The Homburg: the ultimate in gentlemanly headwear

There are a number of men who frequently appear on our website. And for good reason. The likes of Steve McQueen, James Dean, Eddie Redmayne and, of course, Sir Winston Churchill. These are the men who made inroads, pushed boundaries, set trends and became icons of their respective eras. Little wonder, therefore, that we, and other magazines and sites, regularly make references to their style, manner and personality.

Apart from his wartime achievements, Churchill is remembered for a host of other traits: his quips, his speeches, his cigars, his wit, and his iconic Homburg. Crafted from smooth rabbit felt, the curled brim is trimmed with grosgrain ribbon, while the crown is finished with a band and bow. When a hat is worn right there are few things more gentlemanly. Call us old fashioned, but we still rejoice in the tipping of a brim, or even full removal when a woman enters a room.

Lock & Co has long set the bar when it comes to the ultimate hats for gentlemen. So much so that a postcard once reached their door bearing nothing but the simple address: The best hatters in the world, London. A hat, however, isn’t an accessory that every gentleman can pull off. A hat of this prestige takes a worthy wearer – a man of style, confidence and impeccable etiquette. Little surprise it suited Robert Anthony Eden so well.

The principles of this revered company have remained stalwart: no matter the customer, what they have all come to expect from Lock & Co. is the best. These principles were established at the beginning by founder James Lock and continue to be upheld by the 7th generation of the family, who still run the business from the same shop at No. 6 St. James’ Street today. Two royal warrants attest to our commitment to quality that is trusted.

As a result, Lock and Co.’s hats have overseen the Battle of Trafalgar (worn by Nelson) and Churchill’s wedding. Oscar Wilde was also an avid fan. Not a bad resumé at all. There will surely be many more occasions to come where Lock & Co. play a part.

This Christmas, we recommend: the Homburg – £275