How to treat a cowboy Hat
There are many hats in the world, many shapes and sizes. However not many of those hats have the rich culture and history that Cowboy hats have. Cowboy hats are Iconic, especially in the western culture. That of which has been around since the 1800’s. The western Icon has been a symbol to those who settle into the wild west. Tamed the wide open, and brought their own shade to big and great plains just by wearing a hat.and not only is a cowboy hat an icon, but also the etiquette of the hat is an icon.
There are many things to the hats etiquette from when to wear, when to not wear. To the superstitions of the hat. When to wear a certain color to when to wear a certain type of hat.
Cowboy hats, while there are many shapes, styles and colors, they all have key features that make it a cowboy hat. Those are wide brims, and tall crowns, these help you look taller and block the sun and rain. Now that we know what they are, how about how to treat them and that is with respect. These are a reflection to one’s self.
WHEN TO WEAR THEM
Overall you can wear a cowboy everyday, everywhere but there are some cases that you can’t. One of those is that it is recommended to not wear then indoors, and you should remove your hat in many situations
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National anthem and the pledge of allegiance
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When attending a religious service or praying
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When you meet a person for the first time
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When attending a formal funeral or wedding
When you remove your hat. Make sure you grab it by the crown, which is the top of the hat, and when you do, if it is for the flag, cover your heart with it.
When mention the rich history of the hat, and an old code is tipping the hat. Now back then it was tipping to women, but now is is considered sexist. However it was considered a way of respect so now it is a silent sign of respect to a fellow cowboy.
There are many types of hats. Straw, felt and leather, and each of them have their own practical aspects. Straw hats are light, and light colored. Perfect for the summer, cause they help block the sun and keep your head cool. And technically the straw hat season starts in May and ends on Labor day. Felt hats are made to look nicer, and keep the head warm, felts were designed for the winter months. Which starts on labor day and ends on memorial day. They are typically made in the darker colors. Not only are they for the winter months. It is recommended that you wear felt for any formal events. Leather hats are an all year hat that helps keep your head warm. They are especially good in the fall and winter. But they also have a much different look. However while there are different materials, there are different colors, and each of them have their own time. Light colors are for the summer, and the dark colors are for the winter months, and it is recommended in formal occasions where black, gray, and dark brown.
SUPERSTITIONS
With the rich history comes superstitions. Some of those superstitions bring Bad luck, and a big superstition is how to set it down. First thing you need to know is that ideally you hang the hat but if you don’t, and when you set it down. You shouldn’t set it down, crown side down. If you do, luck will spill out, but I suggest you don’t set it on the bed or you will invite bad luck and spirits in the home.
Another superstition is wearing it backwards, if you do it's bad luck. Wearing it backwards is easily possible so let me teach you. First the front is narrower while the back is wider, and many manufacturers label the sweat band to help determine the front from the rear. And if there is anything on the hat like a buck, feather or other adornments those should be on the left side.
That is how you show your respect to a hat. Oh and one more thing don’t touch or try on another man's hat without their permission. It isn’t just a hat, it is an item that is personal and holds historical and traditional significance. They are an extension of their personality and style.
