Women's Hats

Bonnets are still a fad on the 1870s but with a new look, and hats decorate the swept up hairstyles high on the head.

During the early part of the decade, small bonnets without strings or curtains were popular. By 1877, bonnets became noticeably narrower. Until 1874, hats were often perched quite high on the head. The women in the early 1870s image below all wear fashionable headgear. Bonnets are set far back on the heads of the two women in the front. Hats are perched high on the heads of the women in the back.

Early 1870s Bonnets and Hats: Image courtesy of Joan L. Severa, Dressed for the Photographer: Ordinary Americans and Fashion, 1840-1900, 1995

During the late 1870s, hats were no longer perched high atop the head. Smaller, more closer fitting hats adorned the woman's head.

Late 1870s Small Hats: Image courtesy of Joan L. Severa