The porkpie hat is a type of hat that has a round, flat crown and a short, upturned brim. It is commonly made of wool or felt and is often associated with jazz, blues, and ska music.
The history of the porkpie hat can be traced back to the mid-19th century. It is believed to have originated in the United States and was first worn by both men and women. The name "porkpie" comes from its resemblance to the shape of a pork pie, a traditional British dish.
The porkpie hat became popular among African American men in the early 1900s. Jazz musicians such as Lester Young and Charlie Parker were often seen wearing porkpie hats on stage and in publicity photos. The hat became a symbol of the jazz culture and was seen as a fashion statement among young people.
The popularity of the porkpie hat continued into the 1950s and 1960s, with musicians like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. wearing the hat as part of their signature style. The hat was also popular among beatniks and the Mod subculture in the UK.
In recent years, the porkpie hat has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It has been worn by celebrities such as Justin Timberlake, Johnny Depp, and Bruno Mars. The hat has also been featured in popular culture, appearing in TV shows like Breaking Bad and movies like The Blues Brothers.
Today, the porkpie hat remains a classic and stylish accessory for men and women. It continues to be associated with jazz, blues, and ska music, as well as with the fashion-forward subcultures that have embraced it over the years.