What is the average hat size for men?

The average men's hat size in the UK is 59 cm, typically a size Large. Measuring your head ensures the most accurate fit.

How do I measure my head for a hat?

Use a soft tape measure and measure around your head just above the ears and across the forehead. Keep the tape level and snug to determine your size in centimetres.

A flat cap is a rounded cap with a small stiff brim at the front, traditionally associated with British heritage style.

What is the difference between a fedora and a trilby?

A fedora typically has a wider brim and softer shape, while a trilby features a shorter brim and a taller crown, offering a sleeker silhouette.

Can a felt hat get wet?

Felt hats are naturally water-resistant but should not be exposed to heavy rain for extended periods. Allow them to dry naturally at room temperature.

Do you offer in-store collection?

Yes, orders can be collected from our London, Cambridge, or Oxford stores within 3-5 working days.

Brooklyn Cap History: The Original 8-Piece Vintage Hat

March 12, 2026

The Brooklyn Cap: History and Style

In 1860, the Brooklyn Excelsiors wore the ancestor of the modern, rounded-top baseball cap, and by 1900, the "Brooklyn style" cap became popular. Based on an 8 Piece construction with a button top, the Brooklyn was different to the English Bakerboy style as it was narrower, more oval shaped with a curved peak. They come in winter wool, linen and Raw Silk as well leather.

The Brooklyn has become a staple of the cap styles, becoming as synonymous in the U.S. at the beginning of the 20^th century as the flat cap was in England. Of course, now, the modern Baseball cap has taken over, but never forget that this was the original and not so dissimilar in construction. The Brooklyn crown is 8-piece, stitched to the edge, whereas the baseball is a 6-piece but unstitched.

In the States, the bakerboy does exist but known as the ‘Newsboy’ cap, or at time ‘Redford’, so famous for wearing one is he, in films like the Sting.

The Brooklyn cap today is very popular with the vintage scene, particularly the 50s look when the Brooklyn was very popular. David Beckham is rarely seen without one these days.

FAQs

Q1: What is a Brooklyn Cap?
A: The Brooklyn Cap is an 8-piece rounded-top hat, originally popular in 19th-century New York and a precursor to the modern baseball cap.

Q2: How is the Brooklyn Cap different from the Bakerboy?
A: The Brooklyn Cap is narrower and more oval-shaped with a curved peak, while the Bakerboy (or Newsboy) is rounder and often has a button top.

Q3: What materials are Brooklyn Caps made from?
A: They come in winter wool, linen, raw silk, and sometimes leather, reflecting their vintage and premium styling.

Q4: Who popularised the Brooklyn Cap?
A: Originally the Brooklyn Excelsiors in the 1860s, it became a staple in early 20th-century U.S. fashion and remains popular in vintage style today.

Q5: Can I wear a Brooklyn Cap with modern outfits?
A: Yes, the Brooklyn Cap pairs perfectly with casual, retro, or vintage-inspired outfits and is often worn by fashion-conscious celebrities.

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