- Pillbox hat
A pillbox hat is a small woman's hat with a flat crown and straight, upright sides.
History
Historically, the pillbox was also a military
headgear , often including a chin strap, and can still be seen on ceremonial occasions in some countries, especially those belonging to the Commonwealth. For example, theRoyal Military College of Canada dress uniform includes a pillbox hat. [http://phmc.gc.ca/cmh/en/image_504.asp?page_id=548 Royal Military College of Canada uniform] . In military terms the pillbox is a round defence structure for ground troops, popularised in World War I by the British. [http://www.britarch.ac.uk/cbawales/Newsletters/newsletter23/newsletter23.html#DBP The Defence of Britain: the Welsh Aspect] Pillbox fortifications still stand today and are particular prevalent in Wales, such as those atNant Ffrancon .Cultural references
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Jacqueline Kennedy ,First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963, was well-known for her 'signature pillbox hats' in the 1960s, designed byOleg Cassini . [William J. Spurlin, 'I'd Rather Be the Princess Than the Queen', "Mourning Diana: Nation, Culture and the Performance of Grief", ed. Adrian Kear and Deborah Lynn Steinberg, Routledge, London, 1999, page 158]
*Pillbox hats are mentioned in the song "Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat " byBob Dylan . The song first appeared on his 1966 album "Blonde on Blonde ".References
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