Cowboy Hats and More

Ever wonder how you should handle your cowboy hat or fedora in polite company? It’s simple — sort of. The old rules still apply for true gentlemen. Attention to detail will impress — especially the ladies.

Should you meet a lady in passing, tip your fedora (just slightly lift the front of yur hat off your forehead). If things go well and you stop to talk, remove your hat. Tipping your hat is a conventional gesture of politeness that can be used to say hello (howdy), goodbye, excuse me, thank you or your welcome to anyone.

Men should remove their fedora or cowboy hat when inside (okay, here’s where it gets tricky), except when in a space that could be considered like a “public street.” What does that mean? It is commonly taken to be places like lobbies, corridors and crowded elevators (but only elevators in non-residential buildings). If the elevator is in a residential building it is always appropriate for a man to remove his hat because the elevator is considered to be like a room in a house. A gentleman never keeps his hat on in the presence of ladies in a residence.

Other times when a hat should be removed include during the playing of the National Anthem, the passing of the flag, a funeral procession, outdoor weddings, dedications and during picture taking.

And yes, there is a proper way to hold your removed fedora. Only the outside of the hat should be showing– the lining should never be visible.

Well, those are some of the rules. More later. Until then remember to always wear your hat with style and good taste.