Victorian Bonnet 1837

Early Victorian Era (1837-1860): Fashion, History, and Social Meaning

In the early Victorian era (1837–1860), bonnets were the most popular style of hats for women. Bonnets had a brim that framed the face and tied under the chin. They were typically made of straw, silk, or velvet and were often elaborately decorated with ribbons, flowers, and feathers. Bonnets symbolized modesty, femininity, and social standing.

“A sense of anticipation fills the air as I twirl the delicate ribbon between my fingers. It’s the eve of a grand social gathering in 1837, and I find myself standing before the looking glass, donned in all my finery. My gown, rich in fabric and adorned with intricate lace, cascades elegantly to the floor. Yet, the pièce de résistance sits atop my head—a bonnet as resplendent as the summer sun.”

Fashioned from the finest straw and meticulously embellished with roses, the bonnet embraces my head with rustling ribbons. Each movement I make brings forth a whisper of the past, a reminder that bonnets were more than mere accessories. They were statements of elegance, individuality, and societal rank.

In 1837, a lady’s bonnet was carefully chosen to reflect refinement and virtue. Wide brims shaded fair complexions, while embellishments showed artistic craftsmanship. Attending a social meant more than mingling—it was a display of fashion sensibilities.

At gatherings, bonnets sparked conversation, much like jewelry or gowns. Each style reflected cultural influences, class identity, and the artistry of millinery shops. The bonnet was a bridge between fashion and society, a wearable piece of Victorian history.

At East Angel Harbor Hats, we carry forward this tradition by treating hats as more than adornments. Fashion serves as a gateway to conversation, bridging the past and the present. Our shop celebrates both vintage and modern hats, fostering discussions on fashion as an art form, cultural heritage, and personal identity.

Beyond ribbons and lace, hats reveal stories of empowerment, individuality, and even resistance. We encourage buyers to consider longevity and sustainability. Each piece should endure—treasured for a lifetime and passed down as an heirloom, just as bonnets once were in Victorian households.

In my little corner of the fashion world, discussions on hat styles are not limited to mere aesthetics. I have been fortunate enough to witness the magic that unfolds at East Angel Harbor Hats, where fashion enthusiasts from all walks of life congregate at various events. It is a true testament to the power of fashion as an art form and a reflection of society.

Beyond the delicate ribbons and intricate embellishments, we delve into the narratives behind each bonnet, exploring the historical significance and societal messages they carry. Our conversations extend far beyond the surface, uncovering tales of female empowerment, cultural heritage, and the nuanced expressions of personal identity.

With each spirited blog, you'll find my shop delving into the broader realm of fashion and society. We'll examine the connections between fashion and politics, how clothing can be a means of self-expression and resistance and a catalyst for societal change. 

The exchange of ideas at East Angel Harbor Hats transcends the realm of simple adornments, for I recognize that fashion is a powerful conduit for cultural dialogue. It helps me connect the dots, bridging the past, present, and future, as we unravel the stories behind each hat style and uncover their implications in a broader social context.

In my humble boutique, my customers share a love for vintage and modern fashion. Whether discussing the resurgence of vintage fashion or the emergence of sustainable alternatives, We unite with a collective desire to understand the more profound implications and impact of our fashion choices. Our choices should reflect a desire for longevity. If our purchases cannot endure for generations to cherish, we must reconsider them. Our throwaway society is damaging the world as a whole, both economically and aesthetically! With each purchase of a hat from East Angel Harbor Hats, we ensure it's designed to last your lifetime and to be passed down as an heirloom to future generations.

Young ladies shopping for a bonnet.

During the Early Victorian Era, hats played a crucial role in women’s fashion. Imagine a bustling city on a sunny spring afternoon:

Characters:

• Elizabeth – a young woman in her early 20s, stylish yet modest.

• Mary – her older, married sister, reflecting grace and respectability.

• Mrs. Jenkins – a lady of high standing, known for her impeccable taste.

• Janie – the eager assistant at Mrs. Smith’s millinery shop.

Elizabeth and Mary stroll along a fashionable street, admiring shop windows.

In the early Victorian era, bonnets were the most popular style of hats for women. Wide-brimmed and tied under the chin, they were crafted from straw, silk, or velvet and often adorned with ribbons, flowers, and feathers. Bonnets were not just accessories—they symbolized modesty, elegance, and social standing.

