Molly: Regency & Victorian Capote Bonnet

Straw Capote bonnets (scoop shaped) like this one were worn during the early years of the Regency, as both these period fashion plates below (first: The Gallery of Fashion, 1794-1798, Second: 1806, Costumes Parisians) show. The capote bonnet was a popular style as it easily 'accommodated the modish hair styles of that era, which were short or piled on top of the head.' The style was also popular during the mid-1800's as a working bonnet, as it offered full shade to the face. The extant images are from a collection of bonnets (1820-1845) held by Old Sturbridge Village. The final image shows dancers wearing the Molly bonnet (right and left, center dancer is wearing Eliza) so you can see how it fits. This bonnet is sold trimmed with wide ribbon ties and narrow ribbon trimming , but is also available as a plain blank under the name, "Molly". "The shape of the Capote bonnet changed as hairdos changed, and the hat crown shifted to accommodate the increased height of swept up hair. The poke, or brim, also became larger over time. This definition describes the Victorian capote: Close fitting bonnet with rigid brim, either of straw or boned into shape. Soft, shirred crown , ribbon bows tied under the chin, Victorian 19 c. with deep ruffle in back. Also poke bonnet, fanchon, scuttle bonnet, sun bonnet." - Glossary of Hats, Village Hat Shop