Boater hats

A boater hat is a retro summer hat style that is known for its straight brim and flat stiff crown.

The Boater hat finds its origins in the world of sailing and boating. In many European countries, you find cultural traditions linked to the Boater hat. In Italy, the gondoliers in Venice still wear their version of the Boater hat, know as Canotier. In Alkmaar, the cheese capital of the Netherlands, the cheese carriers wear a kind of Boater hat. The trimming defines the difference between a Boater hat and a Canotier.
From the late 18th till mid 19th century, the Boater hat was a very popular and trendy hat style for men in Europe and in the USA. King Edward VII, Maurice Chevalier, Oscar Wilde were often seen with it. When attending the Henley Regatta, do not forget to bring the traditional Boater hat.

Since Coco Chanel made the Boater hat a fashion accessory for women, many variations to the style have been developed. At Bronté, we have a charming mini straw boater hat trimmed with a veil, Nena, that can be worn at a wedding, a picnic and a cultural event. There is also the Center design, a boater hat made of deluxe fabrics and perfect for spring. Boater styles like Gabrielle and Matelot are made of mixed straws and very suitable to give protection and shade on a hot summer day. Bronté's interpretation of the modern boater hat is one that is supple, stylish and fits your head perfectly. The most traditional Boater hat in the Bronté collection is the Emile style, a lightweight version made of Italian straw and available in a variety of trimmings.

The Boater hat style is surely gaining popularity as winter headwear. Magda is a more subtle, and supple wool felt execution, while BaileyB attracts plenty of attention with its proud proportions.