Bowler Hats were originally invented as safety hats.

Bowler Hats were originally invented as safety hats.

The first bowler hat was originaly created for Edward Coke, the younger brother of the 2nd Earl of Leicester in 1849. It was designed by London hatmakers Thomas and William Bowlers for hatters Lock & Co of St James's.

Origins. The bowler hat is said to have been designed in 1849 by the London hat-makers Thomas and William Bowler to fulfill an order placed by the company of hatters James Lock & Co.

It was originally designed to protect the head from blows. One story is that the British soldier and politician Edward Coke, the younger brother of the 2nd Earl of Leicester had it made in 1849. Its purpose was to protect his gamekeepers' heads from low-hanging branches while on horseback.

All the first bowler hats were made using fur felt. This not only ensured their robustness and style but also made them water repellent. The today's bowler hat is made of rabbit fur or wool felt that has been tightly spun, a process that ensures that they are still as robust and long-lasting as the original hats.

The bowler hat is a versatile piece of headgear that suits men with a range of face shapes – the only guys who should probably avoid them are those with particularly round faces. If that's you, you'll look better sporting a fedora.