Although Civic headwear is firmly ceremonial nowadays, the various types of hats worn by mayors, aldermen, mace bearers and even town criers have their roots in more dramatic origins. Micheals Civic Robes have been crafting civic headwear since 1995, and use their deep understanding of civic tradition alongside a knowledge of new techniques and fabrics to create civic headwear that is as functional as it is ceremonial.
Tricorn and Bicorn Hats – a brief history
In the late seventeenth century a curious development was happening in headwear – the wig. What began as a modest addition to a nobleman’s wardrobe soon became more and more elaborate. As wigs grew larger, the old-style low-crowned, wide-brimmed hat grew less practical. Brims of hats were cocked upwards, to allow for more wig space, and over time this developed into the stiffened three-cornered tricorn.
Over time embellishments were added, and nowadays features such as braiding or feathers are used to denote office. This varies from area to area but as a general rule the mayor’s hat is trimmed with gold, the deputy mayor has a hat trimmed with silver and other civic members have a black trim. Any colour can be added though, and some civic bodies choose to represent town colours or local characteristics by using coloured braid. Feathers are less common, except on the hat of the Lord Mayor or Lady Mayoress, which feature the grandeur of ostrich plumes.
When are Tricorns or Bicorns worn?
In modern civic society, the Tricorn or Bicorn is worn whenever the mayor or mayoress is out of doors. As well as offering protection from changeable weather, the hat is a symbol of the solemnity and tradition of office. The Mayoral role involves a huge amount of civic ceremonies, such as Remembrance Sunday Parades, meeting with local community groups and faith groups and offering a unifying presence at town or city events. Ceremonial dress is an important part of this presence and provides a link to the past as well as a sense of certainty that comes with tradition.
Who wears a bicorn or tricorn hat?
According to modern tradition, a mayor wears a bicorn, positioned front to back, and a mayoress wears a tricorn.
Other types of Civic Headwear
Whilst the mayoral bicorn and tricorn are the most well-known items of civic headwear, Micheals Civic Robes offer suitable headwear for a range of civic roles, and can even create bespoke civic headwear to suit your needs.
Tudor Bonnets
Also known as Doctor’s bonnets, these hats are familiar in academic institutions as well as council settings. Created from soft fabric, the bonnet is flat and circular and often features a tassel to denote particulars of office.
Mace Bearers headwear
The mace bearer plays an important role in any civic ceremony. They usually wear a top hat, which can be trimmed with a braid.
Alderman and Freeman hats
According to tradition particular to each council, the alderman or freeman will wear a tricorn – trim and finish may vary according to council wishes
Town Crier Hats
The town crier is traditionally pictured wearing a tricorn, but in some localities, they may wear a top hat or even a bowler hat.
Get in touch
Micheals Civic Robes have been serving ceremonial office since 1995. We offer expert advice, exceptional craftsmanship and impeccable products. To find out more, discuss your requirements or talk about bespoke civic headwear or civic robes, simply telephone 01179099988, email [email protected] or get in touch online today.
