While trends come and go, some have real staying power. Country and cowboy-inspired style, for one, has been a favorite in the southern U.S. for generations but is now also making waves in the mass market, with its influence ranging from music to clothing.
And no country-inspired look would be complete without the right hat. The two iconic varieties are the cowboy hat and the fedora, with both having a rich history, a distinctive aesthetic, and significant differences that make them unique within the realm of western style.
This article will break down the differences between these two hot accessories, explore the return of country style, and provide tips for clothing sellers as to what to include in inventories to attract fans of U.S. country aesthetics.
Table of Contents
The return of country style
Cowboy hats vs. fedoras: What are the main differences
Summary
The return of country style
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global headwear market has seen significant growth in recent years. It was estimated to be worth USD 26.50 billion in 2022 and is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% between 2023 and 2030. This figure reflects the increased demand for country-style clothing and accessories, driven by the growing popularity of country music and related fashion trends.
The influence of country music
Country music and cowboy fashion have always had a significant influence on fashion, especially in recent years. A major turning point came in 2000 when Madonna released her single “Don’t Tell Me,” which was accompanied by a music video of the superstar dancing dressed in cowboy attire.
More recently, we’ve seen Lil Nas X donning bedazzled cowboy looks, paving the way for another trendsetter to embrace western fashion, Beyoncé. In 2024, she released her entirely country album “Cowboy Carter,” a move that catapulted the style back into the spotlight and inspired a new wave of country fashion enthusiasts.
Thanks to their high social capital and influence via music videos and performances, these artists are making country style popular among an entirely new demographic.
Globally renowned designers are further bolstering the style’s popularity by combining traditional western elements with modern touches, creating unique and versatile looks.
Cowboy hats, high-waisted jeans, plaid shirts, and Western boots have become staples in the wardrobe of many, and even feature on high fashion catwalks, with designers such as Ralph Lauren and Dsquared2 presenting western-inspired collections.
Cowboy hats vs. fedoras: What are the main differences
To make the most of this trend, sellers must understand the nuances between specific clothing items. Here we’ll dive into the key differences between cowboy hats and fedoras so that you can stock the ideal items for your customers.
Origins and history
The cowboy hat originated around the late 19th century in the United States and was designed to help protect cowboys from the sun, wind, and rain while riding horseback through the “Wild West.” The most iconic model of cowboy hats is the Stetson, named after its creator, John B. Stetson, which has come to symbolize western and American culture.
The fedora hat, meanwhile, has European roots, becaming popular in the early 20th century and gaining notoriety in the 1940s and 1950s after its adoption by style icons such as Humphrey Bogart and Frank Sinatra. This hat is associated with a more refined and urban look, and can more commonly be seen in metropolitan settings and on formal occasions.
Materials and construction
Cowboy hats are usually made of wool felt, leather, or other weather-resistant materials to offer strength and durability, which are essential to protect against the harsh conditions cowboys face. Their sturdy construction allows the hat to maintain its shape even after intensive use, while a chinstrap keeps it in place even in the strongest winds.
On the contrary, fedoras are typically made of straw, cashmere, or high-quality synthetic materials and feature a lighter and more flexible construction. These characteristics make it a suitable option for daily use in urban environments, where comfort and style are a priority.
Design and structure
A high, stiff crown and a sleek, curved, wide brim characterize the cowboy hat. The flat brim can be shaped in various ways to suit personal preferences, while the crown can be pushed against the head to adapt to its shape. This design offers excellent protection against the natural elements and gives the hat its iconic look.
Generally, fedora hats have a lower crown, often featuring a crease in the center. The brim is narrower; it can still feature different shapes, but is generally less pronounced than in cowboy hats.
Functionality and use
As mentioned above, the cowboy hat is mainly designed for practical use, protecting against the sun or rain during long days outdoors. Thanks in part to this versatility, it has become a symbol of cultural identity, particularly in the context of rodeos and many southern states in the United States.
On the other hand, the fedora is more of a fashion accessory. While it may offer some protection from the sun, its primary purpose is to add a touch of class to any outfit.
Current trends
Stores wanting to ride the western-style trend will want to include a range of hats in their inventory to attract a wide range of customers. As more and more celebrities and influencers are seen wearing cowboy hats in new and creative ways, they are helping to revitalize this classic accessory.
In comparison, the fedora hat remains a timeless item for men and women. It is appreciated for its versatility and ability to accentuate any outfit.
Summary
Understanding the differences between a cowboy hat and a fedora is essential for clothing stores that want to offer their customers a diverse and fashionable selection. With its roots in western culture, the cowboy hat provides a rugged and distinctive look, perfect for those looking for a functional and iconic accessory. On the contrary, the fedora represents elegance and sophistication, ideal for those who want to elevate class their wardrobe.
With its high crown, the cowboy hat has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity under the influence of celebrities and current fashion trends. Clothing stores showcasing these wide-brimmed hats can appeal to a wide range of customers, and investing in these pieces helps to enrich a store’s inventory.
No matter whether you’re looking for cowboy hats or fedoras to complete your hat offerings, you’ll find a huge range of options on Alibaba.com.
