What is a Pirate Hat Called? Uncovering the Name and History of this Iconic Headwear

Ahoy matey! Are you curious about the name of the iconic hat that pirates wear? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Often seen in Halloween costumes and movies, the hat in question has a long and fascinating history. Nowadays, it may seem like a simple accessory, but it used to signify rank and function among pirates.

So, what is a pirate hat called? You might be surprised to learn that there is no one single answer to this question. There were many different styles and names for pirate hats throughout history, depending on the time period, location, and social status of the wearer. Some examples include the tricorn hat, bicorn hat, cocked hat, and slouch hat. Each of these had a unique shape and purpose, and some were even decorated with feathers, ribbons, or other embellishments.

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about the fashion choices of swashbuckling sailors, this article will take you on a journey through the fascinating world of pirate hats. From the high seas to Hollywood, we’ll explore the origins and evolution of this iconic accessory, and uncover the many different names and styles that have been associated with it over the years. So, hoist the Jolly Roger and let’s set sail on this pirate hat adventure!

History of Pirate Hats

Pirate hats, also known as tricorn hats, have become an iconic symbol of piracy in pop culture. These distinctive hats have a rich history and were primarily worn during the Golden Age of Piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The tricorn hat was originally designed as a practical piece of clothing for sailors. Its brim was folded up on three sides to allow sailors to see and work on the ship’s decks without interference. It was made of wool, felt, or leather, and could be easily folded and stored away when not in use.

Many pirates, including Blackbeard and Captain Kidd, adopted the tricorn hat as a part of their pirate attire, often adding their own unique embellishments such as feathers or jewelry. These hats gave them a menacing appearance, and many pirates wore them tilted to one side as a mark of bravado.
The pirate hat became so closely associated with piracy that it was even used on pirate flags and in popular illustrations and paintings of the time. It quickly became a symbol of piracy and rebellion.
Today, pirate hats can be found in many costume shops and are a popular accessory for Pirates of the Caribbean-themed parties or Halloween costumes.

While they may now be more associated with costume parties and pop culture, pirate hats have a fascinating history that played a key role in the legend and lore of piracy during the Golden Age of Piracy.

Types of Pirate Hats

When we think of a pirate, one of the first things that comes to mind is their iconic hat. From the classic tricorn to the more modern bandana, pirate hats have been a staple in popular culture for centuries. And while there is no definitive answer when it comes to “what is a pirate hat called?” there are a few types that are commonly associated with the infamous sea-faring thieves.

Tricorn Hat – Perhaps the most recognizable of all pirate hats, the tricorn features a three-pointed brim, often accented with a feather or ribbon. This style originated in the 17th century and was popular among sailors and military men of the time. Pirates later adopted the tricorn as a symbol of their rebellion.
Bicorne Hat – Similar to the tricorn, the bicorne features a two-pointed brim that curves upwards. This style was popular among European military officers in the 18th century and was eventually adopted by pirates as well.
Captain’s Hat – As its name implies, this style of hat was worn by pirate captains as a symbol of their authority. These hats often featured ornate embellishments such as gold braid or metallic buttons.

While these three styles are perhaps the most well-known when it comes to pirate hats, there are a few others that are worth mentioning:

Bandana – This style features a simple cloth tied around the head, often in a triangular shape. While not as ornate as some of the other styles, the bandana is practical and versatile.
Bicorn Hat – This style is similar to the bicorne, but features a flatter brim that is often wider at the front than the back. It was relatively popular among pirates in the early 18th century.
Montero Hat – This hat features a low, square crown and a wide, curved brim. It was popular among Spanish seamen and was later adopted by pirates who roamed the Caribbean.

Choosing the Right Pirate Hat

If you’re in the market for a pirate hat of your own, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the occasion – are you dressing up for Halloween or a themed party, or are you looking for an everyday accessory? Second, consider your personal style – do you prefer something ornate and flashy, or something simple and practical?

Another thing to keep in mind is the material of the hat. While many pirate hats are made from felt or other fabrics, there are also options made from leather or even metal. These materials can add an extra level of authenticity to your costume or outfit.

Style	Pros	Cons
Tricorn	– Classic and recognizable – Versatile – Great for costumes	– Can be bulky or impractical for everyday wear
Bicorne	– Simple yet elegant – Popular among military and pirate captains	– Not as well-known as the tricorn – May not be as versatile
Bandana	– Simple and affordable – Practical and versatile	– Not as ornate as other styles – May not be suitable for formal occasions

No matter which style of pirate hat you choose, it’s sure to add some swagger to your step and a touch of rebellion to your wardrobe.

Symbols and Trademarks on Pirate Hats

When one thinks of a pirate, images of a skull and crossbones on a black flag, wooden leg, and of course, a pirate hat come to mind. Pirate hats have become an icon of the golden age of piracy, and the style and design of these hats often symbolized the wearer’s rank, nationality, and crew.

The pirate hat itself was most commonly referred to as a tricorne hat due to its three-cornered design. It was made of wool, felt, or leather and had a wide brim that was folded up on three sides, creating the tricorn shape. This distinctive design allowed for easy storage in tight spaces and on crowded ships.

