How is a Fedora hat different from a Trilby?

How is a Fedora Hat different to a Trilby?

The answer to this often asked question is they are both Fedoras. The trilby is simply a narrowed brimmed Fedora.  

The Trilby has a shorter brim which is angled or 'snapped down' at the front and slightly turned up at the back. The trilby also has a slightly shorter crown than a typical fedora design.The classic Fedora on the other hand has a wider, flatter brim which is more traditional. 

Here are a couple of examples of a Trilby (notice the stingy brim):

The Moretti Fedora Hat

Mr Doyle Trilby Hat

Here are a couple of examples of a Classic Fedora (notice the flatter brim):

When to choose a Trilby or a Fedora Hat

The question of whether to go for a Trilby or a Fedora hat is very much about personal taste. The trick is to make the hat unique to your own style and personality. Read my blog entry 3 tips to choose the right hat for you for some helpful tips.

Some people think the Trilby is funkier than, the more formal, Fedora. To be fair, I personally prefer the fedora as I have a fairly large head and the stingy brim of the trilby doesn't quite sit right. The generous brim on the fedora hat gives the hat more balance (and lets me look mysterious when I tilt it down).

Goorin Brothers do Fedora Hats very well

Goorin Bros are our favourite hat makers at Prohibition Hats (Check out the range of Goorin bros hats). Here is a fantastic video from Goorin Bros talking about the classic snap brim Fedora hat shape and how to make it your own.



As always, if you have any comments or questions, just leave them here and I'll get back to you.

Laurie Turnbull
Founder, Prohibition Hats NZ
www.prohibitionhats.co.nz