Pillbox Hats

Pillbox Hat by JustcallmeRuby. Image copyright knitonthenet.

A pillbox hat is a small woman's hat with a flat crown and straight, upright sides. This style was very popular in the 1940s and was often worn with a veil. Historically they have been used as part of women's military uniform, but were popularised by the US First Lady, Jackie Kennedy in the 1960s. More recently, Carla Bruni, the First Lady of France has also been seen wearing a pillbox hat.

Pillbox Hat by JustcallmeRuby. Image copyright knitonthenet.

JustcallmeRuby's Pillbox Hat, from knitonthenet Issue 2 is a striking example of this style, which instead of being constructed from a frame and fabrics, is knitted and crocheted. Made in double knitting weight wool, is a great project to show off some vintage buttons on the side flaps.

knitonthenet reader Amy from Leicester made this lovely purple version as her Christmas hat. Using a 'mystery yarn' and some matching chenille for the side-flaps, she made her hat in just three days.

Xmas Hat by Amyjaneb on Ravelry. Image copyright Amyjaneb.

Ravelry user, Loveable created a grey version of the Pillbox Hat and used a great button which gives echoes of the military look.

Pillbox Hat by Loveable on Ravelry. Image copyright, Loveable.

If you would like to make your own Pillbox Hat, please do visit the pattern page, and don't forget to show us your finished object too by adding your images to the Flickr pool, posting them on our Facebook page or sharing them with the knitonthenet Ravelry group.

Ingrid