What a showstopper!! This large hat is made of black straw, and features a "cap" instead of a crown (see photos). The large brim surrounding the cap is downturned and has an intricate "lace" band. There is a full dotted veil & an elastic band attached to the inside to help keep the hat in place. Throughout the 1950s, ladies wore hats daily as a part of their attire as was a pair of gloves. Post war 1940’s and 1950’s saw many women choosing not to wear hats on a regular basis. To preserve its market, the millinery industry set about creating variety and extravagance. They were now touted as the essential accessory to complete the ensemble. 'Pancake’, ‘mushroom’ or ‘cart wheel’ hats sat flat atop the head reviving turn of the century styles. Lebel: NEW YORK CREATION - Adjustable - Store Label: ROYCE Exclusive The New York Dress Institute was formed in 1941 by fashion publicist Eleanor Lambert as a joint venture between the clothing manufacturers of New York City & the ILGWU. The label was created by a group of well-known designers who wanted to remain anonymous & wanted to support the New York Creation label & keep it competitive with French styles of the era. The label is small, white and blue. This is an authentic piece of fashion history! This hat is in wonderful vintage condition & has been lovingly preserved among over 1300 vintage hats we have collected for 40+ years. Feathers, straw, furs, flowers & veils are fragile, given their age. Mannequin not for sale.