Boater hat

An iconic hat with allure and tradition

The Boater hat is one of the most recognisable designs in hat history. With its flat cap and its stiff brim, it has embodied for over a century an elegance that is at once structured, light and timeless.

Woman wearing the capeline hat, marion violin in velvet felt with a black blazer by Maison Fabienne Delvigne
Mannequin wearing the Fraline Panama hat in white with a blue ribbon

The Boater, a summer emblem

Traditionally made in natural straw, the Boater hat It is distinguished by its geometric shape and its ribbon that highlights the base of the crown. This structured silhouette immediately brings a touch of elegance and character.

Over time, the boater has become a Iconic hat, worn by women at summer events or social gatherings.

Even today, it remains associated with timeless elegance and a certain art of living.

The History of the Straw Boater Hat

Appeared at the end of the 19th century, the boater hat gets its name from boaters, These oarsmen who carried it during their boat trips. Quickly adopted by the elegant society of the time, it became a symbol of summer refinement and established itself as an essential accessory for outdoor outfits.

Mannequin man wearing a top hat and the woman a cloche hat
Mannequin wearing a white Cavallo boater hat accompanied by a horse

The Boater Hat, a timeless grace

Both graphic and chic, the Boater hat remains a strong staple in both women's and men's wardrobes. It transcends trends while retaining its unique character.

Faithful to the signature of the Maison Fabienne Delvigne, each creation is designed to reveal the personality of the wearer.

*Le Canotier* reimagined by Maison Fabienne Delvigne

The Maison Fabienne Delvigne revisit the Boater hat with a contemporary approach where architectural shapes, precise volumes, and light materials meet.

Each Boater It is designed to enhance the silhouette and bring a unique touch of finesse. The fabrics are carefully selected to ensure comfort, lightness and refinement.

Thanks to its artisanal expertise, Maison offers boater hats with wide or narrow brims, suitable for both Summer events, ceremonies, horse races or garden parties, where this iconic hat naturally finds its place.

Woman wearing a collapsible straw hat for the sun, in light to dark beige colours
Bride wearing a natural boater hat with a bridal veil
Bride wearing a natural boater hat with a bridal veil
Custom-made
Woman wearing a small, floppy, powder-pink boater hat with a floral pattern – Emma – Maison Fabienne Delvigne
Woman wearing a small, floppy, powder-pink boater hat with a floral pattern – Emma – Maison Fabienne Delvigne
590 €
woman wearing a Panama sun hat with a pink ribbon and a jewel
woman wearing a Panama sun hat with a pink ribbon and a jewel
590 €
Mannequin wearing a natural straw wide-brimmed hat
Mannequin wearing a natural straw wide-brimmed hat
Custom-made

Frequently asked questions about the Canotier

What is a boater hat?

The Boater is a stiff straw hat, with a flat crown and flat brim, traditionally adorned with a black ribbon. Popular during the Belle Époque, it was initially worn by sailors, then adopted by Parisians for outdoor leisure activities (boating), becoming a symbol of summer elegance.

What is the difference between a boater hat and a skimmer hat?

The "skimmer" is simply one of many English names for the boater, that stiff, flat-crowned straw hat that was very popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Why do people wear straw hats?

The boater hat has traversed history for various reasons, combining practical utility with stylish elegance. It is worn for its unique blend of functionality (sun protection) and retro-chic style, evoking holidays, the Belle Époque, and timeless charm.

Does Maison Fabienne Delvigne deliver outside Belgium?

Yes. Maison Fabienne Delvigne delivers throughout Europe, including to France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Customers who are unable to travel to Brussels for fittings can benefit from a remote consultation service (via video) and secure delivery. On-site appointments are also available on request for large orders.

Can bespoke hats be ordered for the guests at the same time as the bride's?

Absolutely. Maison Fabienne Delvigne regularly offers to create coordinated outfits for the bride and her guests — the mother of the bride, bridesmaids and close family members. This approach ensures perfect visual harmony during the ceremony and in the photographs. A preferential rate applies to group orders.

Create your custom canoe

A unique creation, designed especially for you.
Book an appointment and let a hat be created exclusively for you.

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Maison Fabienne Delvigne
- By appointment from Monday to Friday -
8 André Fauchille Street,
1150 Brussels

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