Classic Fedora
In the 1940’s when men were men and women were dames, the “Panama” Fedora was the gentleman’s hat of choice in sultry climes and classic films. It remains the most popular style today.
There are many style variations that are all called Fedoras. I offer five different Fedora styles of Montecristi Panama hats.
The Classic Fedora is my personal favorite. It is, to me, the most elegant, most classic of all. (I especially like the tear-drop-shaped “island” in the top of the crown.) This is the style I wear personally about seventy-five percent of the time.
I designed the blocks (that give the hats their shape) for this particular style myself. I wanted to keep the classic styling while giving the hat a less “blocky” look than was the norm in the ’40’s. I’ve reduced the space between the “dimples” in front and have given the hat a slimmer, more tapered look.
Judging from the number of compliments I receive when wearing this style, and from all the happy emails and phone calls from customers who like what they’re seeing in the mirror, I think it’s safe to say that people like the look.
You can wear this hat with anything. Shorts, jeans, designer resort wear, even a business suit. If you’re buying your first fine Panama hat, or if you’re only likely to have one Panama hat, you should give serious consideration to the Classic Fedora.
The Classic Fedora in the top three photos is size 71⁄4. Crown is 41⁄2 inches tall. Brim is 23⁄4 inches wide. $700.
PRICES Why One Panama Hat Costs More than Another
PREMIUM
$500, $600, $700, $850, $1000, $1500
SUPER-PREMIUM
$2000, $2500, $3000, $3500, $5000
RARE TREASURES very limited availability A $25,000 hat? Really? How Fine Are the Finest?
$7500 to $25,000
BRIM
2 1⁄2 to 3 1⁄8 inches
CROWN
4 1⁄4 to 4 5⁄8 inches
SIZES details
21
1⁄8
to 25
1⁄4
inches
(54 to 64 cm)
SWEATBAND see choices
Standard sweatband for this style is un-dyed fine leather.
RIBBON see choices
Standard ribbon for this style is 1 1⁄16 inch black.
Classic Fedora Order Now
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Pipsqueak Productions, LLC
Text and photos © 1988-2010, B. Brent Black. All rights reserved.
