Flat caps

Classic caps with character and tradition

Flat caps are far more than just a functional accessory: they epitomise a history of style steeped in tradition and stand for British nonchalance, timeless elegance and cultivated nonchalance.

The characteristic peaked cap has accompanied men from different social classes for centuries and has established itself from a simple everyday cap to a stylish statement.

Made from fine materials such as tweed, wool, cotton or linen, flat caps are characterised by their flat, close-fitting shape and the short, usually fixed peak. Especially in combination with classic jackets, tweed jackets or quilted waistcoats, flat caps have a style-defining effect and lend the overall look a charming British touch.

The history of the flat cap - from work cap to fashion classic

The roots of the flat cap go back to 14th century England, where it initially served as practical headwear for the rural population. In 1571, King Henry VIII of England even passed a law requiring all male citizens to wear woollen caps on Sundays and public holidays - an attempt to boost domestic wool production. The flat cap thus became an integral part of everyday British dress for centuries.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the British upper classes also discovered the advantages of the flat cap. It became a stylish accessory, especially for golf, country outings and country estates. To this day, the flat cap is an integral part of British men's fashion and enjoys international popularity.

Different names and shapes of the flat cap

Depending on the region and material variant, the flat cap is known by different names. In Great Britain, it is often referred to as a flat cap,cap, driver cap or country cap. In Ireland and the USA, the term Ivy Cap or Driving Cap is also common.

Different styles can be distinguished in terms of shape:

• Classic flat cap: The original, flat-fitting peaked cap with a narrow, firmly sewn-in peak. Usually made of tweed or wool, ideal for autumn and winter.
• Newsboy cap (balloon cap): Recognisable by its more voluminous cut and button-covered peak. Classic cap of the British newsboys of the early 20th century, today a fashion statement.

Each of these shapes can be perfectly combined with classic and sporty-elegant outfits and gives the wearer a stylish, cultivated look.

Flat caps in classic hunting clothing

The flat cap has been firmly anchored in English hunting culture since the 19th century and is considered an indispensable accessory for traditional hunting clothing. Made from robust Harris tweed, strong woollen cloth or waxed cotton, it offers reliable protection from wind and weather on social hunts and in the countryside. Classic check patterns such as glencheck, houndstooth or herringbone are typical and emphasise the traditional character.

Whether for a driven shoot, a morning stroll through the fields or as part of the outfit for a morning walk with the dog - the flat cap combines functional utility with cultivated elegance.

Buy high-quality flat caps online at The GunDog Affair

Discover a carefully curated selection of fine flat caps in various shapes, materials and designs in The GunDog Affaironline shop. Whether classic in Harris Tweed, sporty in waxed cotton or timelessly elegant - our collection combines craftsmanship, stylish design and first-class wearing comfort.

In addition to renowned traditional brands such as Laksen, Purdey,Alan Paine and Barbour, we exclusively stock flat caps under our own brand The GunDog Affair, manufactured in one of the oldest and last remaining cap factories in Germany. This edition combines classic British design with German craftsmanship and stands for excellent materials, perfect fit and long-lasting quality.