Questions & Answers
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When were cloche hats invented?
1 Answer

The cloche hat was first created in 1908 by Caroline Reboux and was immediately adopted as a favorite for many women. The shape of a bell was the inspiration and why the French word for bell, cloche, was chosen for the hat. This style of chapeau had its heyday in the 1920 to-30s when flappers and film stars everywhere donned a cloche and showed off their style. Shop vintage and contemporary cloche hats from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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Shop for Cloche Hats on 1stDibs
Vintage 1920's Silver Lamé Cloche hat 1920's flapper hat rhinestone and feather
Located in Nashville, TN
This rare and incredibly intricate 1920's silver lamé cloche hat, constructed on a moulded internal felt base, on which the lamé panels are sewn to, is a beauty to behold. Decorated ...
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1920s Cloche Hats
1960s Oleg Cassini Navy Blue + White Mod Linen + Silk Nautical Vintage 60s Hat
By Oleg Cassini
Located in San Diego, CA
Beyond chic 1960s OLEG CASSINI navy blue and white linen and silk blend nautical hat! The white section features a linen and silk blend that retains its' shape nicely. Navy blue faux...
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1960s French Hats
1950s Beresford NWT Deadstock Blue Straw + Silk Ribbon Jewled 50s Vintage Hat
Located in San Diego, CA
Gorgeous, and brand new with original tags, 1950s BERESFORD blue straw hat! Features light blue straw, with a royal blue silk grosgrain ribbon. Blue rhinestone detail at side. Looks ...
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1950s American Hats
1940s Marshall Fields Black Silk Velvet Rhinestone Avant Garde 40s Cloche Hat
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful vintage 1940s MARSHALL FIELD'S black silk velvet rhinestone encrusted cloche hat! The perfect piece to complete any outfit. Can be worn by most sizes due to the fit.
In gr...
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1940s French Cloche Hats
1960s Christian Dior Paris Couture Vintage 60s Black Felt Cloche Hat Size 22
Located in San Diego, CA
A refined 1960s Christian Dior Paris couture black and taupe hat, crafted in classic black felt with a sculptural cloche silhouette emblematic of mid-century French millinery. The design reflects Dior’s post-war elegance, balancing architectural structure with timeless wearability.
Unlike many vintage hats from earlier decades, this example was produced on a true size block. The hat is clearly marked size 22, and the interior circumference measures approximately 22 inches, confirming accurate sizing. This is a particularly desirable feature, as many vintage designer hats run significantly smaller.
Finished with original interior labeling, this piece was designed for real wear rather than purely decorative use. Its clean, understated form allows it to pair seamlessly with tailored daywear or formal evening ensembles.
An authentic Dior couture millinery piece from the 1960s, offering rarity in sizing, refined construction, and enduring sophistication.
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Details
• Designer: Christian Dior
• Era: 1960s
• Color: Black
• Material: Felt
• Marked Size: 22
• Interior Circumference: approximately 22 inches
• Origin: France
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Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The felt remains well preserved and the structure is intact, with no notable flaws.
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1960s French Cloche Hats
Black Tulle Cocktail Turban Hat with Chandelier Bead Floral Trim - S, 1960s
By Deborah
Located in Tucson, AZ
Not for the faint of heart, this frothy cocktail hat will add inches to your height and ensure you leave a memorable impression. Dangling faceted beads around the bottom edge add sub...
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