There was an article published a while back in the New York Times written by Jacob Gallagher that referred to the flat caps as a “notably tricky hat.” He also said that not everyone can pull them off. Now I know we may be a wee bit biased seeing that a good part of our Biddy Murphy business comes from selling authentic Irish flat caps, we still want to offer another opinion on the topic. You can’t say a cap falls flat by looking at one style.
Do you ever wonder about what makes a flat cap flat? Are you new to the world of Irish caps and need tips on how to wear the classic style? This article explores the history, styles, and enduring appeal of Irish hats, particularly those offered by Biddy Murphy.
The History of the Flat Cap
Let’s start with the most popular cap-the flat cap. This cap is a classic with a history of incredible and evolving style. Today, the flat cap is a wardrobe staple for men and women of all ages.
Flat caps can be traced back to the 14th century Northern England when it was typically called a “bonnet.” In the late 1500s, English Parliament was enacted to stimulate the consumption of domestic wool and general trade. In this act, it was required that all males over the age of six, were to wear woolen caps on Sundays and holidays or pay a daily fine. Flat caps became wildly popular in the 19th century in both Ireland and England among working-class men.
Today, flat Caps remain a timeless style accessory, perfectly finishing off a casual or more formal wardrobe. Well-known celebrities, such as actor Ryan Gosling, John Hamm and Brad Pitt, wear these very stylish caps.
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Types of Irish Caps
Style is indeed unique to the individual.
Driving Cap
The driving cap - also known as a touring cap, gatsby cap, or a scally cap - is the flat cap’s more shapely brother. The driving cap is named after men who drove wealthy folks around in the 19th and 20th centuries. The hat is designed for both professionalism and comfort, as these drivers would wear them day after day. Now, modern wearers get to reap the benefits of this well-designed cap.
Newsboy Cap
The newsboy cap is named after the young working-class boys who handed out newspapers on the streets of London and Dublin in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Similar to the flat cap, the newsboy features eight individual panels brought together with a button at the top, giving it a domed appearance.
The newsboy cap features eight individual panels brought together with a button at the top which gives it a domed appearance. We recognize and appreciate that how you wear your newsboy cap is up to your unique sense of style. As with the flat cap, please don’t wear your newsboy backwards!
Key Features of Biddy Murphy Caps
Biddy Murphy celebrates and honors the Irish heritage, just as Biddy did for more than 90 years. We connect you to the beauty and traditions of Ireland through our collection of premium clothing, jewelry, and home goods.
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- AUTHENTIC IRISH CAP: Made by our maker-partner in Co. Tipperary, Ireland. This Peaky Blinders hat was inspired by history and has exceptional Irish craftsmanship
- QUALITY IRISH MATERIALS: Made with Irish wool tweed, woven in a traditional herringbone pattern and features an 8 panel design
- TIMELESS STYLE & DESIGN: The Peaky Blinders hat is the traditional Irish tweed newsboy style cap that looks great on both men and women
We know that Biddy would approve of our authentic Irish goods as she was one of the smartest dressers in all of County Tipperary. She had a keen sense of style and appreciated quality crafted clothing. We honor Biddy’s spirit through all of our products from the handcrafted weaving of Irish fabrics and natural knits in our caps, blankets, and sweaters.
How Do I Style An Irish Flat Cap? - The Sharp Dressed Gent
Biddy Murphy's Commitment to Quality and Heritage
When you buy from Biddy Murphy you can take pride knowing: Everything we carry is crafted in Ireland. We are committed to supporting the traditional crafts and talented Irish artisans. You won't find anything made in China here. There is a real difference!
We are a small, family run, Irish owned business--that's our CEO, Ward Gahan at right and his daughter, Elizabeth below. Ward originally hails from Co. Tipperary but now lives in Michigan.
Irish Hospitality is the cornerstone of our customer experience. We offer a "Delight or Make it Right Guarantee. You'll be delighted or we'll make it right. We offer FREE shipping, FREE exchanges and FREE returns, every day!
Spotlight on Featured Caps
You can’t say a cap falls flat by looking at one style. Here are some featured caps:
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Peaky Blinders 8 Piece Cap
The 8-Piece Peaky Blinders Cap has been around for years but never seems to be out of style. It's an Irish tweed standout that has been made increasingly popular by the show that bears the same name. Throughout history, it has also been referred to as the newsboy cap. This is a fuller fit cap which has a roomier look, protruding slightly over the ears. Looks flattering on everyone.
Patchwork Cap
This is one of our Biddy Insiders, Brendan wearing the Patchwork Cap. Yes, he makes it look great! Because of the fact that it is crafted using various traditional tweed patches, no two caps are the same. You can make it your own. It offers a fuller fit design, which is roomier and sits a little lower on your head. Because it's made with random patches, it ends up looking good with a variety of colors and styles of outfits.
Kerry Tweed Driving Cap
If you are looking for a slim fitting hat that offers a more contoured look, our Kerry Tweed Driving Cap fits the bill. It's crafted with 100% Irish, Killarney tweed which has flecks of color throughout the weave. The interior of this tweed cap is heavily insulated in a quilted pattern for warmth on those chilly days. It is expertly tailored with double stitching at the seams which makes it durable, so you can wear this cap with pride for many years.
Beyond Caps: Other Irish Goods at Biddy Murphy
Biddy Murphy offers a wide array of authentic Irish goods, perfect for gifting or adding a touch of Ireland to your wardrobe and home. Here are a few highlights:
- Irish Tweed Herringbone Waistcoat Vest: A classic Irish vest looks great on any man. Paired with a button-up or plain white t-shirt, the result is a stylish look that will garner plenty of compliments. Our Irish Tweed Herringbone Waistcoat Vests are made using traditional techniques which equates to a high quality piece of clothing that will wear well for years to come. Vests also pair nicely with our tweed caps.
