Timeless Hats in the UK: Your Guide to Trilby Hats and Pork Pie Hats

Hats have always been more than just accessories. In the UK, they’ve represented tradition, status, and personal style for centuries. From the cobblestone streets of London to seaside promenades in Brighton, certain hat styles stand out for their heritage and elegance. Two of these, the trilby hat and the pork pie hat in the UK, continue to inspire both classic and modern fashion lovers.

A Closer Look at the Trilby Hat

The trilby hat is instantly recognisable by its short brim, angled downward at the front, and its pinched crown. It first appeared on the London stage in 1894, worn by an actress in the play Trilby—hence the name. By the 1920s and 30s, it became a fashion statement among gentlemen in cities like London and Manchester.

Today, the trilby hat is a wardrobe essential for those who appreciate understated sophistication. At HatsXcaps, our trilby hats come in various materials including:

Wool felt for autumn and winter warmth.
Straw trilbies for summer events like garden parties and horse races.
Lightweight cotton blends for casual, everyday wear.

Whether worn with a three-piece suit or a weekend polo shirt, the trilby hat offers timeless versatility.

The Pork Pie Hat: Bold, Creative, and Classically British

With its flat-topped crown and short, uniform brim, the pork pie hat in the UK offers a distinctive silhouette. Popularised in Britain in the mid-19th century, it later became associated with jazz musicians, film stars, and artists. In recent decades, it’s made a strong comeback in both vintage and contemporary streetwear scenes.

At HatsXcaps, we offer pork pie hats in UK styles that range from classic felt models to breathable straw versions perfect for summer festivals. They’re a favourite among those who want their hat to be both stylish and a little unconventional.

Why These Hats Remain UK Favourites

The UK has a rich hat-wearing culture. While fashion trends come and go, trilby hats and pork pie hats endure because:

They suit many face shapes – making them universally flattering.
They work for all seasons – felt for the cold months, straw for the warm.
They bridge the gap between casual and formal – equally at home at a wedding or a Sunday market.

Social media style influencers have also played a part in their revival, pairing these hats with both vintage-inspired outfits and modern streetwear.

HatsXcaps: A Passion for Style

Our mission at HatsXcaps is to connect UK shoppers with high-quality hats that feel as good as they look. Every trilby and pork pie hat in our collection is carefully selected for:

Craftsmanship – durable stitching and premium materials.
Comfort – hats that fit well and feel light even after hours of wear.
Heritage details – respecting traditional hat-making design while embracing modern fashion sensibilities.

We’re not just a store; we’re part of the UK’s ongoing hat story.

How to Choose the Right Hat for You

Picking between a trilby and a pork pie hat often comes down to your style and needs. Here are some tips:

Consider Your Face Shape

Round faces: Pork pie hats can add a flattering balance.
Oval faces: Both trilbies and pork pies work beautifully.
Square faces: Trilby hats can soften sharper angles.

Think About the Occasion

Formal events: Wool felt trilbies work perfectly for weddings and races.
Casual outings: Straw pork pies or cotton trilbies add effortless style.

Match the Season

Winter: Wool and felt trilbies or pork pies keep you warm.
Summer: Straw trilbies and pork pies keep you cool and stylish.

Styling Ideas for the Modern UK Wardrobe

Men: Pair a navy wool trilby with a tailored overcoat for winter city walks.
Women: Combine a straw trilby with a floral dress for summer events.
Streetwear fans: A black pork pie hat works perfectly with a denim jacket and sneakers.

Adding small accessories—like a patterned scarf, sunglasses, or brooch—can personalise your hat and make it truly yours.

Hat Care Tips

Investing in a good hat is just the beginning—caring for it ensures it lasts for years.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
For felt hats, use a soft brush to remove dust.
For straw hats, wipe gently with a damp cloth.
Never store your hat upside down; it can warp the brim.

Sustainability in Hat Fashion

At HatsXcaps, we prioritise suppliers who share our values of sustainability. Many of our hats are made from renewable or responsibly sourced materials like natural straw and eco-friendly wool.

FAQs About Trilby Hats and Pork Pie Hats in the UK

Q1: What makes the trilby hat different from a fedora?
A trilby hat has a shorter brim angled downward at the front, while a fedora’s brim is wider and usually flat or slightly curved.

Q2: Are trilby hats and pork pie hats only for men?
Not at all. Both styles are unisex and work beautifully in men’s and women’s fashion.

Q3: Can I wear a trilby or pork pie hat in the rain?
Light rain is fine for wool or felt hats, but avoid heavy rain. Straw hats should never be soaked.

Q4: Do HatsXcaps offer different sizes?
Yes, we stock a range of sizes and some adjustable designs to ensure the perfect fit.

Q5: Which hat is more formal—trilby or pork pie?
Generally, trilbies are seen as slightly more formal, but a well-chosen pork pie hat can look just as polished.

Q6: Are these hats popular in UK events like Ascot?
Yes, both trilby and pork pie hats are popular choices for UK social events, especially when paired with seasonal outfits.

Q7: Can these hats be customised?
At HatsXcaps, we offer designs in a variety of colours and trims so you can choose something that feels personal.