Symbols on Pirate Hats

Jolly Roger: The most recognizable symbol on a pirate hat is the Jolly Roger, a black flag adorned with a skull and crossbones. This symbolized the pirates’ intention to kill anyone who opposed them and struck fear into the hearts of their enemies.
Feathers: The feather on a pirate hat most often indicated the wearer’s rank. Captains would wear a white ostrich feather while other officers would wear colored feathers such as blue, red, or green.
Gold Braid: Gold braid or banding was also used to indicate rank or social status. The more braid, the higher the rank.

Trademarks on Pirate Hats

While there were no official trademarks on pirate hats, certain styles and designs became associated with specific pirates or crews. These were often passed down to members of the crew and became a source of pride and identity.

One example is the hat worn by Calico Jack Rackham, which had a skull-and-crossed-daggers design. This hat became one of the most iconic symbols of piracy and was adopted by the crew as a distinguishing mark of their captain.

Pirate	Hat Style	Symbols
Blackbeard	Black Felt Hat	Burning Fuses in the Hat’s Brim and Beard
Henry Avery	Leather Cap	Red Ribbons
Bart Roberts	Tricorne Hat	Skull and Crossbones and Hourglass

Overall, pirate hats were not just a practical piece of clothing but a symbol of piracy and the wearer’s identity. From the skull and crossbones to the color of the feather, each detail was a deliberate choice and conveyed a message to all who saw it.

Pirate Hat Styles

When we think of pirate hats, we often picture a classic tricorne hat with the distinct three-cornered style. However, pirates wore a variety of hat styles that evolved over time. Here are some of the most popular pirate hat styles:

Tricorne Hat – This classic hat style is the most recognizable pirate hat. It has three corners and is typically made of leather or felt. The brim is folded up on three sides, and a feather or ribbon is often added for decoration.
Bicorne Hat – The bicorne hat is similar to the tricorne but has only two corners. This style was popular among pirates in the 17th century, and it had a low crown and wide brim. It is often associated with famous pirates such as Blackbeard.
Musical Note Hat – This unique hat style was popular among French pirates in the early 18th century. It was shaped like a musical note and made of black felt. The brim was turned up on one side, and a gold ribbon was added for decoration.

In addition to these classic hat styles, pirates also wore a variety of caps, hats, and headscarves. These included:

Sailor Cap – This cap was made of wool and had a small brim. It was commonly worn by sailors and pirates alike.
Bandana – A bandana was a square piece of cloth that could be tied around the head. Pirates often used bandanas to keep their hair out of their face during battle.
Tri-corn with a Cockade – This style is similar to the classic tricorne hat but has an added ornament called a cockade. The cockade was typically a ribbon or badge that was pinned to the hat for decoration.

The Pirate Hat Evolution

As piracy evolved over time, so did the style of pirate hats. Early pirates wore hats that were functional and durable, such as the wide-brimmed hat worn by Spanish conquistadors. However, as pirates became more infamous and their stories became legends, their hat styles became more elaborate and decorative.

The classic tricorne hat became the most iconic pirate hat, but pirates also wore other styles that were popular during their time. Later pirates, such as the notorious Blackbeard, often wore more elaborate and intimidating hats to strike fear into their victims.

Hat Style	Description
Tricorne Hat	The classic pirate hat with three corners and a folded-up brim.
Bicorne Hat	A two-cornered hat with a wide brim and low crown. Often associated with Blackbeard.
Musical Note Hat	A black felt hat shaped like a musical note. Popular among French pirates.
Sailor Cap	A wool cap with a small brim. Commonly worn by sailors and pirates.
Bandana	A square piece of cloth that could be tied around the head. Used to keep hair out of the face during battle.
Tri-corn with a Cockade	A tricorne hat with an added ornament called a cockade. The cockade was typically a ribbon or badge.

Overall, the style of a pirate’s hat was an important aspect of their image and reputation. Today, pirate hats are still popular for costumes and Halloween, and the classic tricorne hat remains an iconic symbol of piracy.

Famous Pirates and their Hats

Pirates are popular figures in history and popular culture, known for their unique fashion and accessories, including their hats. Here are some famous pirates and the hats they wore:

Blackbeard: One of the most notorious pirates, Blackbeard was known for his long, black beard and tricorne hat.
Captain Kidd: Another infamous pirate, Captain Kidd was known for his wide-brimmed hat and white feather.
Calico Jack: This pirate was known for his colorful wardrobe, including his trademark striped hat.

Many pirates had their own unique style that set them apart from others. Some wore simple, practical hats while others adorned themselves with more elaborate headwear.

If you’re interested in learning more about pirate hats, check out this table that outlines some common types:

Type of Hat	Description
Tricorne	A hat with three points that was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was often made out of black or brown felt or leather.
Bicorn	A hat with two points that was popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was commonly made out of black silk or beaver fur.
Wide-brimmed Hat	A hat with a wide brim that provided protection from the sun. It was often made out of straw or canvas.
Bandana	A piece of cloth worn around the head. Pirates often wore bandanas as a way to keep their hair out of their face.

