Hats can be stylish and outlandish, formal and conservative; they can denote status and authority or simply offer protection against the elements; they can hide the wearer or draw full attention to them. Hats have been part of our social and cultural history for as far back as we have records, and have appeared throughout the centuries in many different forms, styles and materials. Filled to the brim with illustrations, artworks, photographs and designs, The Hat Book reveals the fascinating history of the humble hat, from the very first tomb-painting of a straw hat to nineteenth century bonnets with ribbons, flowers and bows; from the social etiquette of top hats and bowler hats to the haute couture fashion statements of Philip Treacy and Isabella Blow.