A sense of anticipation fills the air as Elizabeth twirls the delicate ribbon of her new bonnet. “Mary, did you see the latest edition of The Ladies’ Fashion Gazette? They featured the most exquisite bonnets! I simply must have one for the garden party,” she exclaims.

Mary smiles gently, adjusting her own lace-trimmed bonnet. “Indeed, sister, the designs are lovely. But remember, a modest bonnet will show your taste and virtue just as well.”

Elizabeth nods thoughtfully. “You are right. I want to make a good impression on Mr. Thompson, the new young gentleman in town.”

As they stroll past a flower stall, Elizabeth points to a small bouquet. “Those roses are so lovely! I wish I could tuck a few into my bonnet.”

Mary chuckles softly. “Only a lady with a steady hand could do that without crushing them. Perhaps Janie at the millinery shop can help you.”

Soon, they encounter Mrs. Jenkins, a lady renowned for her impeccable taste. “Good afternoon, Elizabeth and Mary! What a beautiful day! I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation about bonnets. You must visit Mrs. Smith’s millinery shop; the new collection is truly exquisite this season.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Jenkins,” Elizabeth replies eagerly. “I will visit her shop tomorrow morning.”

Mary curtsies politely. “We shall certainly consider it. Your recommendation is most kind.”

At Mrs. Smith’s shop, the sisters are greeted warmly by Janie. “Good afternoon, ladies! How may I assist you today?”

Elizabeth beams. “We’re seeking bonnets for a garden party. Something with delicate ribbons and perhaps silk flowers would be perfect.”

Mary adds, “And it should reflect elegance and grace without being too showy.”

Janie presents several options. Elizabeth lifts a lovely straw bonnet adorned with roses and adjusts it on her head. “Does this one suit me?” she asks.

“It’s perfect,” Janie assures her. “The pale pink roses highlight your skin beautifully.”

Mary smiles. “I think we will both turn heads at the party, sister.”

Gazing into the mirror, Elizabeth exclaims, “This is perfect! It complements my new-day dress beautifully.”

Mary replies, “And this one suits me just fine. I want to set a good example for my children and their governess.”

With their purchases carefully wrapped, the sisters step out into the warm spring afternoon. “Shall we take a carriage or enjoy a walk through the gardens?” Elizabeth asks.

“Let’s walk,” Mary replies. “The fresh air will do us good, and we can admire the blooms along the way.”

As they approach the garden party, the soft murmur of voices and gentle music greets them. Elizabeth whispers, “Look at the tulips! Our bonnets fit right in with the colors of the garden.”

Mary nods. “I’m eager to see who else has arrived. Surely there are a few new faces to meet.”

They are welcomed by friends and acquaintances alike. “Elizabeth! Mary! How lovely to see you both!” a lady exclaims, admiring their bonnets.

“Thank you! We couldn’t resist stopping at the millinery shop this morning,” Elizabeth replies. “The new styles are simply exquisite.”

As they approach the garden party, the soft murmur of voices and laughter reaches their ears. Gentle music floats through the open windows, and the scent of flowers mingles with the crisp spring air.

“Look at that arrangement of tulips!” Elizabeth whispers. “I think our bonnets will fit right in with the colors of the garden.”

“I agree,” Mary replies. “And I am eager to see who else has arrived. Surely there are a few new faces we have yet to meet.”

They are greeted by friends and acquaintances alike. “Elizabeth! Mary! How lovely to see you both!” one lady exclaims, admiring their bonnets.

Elizabeth curtsies politely. “Thank you! We couldn’t resist stopping at the millinery shop this morning. These new styles are exquisite.”

Mary nods gracefully. “Yes, the selection was most impressive. It is always a delight to see fashion so thoughtfully crafted.”

The Early Victorian Era (1837–1860) was a time when bonnets reflected more than fashion—they embodied social values, cultural heritage, and personal identity. From millinery shops to grand socials, bonnets shaped the way women expressed themselves. At East Angel Harbor Hats, we honor this legacy by creating hats that connect the past with the present, ensuring style, sustainability, and storytelling remain timeless.