Smoking Caps

The smoking cap – a nod to history and cozy headpiece

A smoking cap is a type of headwear that was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It was typically worn by men while smoking tobacco pipes or cigars and was designed to keep the head warm while absorbing smoke and preventing hair and clothing from smelling of tobacco.

Velvet smoking cap – men’s tasseled smoker hats

The smoking cap is usually made from soft, comfortable materials like velvet, silk, or wool and features a tassel or pom-pom on the top. It is typically a close-fitting cap, often with a visor or a folded-up brim. Some smoking caps also have a long, decorative tassel on the back that hangs down from the cap.

Tradition and history

Smoking caps were often decorated with intricate patterns, embroidery, or monograms, and were a popular accessory among fashionable men in the 19th and early 20th centuries. They were often worn as part of a gentleman’s evening attire and were considered a symbol of sophistication and luxury.
Today, smoking caps are not as common as they once were, but they are still available from specialty clothing retailers (like Baturina Homewear) and are sometimes worn as part of historical reenactments or costume events.