The Collection of Susan Corwin

"It all began with buttons. As a college student I began to frequent vintage/antique shops and became fascinated by buttons. The variety of styles and materials was impressive. They were also small and affordable, so I began to collect them.

When I learned about the semi-annual Vintage Clothing Show in my area, I went in search of buttons. But there was so much more to see! Vintage jewelry, fabric, clothing, hats. So, little by little, I began to add other things to my collection. Hats were just fun! And it was, and still is, a buyer's market because not many people wear hats these days. (A tip of the hat to Pharrell Williams for recently bringing attention to hats once again.)

I fell in love with the flamboyant styles incorporating feathers, fabric flowers, ribbons, beads, and other embellishments.

I do wear my hats to special events, and I wear a different hat for luck once a week when I play team trivia at a local pub."

Many thanks to Susan Corwin for sharing the history and some great examples from her collection.

You can see more examples of her collection at our Pinterest Vintage Hats Group Board

Bonbon Hat - Unknown Maker

Dior Hat

Jack McConell Hat

Hat by Mr. John

Purple Hat by Mr. John

Schiaparelli Floral Cap

Seaweed Hat

Floral Meadow Hat

Basketry Hat

Blue Wide Brim Summer Hat