Oliver Brown's Top Hat Restoration Guide
As the official top hat licensee of Royal Ascot for the past eight years, and the proud owner of the world’s largest collection of antique silk top hats, Oliver Brown is the ultimate destination for everything you could possibly need in the world of top hats.
A top hat is more than just a stylish accessory; it's a symbol of elegance, tradition, and refinement. Whether you're preparing for race day, a wedding, or a formal event, maintaining the shape and structure of your top hat is crucial. Over time, even the finest top hats can show signs of wear, however, proper care and expert repairs can restore them to their former glory.
Understanding the different components of a top hat is essential for proper care and repairs. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts:
The Crown
The main body of the top hat. This is the most visible part and where most of the structure and shape reside.
Merino Wool
The fine material used inside the hat that provides comfort and supports the structure.
Leather Lining and Slip
These parts provide comfort and shape.
Brim
A separate piece from the crown that plays a vital role in shaping the overall look of the hat.
Binding
A trim that connects the crown and the brim.
Band and Bow
Both decorative and functional, the band and bow serve to further hold the crown and brim together while adding a personal touch to the hat’s overall aesthetic. These are often customised for different occasions, for example, you might wear a morning band for funerals or race days, while a band and bow tends to be worn for parties.
Common Issues & Repairs
While top hats are built to last, they can experience damage over time. Here are a list of the most common repairs we handle:
Damage to the Binding, Band and Bow
These areas tend to suffer the most wear and tear, especially after prolonged use. The binding can fray, the band may loosen, and the bow might lose its shape. Fortunately, our repair experts can expertly restore or replace these components, ensuring your hat looks as good as new.
Damage to the Body of the Hat - Reblocking
Sometimes, the main structure of the top hat can become misshapen due to improper storage or wear. Reblocking is the process of restoring the hat's original shape and structure. Whether it’s a slight dent or an overall misshapen form, we can reshape the body of your hat to perfection.
Discolouration of the Brim
Many people unknowingly place their top hat brim down, which can cause wear and discolouration to the top part of the hat. To avoid this, always store your hat properly to preserve its condition. If your brim has become discoloured, our expert repair services have a mixture which can darken it and restore its original colour.
Resizing and Reshaping your hat
One common question we receive is from those who may have inherited an ancestral top hat and find that the hat doesn’t fit quite right - many ask if we can resize or reshape the hat. The short answer is no, however, in some instances we are able to replace the leather lining for a slightly thinner one which helps create some space in the hat (typically around a quarter of a size).
As for reshaping the hat, this is possible if there's some extra space in the hat to begin with. Expert care can help restore the hat’s shape to ensure it fits comfortably.
Proper care and timely repairs can ensure that your top hat lasts for many years, retaining its elegance and functionality. Whether you’re preparing for a high-profile event or just want to preserve your hat for future generations, professional restoration can make all the difference. Visit our Top Hat Refurbishment page here.
Watch a video of our founder, Kristian Ferner Robson, sharing the fascinating history of the silk top hat, explains why they are no longer made, and offers guidance on care, fit, and etiquette. From styling tips to why larger sizes command a premium, this is essential viewing for anyone preparing for Royal Ascot. Watch the video here.
If you’re facing any of these issues with your top hat, our skilled repair team can tackle virtually any top hat problem. Contact us or come and visit us in any of our stores to find out more.
Visit our stores here.
