This year had so many major changes occurring that it’s hard to compare hats from the first of the year to the last of the year. Spring and summer of 1930 showed a majority of hats high on the forehead, not only showing the eyebrows but also the forehead. Crowns became more shallow as the year went on, brims were tipped and tilted and most with an irregular shape.

Lots of fabric manipulation was seen in 1930 hats, instead of sharp hat angles softer lines were seen. Materials draped and the detail was to frame the face. Close fitted hats were seen in softer materials, such as felt, velvet, chenille, knitted wools and tricot both as bands and bodies. The fabrics were often blocked into cushioned brims or double brimmed effects in large, medium and small brims to further the soft look. There were also many close fitted hats that showed width at the sides or across the front giving them the appearance of a brimmed turban.

Close fitted styles were toques, bonnets, berets, turbans, tricornes and cloches, all basically fashioned to show the hair lines. Some were classified as "suit hats". Toward the end of the year many were found worn on the back of the head.

Ornamentation was described as chic and discreetly applied. Self trimming was very popular, in bands, bows, cut-out designs, especially for those who made their own hats. Stitching, shirring and cording were used for the more conservative tailored hats. Feather trimmings were also used, popular were the tiny curled ostrich tufts, especially on velvet, clustered at the top of the crown or low on the side.

With the exposure of the entire forehead, it was found to be too severe for some women to wear. The diagonal brim, or wearing the hat off to one side or the longer on one side brim all helped to lessen the severity.

The following pictures are taken from a variety of fashion magazines. As you can see there were many styles to choose from this year.

PICTORIAL REVIEW

WOMAN'S WORLD