The bowler or derby hat was introduced in the 1850’s. The derby hats importance is that it was worn by virtually every class of society. This is the first hat credited for being mass produced and priced to meet everyone's budget. The derby hat replaced the top hat in the late nineteenth century as the most popular hat for men, and remained popular for almost seventy years until their decline in the 1920’s to the fedora.

The derby hat came in many different styles from the low-crown to the stingy brim. The bowler started out as a protective hat for coachmen and gamekeepers. They were stiffened and protected against branches and other obstacles, while riding on horses. Eventually the derby style caught on and became fashionable. The term Bowler is an English name for the hat. The Americans started calling the hat a derby when the Earl of Derby wore the hat at the Derby races.