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The slouch hat, also known as the Australian slouch hat, is a wide-brimmed felt or cloth hat with a chinstrap. It has been worn by military personnel from many different nations, but is most commonly associated with Australia, where it is considered a national symbol. The Australian slouch hat has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side, with a Rising Sun Badge, to allow a rifle to be slung over the shoulder. The hat is made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt and is always worn with a puggaree. The puggaree is made from light khaki-coloured cotton and has seven pleats, one for each state and one for the Australian Territories. The slouch hat has been manufactured in Australia for the Australian Army by companies such as Akubra, Mountcastle & Sons and Bardsley Hats since World War I.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Wide-brimmed felt or cloth |
| Brim | Made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt |
| Side | Turned up against the crown |
| Brim position | Standardised, but turned up on the right side in Victoria and Tasmania, and on the left side in all other states |
| Chinstrap | Present |
| Puggaree | Present, with seven pleats, one for each state and one for the Australian Territories |
| Colour | Khaki |
| Use | Protection from the sun |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the material
The slouch hat is a wide-brimmed hat made of felt or cloth, and it is most commonly worn as part of a military uniform. It has been a standard issue in the Australian military since the late Victorian era. The distinctive Australian slouch hat is also known as the "'Australian bush hat" or "digger hat". It has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side with a Rising Sun Badge, allowing a rifle to be slung over the shoulder.
When choosing the material for making an Australian slouch hat, it is important to consider the traditional materials used, the desired level of authenticity and durability, and the specific purpose or use case for the hat. Here are some factors to consider:
Felt or Cloth: Traditionally, slouch hats are made from felt or cloth. Felt, particularly rabbit-fur felt or wool felt, is a common choice for its durability and ability to withstand harsh conditions. It is also naturally water-resistant and breathable, making it suitable for outdoor use. Cloth, on the other hand, can offer a lighter-weight option and may be more comfortable in warmer climates.
Colour and Camouflage: The colour of the material should be considered based on the intended use of the hat. Traditional Australian slouch hats are often khaki, which provides a good balance between camouflage and sun reflection. Other colours such as olive drab, jungle green, or dark blue are also used by different military units to match their uniforms or specific environments in which they operate.
Breathability and Comfort: Consider the breathability of the material, especially if the hat is intended for use in warm or humid climates. Materials like cotton or lightweight wool can provide better ventilation and comfort. Additionally, look for materials that are soft and flexible, ensuring a comfortable fit for the wearer.
Durability and Weather Resistance: If the hat is intended for outdoor use, durability and weather resistance are key factors. Felt, especially when treated, can offer good protection against the elements, including rain and sun. Consider the thickness and quality of the material, as a heavier-duty fabric will provide longer-lasting performance.
Customisation and Accessories: Traditional Australian slouch hats often feature accessories like puggarees (a thin scarf or headband), chin straps, and emu plumes. When choosing the material, consider whether you plan to add these accessories and ensure that the fabric can accommodate any additional attachments or customisations.
By carefully considering these factors and choosing the right material, you can create an Australian slouch hat that is not only authentic and aesthetically pleasing but also functional and durable for its intended use.
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Cutting and shaping the brim
The brim of the Australian slouch hat is made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt and is always worn with a puggaree. The brim is usually about 3½ inches wide.
When cutting and shaping the brim, it is important to consider the functionality of the hat. The slouch hat is designed with one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side to allow a rifle to be slung over the shoulder without damaging the brim. The side of the brim that is turned up can vary depending on the region. In Victoria and Tasmania, the brim is turned up on the right side, while in the other Australian states, it is turned up on the left side. This variation allows for different drill movements.
To shape the brim, you will need to form a loop on one side of the hat to secure it in place. A brass clip can be used to hold the brim in position. For a more secure fit, you can also use a chin strap, which is typically included with the hat. The chin strap can be buckled on the right side of the face as a traditional mark of respect.
When the hat is not being worn for ceremonial purposes, the brim is typically worn down to provide additional protection from the sun.
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Adding a chinstrap
The Australian slouch hat is a wide-brimmed felt or cloth hat, most commonly worn as part of a military uniform. It is considered a national symbol of Australia. The distinctive Australian slouch hat, sometimes called an "Australian bush hat" or "digger hat", has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side of the hat with a Rising Sun Badge. This is to allow a rifle to be slung over the shoulder.
When adding a chinstrap to an Australian slouch hat, it is important to consider the functionality and comfort of the strap. The chinstrap should be adjustable to ensure a secure and comfortable fit for the wearer. Here are the steps to add a chinstrap:
- Measure the circumference of the hat: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the distance around the hat, where the chinstrap will be attached. This will help you determine the length of the chinstrap needed.
