The Original Derby Hat — Built for the Races, Made to Last

The bowler hat and the derby race share more than a name. The same hat that became a fixture of British heritage culture has long been the silhouette of choice at race days — from Epsom Derby to country meets — where dressing correctly is part of the occasion. This is that hat.

A Hat With a Specific Origin Story

Thomas and William Bowler produced the first example in 1849 for Lock and Co. of London, acting on a commission from Edward Coke who needed a lower-profile protective hat for his gamekeepers than the top hat then in use. The dome crown that results from that commission is the shape that 175 years of subsequent production have kept unchanged.

Heritage Construction, Race Day Ready

This version from Novella Hats is crafted from premium wool felt with the dome crown and tightly curled brim of the English original. A grosgrain band at the crown base and a satin lining inside deliver the comfort and quality that a hat at this price should provide. The construction follows the heritage specification that has made the bowler the most recognisable British hat silhouette in the world — and one of the most appropriate choices for a day at the races.

Why the Bowler Works at the Derby

Race days call for a hat that makes a statement without trying too hard. The bowler does exactly that — it signals knowledge of British dress tradition, sits securely through a long day outdoors, and holds its shape in the kind of weather that race days in this country tend to produce. It is the hat that says something specific about the person wearing it, and the English wool felt version is the one worth wearing if you want that statement made correctly.

Novella Hats has sold over 10,000 hats with a Trustpilot Great rating. At £39.99 with free US shipping on qualifying orders, the English wool felt bowler is the heritage specification hat — for the races and everywhere else.

Sizing Info

  • Small: 55cm (6 7/8)
  • Medium: 57cm (7 1/4)
  • Large: 59cm (7 1/2)
  • X-Large: 61cm (7 3/4)