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The docker cap – a hat with character

Topic overview

From docker to fashion muse – a historic hat
In detail: brands and materials
How to style: a real all-rounder
Smitten, engaged and docked

What is a docker hat? At first glance, this hat doesn’t reveal all that much about itself. But it’s worth taking a second look because docker hats have a lot to offer. Starting with their exciting past through to their many talents and functions. The diversity of options make this solid worker hat into the ideal partner for every occasion.

Features of the docker cap

close-fitting
wide, firm turn-up
ears and nape left uncovered
low, flat profile
no peak

Also known as: Harbour cap, docker cap, docker hat, fisherman beanie, thief's cap, roll-up beanie

From docker to fashion muse – a historic hat

A long time ago, no one would have thought the docker hat would become such a trendy item. Because this accessory, which is so popular today, has a past that is primarily functional.

From the docks to the heads of the people

In the 18th century, when all freight was still transported across the seas by ship, the docker cap was the classic item of headgear for seamen, sailors, and especially the London’s East End’s dockers. To cope with the physically demanding job of loading and unloading cargo in all weather conditions, the dock workers and sailors wore a docker hat.

The development of the steamship increased the transport of cargo and consequently gave rise to the popularity of the docker cap. The increasing exchange of goods required more staff to load and unload the ship’s cargo. So-called ’stevedores’ were employed and wore the round docker cap to protect their heads.

A hat gone astray

Whether in Liverpool, London, or Glasgow, the docker cap had become the symbol of dockers and stevedores across the British Isles. As a distinguishing feature, however, this wasn’t a good thing. Because thieves used the famous hats to disguise themselves as stevedores to steal valuable cargo. The accessory quickly became associated with the criminal underworld, which brought the hat into disrepute. It is still sometimes called a ’thief cap’, even to this day.

A second chance

At the end of the 20th century, however, this infamous cap underwent an image makeover. It has now frequently been seen on the big screen in films. Hollywood stars drew new and above all positive attention to the docker cap. The hat turned into an iconic fashion item and is now worn by every generation and level of society.

In detail: brands and materials

Material

Various materials of the best quality are used to produce these high-quality hats. So, this small hat has lots to offer.

In the spring and summer, docker caps provide UV protection from the sun and are stylish accessories to pair with summer outfits. Thin and lightweight fabrics such as cotton are the order of the day. These keep your head a comfortable temperature and reliably keep harmful UV rays at bay.

In the autumn and winter, the focus is on protection against the cold. Waterproof and weather-resistant materials such as leather, merino wool and fleece provide comprehensive protection. Whether you’re out skiing, hiking or enjoying a snowball fight – your head stays well-protected when you’re wearing a docker cap.

SEASON	MATERIAL
Spring/summer	Cotton, linen, silk, other
Autumn/winter	Leather, various wool types, fleece, felt

Brands

Docker hats are now available from various manufacturers. Famous brands such as Hammaburg and Stetson, as well as our own brands Lipodo and Lierys offer an exclusive selection of these fashionable accessories.

How to style: a real all-rounder

Casual styles and guaranteed coolness. It doesn’t take much to style a docker cap. Thanks to its simple finish, docker hat is very easy and versatile to combine with outfits. One thing is for sure: it never gets boring!

Simple but bold

Do you prefer things to be simple? No problem. Because you can make more restrained outfits eye-catching with docker caps in bright colours or with patterns such as checks or stripes. Put on your jeans, T-shirt and colourful docker cap and your cool look is complete.

Casual and stylish

But this hat is an eye-catcher, even in less striking and more muted colours. Whether it’s a sporty summer look or an elegant winter style, this versatile hat is the ideal choice. Long coat, boots, knitted docker cap – and your refined look is complete. This all-rounder is a stylish yet casual addition to any style – it certainly will be to yours.

Brown men's docker cap made of sheepskin

Smitten, engaged and docked

Have we convinced you? Our large range offers something for everyone, men and women alike. Take a look for yourself and find the right docker cap for you. Fall in love at Hatshopping.co.uk.