The timeless accessory

The old man down the road wears one. Come to think about it, he's always worn one on that seasoned head of his. The trademark of a 'mature' gentleman. They all seem to wear  them or at least own one. I am not talking about a ropey toupee or wavy wig. No, something less circumspect than the afore mentioned items. What I speak of usually comes in tweed, and colours that look like autumnal days and have cosy rustic tones.

For as long as I can recall, the flat cap and baker boy hat has been synonymous with the grandads that I have observed either ambling about with an air of craggy noncelance or zooming around on a mobility scooter. Men of honour my friends. Men who have seen it and done it - and now wear such hats as a badge to denote that they are of an age in which political in-correctness and sarcastic/flippant comments are accepted. And regularly flow from mouths decorated by rotted teeth or for the savvy ones - pretty dentures.

This unmistakable fashion staple has been a desired requirement for chaps who were born way before the word 'swagger' first rocked up on this earth. It seems as though it is even mandatory for them to have one on their wise heads. You are not a recognised old man if you have never worn a flat cap, oogled at young skirt. Said something slightly racist. (And worn nothing but a matching white vest and underpants combo, with socks and brogues).

Younger cats are now beginning to take note - seeing the appeal of a happy chappy flat cap or baker boy. It can serve to be a nice alternative to the ridiculously popular New Era snap back, or a trucker hat - depending on your preference.

For years I have noticed many older gentlemen sporting them like dandy connoisseurs and just accepted that it was just one of the things that men of that age wore. But, as with many things linked to style and fashion - the younger generation are taking inspiration from the seniors. Vintage wear is huge at the moment. With young fashionista's raiding their parents old dusty suitcases in the attempt to salvage something 'unique' and different. Gone are the days when the young would mock their parents for what they once wore. Now, the youths, (some) want a piece of mum and dads old garb. Second hand shops have never been so popular and avidly frequented by the fashion conscientious individuals.

The humble flat cap has even been been adorned by that small celebrity, David Beckham. He has been spotted rocking them on more than one occasion. This man has his finger on anything remotely 'fashionable' - so, for people who need reassurance that it is 'OK' to wear these hats - but fear ridicule - ie somebody laughing at you and calling you a wannabe grandad. You can always say: If Beckham wears it - then it's good enough for me. This does not necessarily     apply to all of his back catalogue of 'stylish' endeavours. (Sarong springs to mind). However, if you are a Muslim man or a cross dresser, perhaps you do not need to take note of the last few sentences.


So, if you are feeling like a little change - why not try one of these original grandad hats that look rather good with many looks. And if whilst you are wearing one and the inclination comes for you to behave 'badly' just blame it on the hat. (Very poor excuse, but still an excuse non the less).

Props to all the older aficionados amongst us - for being forward thinking and super cool when it comes to stylish head game. To the old man down the road, I salute you.


Demola, TCC