At this time of year, what I love most is curling up with a good book and cup of tea. One of my favorites has been “Vintage Hats & Bonnets, 1770 – 1970”. This complete millinery historical guide was written in 1998 by Susan Langley and published by Collector Books.
My husband gave this book to me for Christmas two years ago. I never tire of this 400 page book as it is both a historical guide and also provides inspiration for today. There are pictures of children’s hats and doll hats as well. There are copies of old magazine covers and advertisements too.
Not only is this book a guide to millinery history, but historical clothing as well. It gives information on hunting for vintage hats, lists information on hat care, repair and tips to identify the vintage hat periods. A great guide for any hat lover.
By: Polly Singer
Dear Polly,
Wow! what a lovely thing for you to write! Am just checking the internet before finalizing the 2nd edition, and had to thank you for you comments. Thought you might like to know that Collector Books tells me there are no more of the 1st edition books left – it’s out of print now. I’ve been working on the 2nd for over a year now – it’s going to be over 90 percent new photos of hats from all periods – from 18th century marvels to the end of the 60s – with a focus on 20th century couture labels. It’s still going to be the same number of pages (404) so most hats from the 1st will not appear in the 2nd (which I think of as more a companion volume to the 1st)
Thanks again for your comments!!! Sue