Which came on the scene first: the trilby or fedora hat? Historically, the credit as ‘first’ goes hands down to the fedora. The origin of the fedora is fascinating. The word itself hails from the title of an 1882 Victorien Sardou play titled “Fédora,”
Written for the famed French stage star Sarah Bernhardt to play the role of Princess Fédora Romazov, Bernhardt wore a soft-brimmed hat with a center crease. When the play began performances in the United States in 1889, people from all walks of life began embracing the iconic fedora.
While the trilby wasn’t far behind in making a fashion statement, it was initially popularized in the 1884 novel ‘Trilby’ by George du Maurier. When the stage adaptation of ‘Trilby’ premiered at Her Majesty’s Theatre in 1885, it became a hit, too. In the early twentieth century, the trilby was known in Britain as the “rich man’s” hat, and it was frequently worn to the races.
Frank Sinatra, long known for wearing fedoras, was seen donning a trilby on occasion. Automobile drivers in the 1960s loved trilby because of their lower height clearance. The trilby trend heavily resurged in the 1980s along with the popularity of the retro look being topped off with classy trilby hats. Over recent years, Hollywood stars Rhianna, Kate Middleton, Victoria Beckham, Madonna, Justin Timberlake, and Michael Jackson have shown their love for the trilby hat.
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Fedora vs Trilby Hats: Their Similarities
The structure of the trilby and fedora are similar in a couple of ways physically, which is one reason they are commonly mistaken for one another. However, there are other similarities between the two, and we’ll discuss all of these here before moving on to their differences.
Their first similarity is how these hats came into the limelight. Both were the product of novels that transitioned into stage plays named after them. Another commonality is that the materials they are available in, such as wool, fur felts, straw, linen, etc. in an array of colors to match any outfit.
Both the trilby and the fedora have a crown shape, yet the trilby’s crown is generally pinched a bit more pointed than the fedora’s pinch, which tends to be less pronounced. Another common feature is that they both have a brim. However, trilby hats have shorter brims, earning them the nickname “stingy brim” hat. This makes the trilby resemble a pork pie hat more than a fedora.
The Difference Between Fedora and Trilby Hats
While having a brim is a similarity, the difference in their size factors into some of the differences. For example, fedora brims can be snapped down or up, while trilby hats have a permanently fixed downward brim.
The position the hats are worn is different as well. Fedoras are worn in a forward position, allowing the more generous brim to offer sun protection and shade for the eyes and face. Trilby hats have more of a perched look and sit further back on the head, so there is no sun protection—just-style.
The reason the hat is worn can be a major difference. Fedoras are ideal for both casual and formal wear. The trilby has long been regarded as a “smart casual hat”, but depending on the material used and the season, it can be ideal for both evening and day outings, both casual and semi-formal.
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Notable Fedora and Trilby Appearances
The fedora is by far the best-known fashion accessory worn in movies and television shows. Old school and modern mystery show detectives love the sense of mystery having a fedora partially covering their face gives off. Fedoras has also been seen in crime-fighting movies such as X-Men and Superman.
The trilby’s popularity rose again with the Blues Brothers films, with stars Dan Akroyd and John Belushi singing and dancing and having wild times while donning trilby hats. Women look stunning in these hats, which have attracted leading ladies’ attention, ranging from Jessica Alba and Cameron Diaz to Anne Hathaway.
Choosing a Trilby Hat vs. a Fedora
The trilby fedora difference may be the deciding factor on which one you choose to wear to certain events as an accessory. Both are ranked as timeless wardrobe pieces and are staples for fashionistas around the world, but which one is right for you?
Fashion advisors recommended having a selection of both fedoras and trilby hats on hand. This gives you options to match your wardrobe through design and having many colors and materials to choose from. However, your lifestyle and what you’re doing from day to day may determine which hat will look best and serve your needs. Some things to help you choose are next.
What Shape Best Compliments Your Facial Features?
The rounded lines of the trilby are great for those wanting to soften prominent or sharp facial features. Fedoras tend to be a go-to choice for anyone with a wider face seeking to create more visual balance. Get a fedora with a brim length that matches the length of your facial shape. Then complete the look by styling the brim to highlight the features you want to show off.
What Environments Will the Hat Be Worn the Most?
If you are a beach-goer or an outdoor lover, you might want to wear a fedora for extra sun protection. If you tend to go to semi-formal and formal social events, fedoras are considered ideal for dressing up, too. However, the trilby is becoming more common in similar environments, but it is still widely considered “casual”.
Stylish, Functional, or Both?
There are so many options in the world of hats, so finding the right one for your style and taste won’t be hard. Fedoras and their broad brims make them a bit more practical than short-brimmed fedoras or short-brimmed trilby hats.
If you’re the type who loves being on top of the trending fashion scene, it never hurts to stay apprised of current choices and trends. While Bothe fedora and trilby are fashionable looks, if you want a trendy hat ready for everyday action, a fedora might be the best choice for you. But hey, you don’t have to choose—try them both!
