Cowboy Hat Do's and Don'ts

Can anyone wear a cowboy hat?

There are few things as symbolic as the western cowboy hat. Many people who live in the Western U.S. wear them. And many don’t. And millions of people who don’t live in the West wear them, too!

The big question is, “Is it okay to wear a cowboy hat if you’re not a working cowboy (or cowgirl)?”

The answer is: Absolutely!

The cowboy hat is often generically referred to as a Stetson, after John B. Stetson, who created this legendary hat. Today, there are lots of hat-making companies, each with their own trademark styles, quality, materials used, and workmanship.

The cowboy hat is a fashion statement. It symbolizes Western culture. Like I said, anyone can wear a cowboy (or cowgirl) hat. But true cowboys expect respect for cowboy hat etiquette (especially if you’re out West).

Here are a few pointers for men and women:

• Always remove your hat when entering a building (like someone’s home or a public

  building). Keep it off while indoors except if you visit a place where they are commonly

  accepted indoors.

• Always remove your hat during The National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, or prayers

  (including inside a church).

• Remove your hat when meeting someone for the first time.

• Remove your hat by grasping the crown, not the rim. After it’s removed, hold it with the

  inside facing down (so nobody can see the inside lining). If not holding the hat, it should

  be placed on a hat rack/hook and should never be placed on a table.

And what is the biggest rule about a cowboy hat?

You may have guessed it—never touch or try on another person’s hat without asking first. A cowboy hat is a very personal belonging.

More on cowboy hats in forthcoming posts!

I hope you enjoyed the read. Any thoughts or comments? I’d love to hear from you!

Rebecca

#cowboyhat, #cowboy, #west