What is a "bowler"?

A bowler, also known as a bowler hat or a derby, is a hard-felt hat with a rounded crown, created in 1849 by the British hatmakers James and George Lock. It was originally designed as a sturdy hat for gamekeepers and horseback riding, but it soon became popular with the upper classes for everyday wear. The bowler hat features a short, curled brim and a low, round crown that sits comfortably on the head. It is typically made of wool or fur felt and is often seen as a symbol of British culture and style. Despite falling out of fashion in recent years, the bowler hat remains a popular choice for formal events and is still worn by some traditionalist businessmen and politicians.