- Choose the right material: The chinstrap should be made of a durable and flexible material such as leather, canvas, or a sturdy fabric. Ensure that the material is comfortable against the skin and can withstand regular use.
- Cut the chinstrap to length: Using the measurement from step 1, cut the chinstrap material to the appropriate length, leaving a little extra on each end for attachments.
- Attach the ends of the chinstrap: You can use metal clips, buckles, or other fasteners to attach the ends of the chinstrap to the hat. Ensure that the fasteners are secure and durable.
- Adjustability: To make the chinstrap adjustable, consider adding a slider or a series of holes and studs to allow the wearer to customise the fit. This is especially important if the hat is to be worn in windy conditions or during physical activities.
- Test and adjust: Once the chinstrap is attached, test the fit by putting on the hat and adjusting the chinstrap to a comfortable position. Ensure that the fasteners and adjustability mechanisms are functioning properly.
By following these steps, you can add a functional and comfortable chinstrap to your Australian slouch hat, ensuring that it stays securely on your head during any activity while maintaining the distinctive style and practicality of this iconic headwear.
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Pinning the brim
The Australian slouch hat is a wide-brimmed felt or cloth hat, most commonly worn as part of a military uniform. It is considered a national symbol of Australia. The distinctive Australian slouch hat, sometimes called an "Australian bush hat" or "digger hat", has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side of the hat with a Rising Sun Badge. This allows a rifle to be slung over the shoulder.
The slouch hat was first worn by military forces in Australia in 1885 when the newly created Victorian Mounted Rifles adopted the hat as part of their uniform. The hat was turned up on the right side in Victoria and Tasmania, and on the left side in all other states to allow for different drill movements. The brim is made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt and is always worn with a puggaree. The term 'puggaree' originates from the Hindu word 'pagri', meaning a turban or thin scarf of muslin. The puggaree is either a flat band or has seven pleats, one for each state and one for the Australian Territories. It is made from light khaki-coloured cotton and is worn on the slouch hat with a unit colour patch sewn on the right side.
The Grade 2 Slouch hat is worn with the left brim down and the Rising Sun badge removed. The brim is folded up and clipped into place with a brass clip and loop. The decision to remove the Rising Sun badge was made to ensure the Army’s emblem is never worn in a disrespectful manner. Like the Australian National Flag, the Rising Sun Badge should never point to the ground, be hidden from view, or be placed face down on the ground.
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Adding a puggaree
Cut a strip of fabric: The first step is to cut a strip of fabric that will form the puggaree. The fabric should be durable and absorbent, such as cotton or canvas. The strip should be long enough to fit around your head where the hat will sit, with a few extra inches for overlap. The width of the strip can vary, but it should be wide enough to provide a comfortable surface for the sweatband.
Fold and sew the strip: Fold the strip of fabric lengthwise, right sides together, and sew along the long edge, leaving one end open. This will create a long, thin tube of fabric. Turn the tube right side out and press it flat, using an iron if needed.
Create the puggaree: With the strip of fabric prepared, you can now create the puggaree. Starting at the center front of the hat, pin the puggaree in place, wrapping it around the base of the hat. Ensure that the strip is taut but not too tight, providing a comfortable fit.
Secure the puggaree: Once you have wrapped the puggaree around the hat and adjusted it for a comfortable fit, it's time to secure it in place. You can hand-stitch the ends of the puggaree together, ensuring that the stitch is invisible from the outside. Alternatively, you can use fabric glue to secure the ends, ensuring a clean finish.
Add embellishments: Traditionally, the puggaree on an Australian slouch hat features embellishments such as a hat badge or a feather hackle. You can add these embellishments to your puggaree to complete the look. Hat badges can be sewn or glued in place, while feather hackles can be attached with a metal clip or carefully glued to the fabric.
By following these steps, you can add a functional and authentic-looking puggaree to your Australian slouch hat. This detail not only provides comfort and absorbs sweat but also adds to the overall style and tradition of this iconic hat. Ensure that your puggaree is securely attached and adjusted to your head size for the best fit.
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Frequently asked questions
A slouch hat is a wide-brimmed felt or cloth hat with a chinstrap. It has been worn by military personnel from many nations, including Australia, where it is considered a national symbol. The Australian slouch hat has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side with a Rising Sun Badge.
The slouch hat was first worn by military forces in Australia in 1885 when the newly created Victorian Mounted Rifles adopted the hat as part of their uniform. It became standard Australian Army headgear in 1903 and has been manufactured in Australia for the army since World War I.
The Australian slouch hat is worn with the brim turned up on the right side in Victoria and Tasmania and on the left side in all other states. It is also adorned with a puggaree, which is a thin scarf of muslin, and sometimes emu plumes.
The brim of the Australian slouch hat is made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt.