- Brushed Merino Wool Scarf: Our Brushed Merino Wool Scarf is 12" wide x 72" long, which is the perfect size for a comfy wrap around the neck. Because this scarf is woven from 100% brushed Merino wool, it's super soft and feels incredibly comfortable, helping to keep the winter breeze away. This scarf is available in a variety of colors and we also offer a discount when you purchase more than one, so it's an ideal gift!
- Authentic Irish Fisherman's Knit Sweater: When you think of authentic Irish attire, chances are that an Irish Fisherman's Knit Sweater is the picture that pops into your head. Worn for centuries to keep the cold, damp chills away, our Irish sweater is crafted from 100% new Merino wool. It features the distinctive Aran knit pattern for a traditional yet classic look. It's an Irish favorite that, with the proper care, you'll have for many, many years. It's an heirloom quality gift.
- Tartan Tie: Do you know someone who always shows up, dressed up, wearing a nice tie? Our Tartan Tie would make a great gift that gent. It can dress up a casual look or fit in nicely with a 3 piece suit. We carry three classic tartan plaids. They measure 56" long, the standard length for a tie. Each tie is made of 100% new wool, so it's soft to the touch. Great for a wedding party or groomsmen gift.
- Claddagh Wedding Band: If you are planning to say "I do" or you want to say "yes" all over again, our Claddagh Wedding Band is a symbolic ring that is perfect to mark your special occasion. This sterling silver ring features an intricate Claddagh design that wraps around the whole band. The Claddagh represents friendship, love and loyalty. This ring has been hallmarked for purity at the Dublin Assay Office. It makes an ideal gift for your loved one.
- Oxidized Celtic Cross: One of our most popular symbols for men, this Oxidized Celtic Cross makes an excellent gift for someone who wants to display their heritage. The well known Celtic sun cross is a symbol that represents knowledge, strength, and compassion. This large pendant measures approximately ¾” wide x 1 ¼” tall and comes on your choice of a 20" or 24" rolo chain with a lobster clasp, which is easy to use and secure.
- Oxidized Celtic Weave Band: This narrow sterling silver Oxidized Celtic Weave Band is simple yet stunning. The Celtic weave is symbolic of timeless love without a beginning or an end. The weave itself is highlighted by the oxidized look, which is increasingly popular right now. The band measures 1/4" wide and has been hallmarked for purity by the Assay Office which is located in the famed Dublin Castle.
- Double Sided Celtic Cross: If you are looking for a more subtle pendant, this Double Sided Celtic Cross is definitely one of our best sellers. It is simple, yet detailed on both sides, so no matter how it lays, the cross is always evident. Decorated with intricate Celtic weaves, this necklace deserves to be seen. Measures approximately 1 ½” x ⅞” wide and comes on a 20" or 24" belcher chain.
- Celtic Embossed Leather Bracelet: Does your guy appreciate artisan crafts or luxurious leathers? We have the perfect gift for him! This Celtic Embossed Leather Bracelet features a silver trinity knot charm. Available in 7 1/2" or 8" lengths and your choice of brown or black. It has a magnetic closure so it's easy to take on and off. Crafted by our maker-partner Lee River Leather Goods in Co. Cork.
- Trinity Knot Money Clip: This stainless steel and pewter Trinity Knot Money Clip will keep his money safe and secure, in style. Measuring approximately 1 ⅛” wide x 2 ¼” long, it's the perfect size to fit in a pocket. The spring loaded closure is secure but not too tight, so it makes accessing your money convenient. The design includes 4 Trinity Knots. This clip makes a great gift for your guy or a group of groomsmen.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Products
Biddy Murphy partners with numerous skilled artisans and suppliers throughout Ireland to bring you authentic, high-quality goods. Here are a few examples:
| Supplier | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Kerry Woollen Mills | County Kerry | Traditional woolens and yarns |
| Mucros Weavers | County Kerry | Woven goods, including caps and scarves |
| Mullingar Pewter | County Westmeath | Pewter crafted items |
| Lee River Leather Goods | Cork City | Original and durable leather goods |
| John Hanly & Co. | County Tipperary | Wool products |
These partnerships ensure that each item you purchase from Biddy Murphy is not only beautiful but also steeped in Irish tradition and history. For example, Mucros Weavers is located in the Muckross House in Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry. Killarney National Park is one of the most famous tourist locations in Ireland with stunning natural views, and the Muckross house is one of the focal points.
From their small beginnings, Mucros Weavers has grown to produce high quality woven goods in the form of caps, scarves, purses, wallets and more. You’ll see the beautiful hues of their natural surroundings included in their color palette.
Biddy Murphy works closely with John Hanly & Co. to carry the finest scarves, sweaters, blankets and caps. John Hanly & Co was founded in 1893 and is located in Co. Tipperary, Ireland. The management has always been under the Hanly family, who has seen many changes in their company over the years.
Mullingar Pewter is located in Mullingar, Co.Westmeath, Ireland. Founded in 1974 by Paddy Collins, the company is now run by his son, Peter. Mullingar Pewter sought to renew Ireland’s eight hundred year old history of creating and crafting with pewter.
Lee River Leather Goods was founded in 1985 and is located in Cork City, alongside the Lee River. They pride themselves on crafting original, durable and usable leather goods.