Whether they wore a simple bandana or an elaborate tricorne hat, pirate headwear remains an iconic symbol of these seafaring bandits.

The Role of Pirate Hats in Pop Culture

The pirate hat is a classic staple of pirate attire, and for good reason. Not only does it serve a practical purpose in protecting the eyes and face from the harsh sun and salty sea spray, but it also adds to the overall swashbuckling image of pirates. In pop culture, pirate hats have played a significant role in shaping the image of pirates for generations. Here are some of the ways that pirate hats have been portrayed in popular culture:

As a symbol of authority: In some pirate movies and TV shows, the captain of the ship is often distinguished by his or her elaborate hat, which serves as a symbol of their authority and leadership.
As a fashion statement: Pirate hats have also been used as a way to make a fashion statement. In many fictional portrayals of pirates, the hat is often adorned with feathers, ribbons, or other decorative elements to make it stand out and draw attention to the wearer.
As a way to hide identity: Pirates often used their hats as a way to conceal their identity when boarding other ships or entering ports. By pulling their hats down over their eyes, they could remain incognito and avoid detection.

In addition to these common portrayals, pirate hats have also been the subject of numerous legends and myths. For example, some believe that Blackbeard wore a hat with burning candles on it, which would strike fear into the hearts of his enemies. While this may not be entirely accurate, it illustrates the way that pirate hats have become intertwined with the mythology of pirates.

Overall, the pirate hat has played an important role in shaping the image of pirates in pop culture. Whether it’s as a symbol of authority, a fashion statement, or a way to conceal identity, the pirate hat has become an iconic representation of the pirate lifestyle.

DIY Pirate Hat Making

Creating a pirate hat from scratch is not only fun but also allows you to customize it to your liking. Here are some steps to help you make your own pirate hat:

Step 1: Gather materials – You will need black craft foam, a glue gun, scissors, elastic band, and gold trim, as well as any additional accessories you want to add such as feathers or beads.
Step 2: Cut the foam – Cut a large circle out of the foam for the brim of the hat. Then, cut a smaller circle for the top of the hat. Finally, cut a long strip for the band of the hat.
Step 3: Assemble the hat – Glue the smaller circle to the center of the larger circle. Then, attach the strip of foam around the base of the smaller circle to form the band of the hat.
Step 4: Add the trim – Use the glue gun to attach the gold trim to the band of the hat and the brim of the hat.
Step 5: Add any extra accessories – Finally, add any feathers, beads, or other decorations to complete the look of your pirate hat.

More Ideas for Pirate Hats

If you are looking for more inspiration for your pirate hat, why not try out some of these ideas:

Accessorize with a skull and crossbones or Jolly Roger flag.
Use different colored foam or fabrics to create a unique look.
Add a feather, beaded tassel, or other embellishment to the brim of the hat.
Experiment with different styles of hats, such as tricorn or bicorne hats.
Use a stiff, structured material such as cardboard or felt to create a more durable hat.

Pirate Hat Making Resources

Here are some online resources to help you create the perfect pirate hat:

Material	Cost	Availability
Black Craft Foam	$5 per sheet	Available at most craft stores
Glue Gun	$5 – $20	Available at most hardware or craft stores
Elastic Band	$1 – $5 per yard	Available at most fabric or craft stores
Gold Trim	$3 – $10 per yard	Available at most fabric or craft stores

With these resources and ideas, you will be able to create a one-of-a-kind pirate hat that is perfect for cosplay, Halloween, or just for fun! Happy crafting!

What is a pirate hat called?

Q: What is the traditional pirate hat called?
A: The traditional pirate hat is called a tricorne (tri-cornered) hat, also known as a three-cornered hat.

Q: What makes a pirate hat different from other hats?
A: Pirate hats are often embellished with feathers, ribbons, or other decorations. They also feature a wide brim and a distinctive shape that helps them stand out from other hats.

Q: Why did pirates wear tricorne hats?
A: Tricorne hats were popular during the 18th century, which is the same time period when pirates were active. Pirates likely wore them because they were fashionable at the time, but the brim also helped protect them from the sun and rain.

Q: Are all pirate hats the same?
A: No, there are many different styles of pirate hats. Some have more elaborate decoration, while others have a simpler design. However, all pirate hats tend to have a similar shape and wide brim.

Q: Do modern-day pirates still wear tricorne hats?
A: Modern-day pirates typically do not wear tricorne hats, as they are not practical for their activities. Instead, they may wear other types of hats, such as baseball caps or bandanas.

Q: Can I buy a tricorne hat today?
A: Yes, tricorne hats are still available for purchase. They are often sold as part of a costume or for historical reenactments. Many specialty hat retailers also carry tricorne hats.

Q: Is there a specific color for pirate hats?
A: No, pirate hats can come in a variety of colors. However, black is the most common color associated with pirate hats.

Closing Thoughts

Thank you for taking the time to learn about what a pirate hat is called. Hopefully, this article has helped expand your knowledge on the subject. Whether you’re a pirate enthusiast or just someone curious about different types of hats, we appreciate your interest. Be sure to check back for more fun facts and interesting articles in the future!