Boater

Saks Fifth Avenue, 1960

MEDIUMstraw, rayon
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONCostume Institute
CULTUREAmerican
CREDIT LINEGift of Eugene H. Mopsik, 1977

Step back to 1960 and see how this classic boater hat, sold by Saks Fifth Avenue, embodies mid-century American style and the era's appreciation for refined accessories.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

This boater hat, crafted from straw and rayon in 1960, evokes a sense of mid-century leisure and classic style. Its crisp lines and natural materials suggest a perfect accessory for a sunny day, perhaps a stroll along Fifth Avenue or a summer outing. The hat's construction highlights the meticulous attention to detail that defined fashion accessories of the era. More than just headwear, this boater represents a specific moment in fashion history when department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue played a significant role in defining and disseminating American style, offering accessible luxury to a broad clientele. It's a tangible link to a time when hats were an indispensable part of a well-dressed person's wardrobe, signifying both elegance and an active engagement with seasonal trends.

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What to Notice

1

The tightly woven straw, forming a smooth, uniform surface.

2

The dark rayon band, providing a sharp contrast to the straw.

3

The flat crown and brim, characteristic of a classic boater.

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Audio Deep Dive

Step back to 1960 and see how this classic boater hat, sold by Saks Fifth Avenue, embodies mid-century American style and the era's appreciation for refined ac…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
Saks Fifth Avenue

From a Washington D.C. men's shop in 1867 to a Fifth Avenue icon, Saks dressed America's elite for over 150 years.

Read Saks's full story in Art Whisper
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