The cap through the ages: from sportswear to personal accessory

There was a time when virtually all men, regardless of social class, wore either a hat or a flat cap whenever they stepped outside. Has the modern cap replaced the hat as the go-to headwear? Why do men feel such a strong desire to cover their heads? We delve into the history of the cap, its original purpose, various styles, and its role as a fashion staple in today's society.

The Cap's Path From Work Wear to the Sports World

Farmer in field and Roger Moris circa 1960. Photo: Alamy Stock Photo

Originally, the cap was a practical work garment, made of coarse fabric such as tweed or wool in a design similar to the classic flat cap. It was used to protect the head from the elements and was popular with laborers, farmers, and others who worked outdoors.

The modern six-panel cap, as we know it, dates back to the 19th century. It began to spread among baseball teams, such as the Brooklyn Excelsiors, who wore its predecessor made of wool. Later, the Knickerbockers Base Ball Club of New York (the predecessors to the Knicks) adopted it, becoming the first baseball team with a full baseballuniform. The practical cotton baseball cap then gained popularity, eventually replacing the workers' old wool caps.

The Cap as a Personal Accessory

In the late 1940s and 1950s, the cap started to transcend its sports origins. American servicemen wore caps during their leisure time, while young men were captivated by Elvis Presley's music. Perhaps the rock 'n' roll ethos influenced the fashion landscape; as rock 'n' roll gained prominence and hats fell out of favor in men's fashion, people gravitated towards a sportier, more youthful, and carefree style.

Whether it's a cap or a hat, headwear has become a staple in men's wardrobes, as men throughout history have sought to shield their heads from various elements—whether it's the sun, rain, or their surroundings. Perhaps it's to conceal involuntary hair loss or because wearing a cap allows one to express themselves more freely.

During the 70s and 80s, brands began using caps as advertising tools, initially among farmers and vehicle companies, popularising the trucker cap in those circles. The front typically featured a logo representing a brand, a baseball team, a slogan or other personal details. Today, the cap has evolved from being an advertising pillar for brands to a form of personal branding. The embroidered or printed logo serves as a personal statement, signalling the wearers beliefs or who they support, whether it's a N.Y. Yankee cap to show team loyalty or a cap with flames to make a bold statement.

Three Iconic Caps

Each type of cap has its own unique characteristics and uses. Here are three iconic cap models:

Baseball Cap: An iconic six-panel cap worn by baseball players since the late 19th century. The most iconic baseball cap is worn by the New York Yankees players, featuring a simple design with a navy blue visor and a white "NY" logo on the front. This cap has become a symbol of baseball and has been embraced by countless celebrities and fans worldwide.

The Trucker Cap: The trucker cap is known for its mesh panel on the back. It originated in truck driver culture in the United States, but since the 2000s has become a popular fashion accessory all over the world. It has been worn by countless celebrities, including Ashton Kutcher and Pharrell Williams who popularised the cap as a symbol of streetwear culture.

Flat Cap: The flat cap is a classic cap with a rounded shape and a button on the top and is usually made of tweed or wool. It has become a symbol of British classic style and has been worn by many celebrities and fashion icons, not least Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders. Also known as the Baker Boy cap or the Newsboy Cap.

The Cap Today

Today, the cap has become an essential part of the fashion world and is worn globally as a means to express personal style, transcending social class boundaries. Some wear caps to effortlessly manage their hair, while others integrate them into their identity. Whether for functional reasons like shielding from the sun or as a statement of personal flair, the cap serves as both a practical and aesthetic accessory.

Caps have become ubiquitous in various settings—work, school, leisure, and even some formal occasions. In the past, wearing a cap in places like classrooms or workplaces was often frowned upon, except for specific roles like farming or fast-food service. However, contemporary attitudes towards caps have become more accepting and relaxed. Could this newfound acceptance even extend to wearing caps in church?