Derby & Bowler Hats

What's the Difference Between a Derby Hat & a Bowler Hat?

Honestly, it's just the name. Both are round hats with little brims. Derby hat is the American name and bowler hat is the British name. The only difference between the two hat styles is the name.

The derby hat ¿ the American one ¿ was first made in the United States in the 1850s and may have been named after the Derby horse race, which is in England and got its name from the Earl of Derby. The bowler hat is said to be named after the Bowler brothers, who were the chief hatters at a prominent London hat-maker in the late 1840s.

When to Wear Bowler & Derby Hats

Bowler and derby hats used to be worn by bankers and clerks and even by cowboys in the American west, but today they make fun party hats and costume hats. Oriental Trading has a stunning supply, including men's bowler hats perfect as props in a play and derby hats for women that will look amazing as photo booth props.

Wear green derby hats for St. Patrick's Day and red bowler hats for Valentine's Day. No matter the occasion, Oriental Trading has your head covered!