Vintage Black Velvet Hat Noir 40s Feather Tilt Wide Brim 。This remarkable 1942-1943 imported hat from Great Britain is truly a piece of history. It is made of a stiff Black composite type of felt typical of Europe during the WW II years in which felt was scarce: \"The British government introduced the Utility clothing scheme in 1942. It aimed to deal with this problem by offering consumers a range of well-designed quality and price-controlled clothes affordable for all. Both raw materials and labour had to be directed away from civilian production to ensure that the demand could be met for uniforms and the many other military uses of fabric.\" Though the felt probably not 100% wool, it shows such creativity and style, using what was available. This is one of the many outstanding conversation hats in our collection. It has been lovingly preserved among over 1300 hats we have collected for 40+ years. The white & black feather decoration ends in a puff of stiffer black feathers. There is an elastic attached to keep the hat in a tilted position, typical of the era. Quite an impressive piece of history, and in wonderful vintage condition. Mannequin not for sale.