The Cassandra hat is an 18" low crowned (5" wide/1" deep crown) straw called a Bergère. Popular from the mid 1700's to early 1800's, it was representative of the simpler styles and fashions that were coming into vogue, beginning with Marie Antoinette's famous Shepherdess experiment. This style is sometimes called a "portrait hat". A version of it can seen in this portrait of Lady Elizabeth Foster (1786, by Angelica Kauffmann). It is a fantastic style for colonial events, as well as Regency garden parties. The wide brim kept this style popular for decades.
This hat arrives plain, ready for your trimming. I have included some sample ideas to get your creative juices flowing!
