Sombrero

Sombrero, which literally means “shadower,” is the generic word for hat in Spanish. The sombrero features a tall, pointed or slightly rounded crown and a very wide brim (to shade or shadow the wearer) with an upturned edge.

The Spanish brought their flat-crowned version to Mexico and the vaqueros (cowboys) modified the design by adding a higher, very conical crown and a wider brim. Texas cowboys adopted the flat-crowned, wide-brimmed version from Spain. Decorative versions were made of plush felt or velvet with elaborate embroidery on a saucer-shaped brim, and are typically associated with mariachi musicians.

Written by TheSpectrum

1900-1940 wool and silk sombrero

Courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art

1930s sombrero inspired hat

Courtesy of thespectrum

1940s Betty Co-Ed straw and rayon sombrero inspired hat

Courtesy of thespectrum

1950s Mexican sombrero hat earrings

Courtesy of betterdressesvintage