the perfect dress made for the occasion. Whether it is prom, an interview, a first date, or a big wedding day, National Dress Day will give us all a reason to relive some of our dearest memories. We invite you to celebrate National Dress Day with us on March 6th.

NATIONAL DRESS DAY HISTORY

ASHLEYlauren founded National Dress Day to honor all of the ways dresses help us celebrate the significant moments of our lives.

About ASHLEYlauren
Since the launch of ASHLEYlauren in 2011, fashion designer, businesswoman, and founder of TEAMfabulous™, Ashley Lauren Kerr has recognized the power of fashion. Immersed in design, intrigued by the latest trends, and influenced by classic silhouettes, she takes great pride in creating dresses that fit a unique style and personality. It is Ashley Lauren’s passion for all things fabulous that motivates her to design a dress line that is both timeless and modern. Follow ASHLEYlauren on Instagram @ashleylaurenme for all things TEAMfabulous™, including gorgeous dresses!

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HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalDressDay

Visit www.NationalDressDay.com and follow @nationaldressday on Instagram to participate in our countdown. Don’t forget to wear your favorite dress or post your favorite dress memory using #NationalDressDay on March 6th.

Share a photo of your favorite dress – whether it be from the past or present – on social media using #NationalDressDay.