The witch hat is an iconic image that adorns Halloween costumes. It is often paired with the broomstick, as in the witch in the Wizard of Oz. However, it is more than just a frightful accessory. This hat has a history and a story to tell.
Witches were believed to be followers of the Devil, and were often depicted wearing pointed hats. They were also believed to be evil and untrustworthy foreigners. But, as with many icons in history, the story of the witch hat is a bit murky.
Early depictions of witches often featured nude women. These are similar to the women in the outtakes from Sabrina the Teenage Witch, who are said to have been covered in funnel-shaped contraptions of black felt. In other instances, they were depicted as being emancipated slaves.
However, the association of the pointy hat with witches did not arise until the early modern period. In this time, they were portrayed as satanic sorceresses who defied patriarchal norms. Moreover, they were associated with a variety of professions. Some were brewers, while others were known as herbalists. During the 1710s and 1720s, children’s chapbooks started to include supernatural tales illustrated with peaked hats.
These hats are usually made of wool felt, though eco-conscious witches can choose fabric from recycled soda bottles. Besides being an easy-to-do costume, a witch hat can be a fascinating conversation starter.
Originally, a pointed hat was a barbarian hat. Aside from being used by the Church, this hat was also worn by Jews in parts of Europe. Many historians believe that these hats were used as a symbol of otherness.
Various cultures throughout the centuries have worn the conical hat. It is an ancient hat with a long history of use. The first examples were found in the deserts of western China. Later, they were worn by priests and other people in the Bronze Age.
The conical hat has also been a symbol for magicians. Some believe that the symbol originated in the Roman Empire. Several magi were said to wear the cap, and they were also depicted in military emblems and seals. The cap was even associated with King Midas and numerous other figures in Greek art.
The use of the pointed hat in film adaptations has been very limited. However, it still holds special meaning for some Wiccans and magicians. For example, Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter wears a pointed hat in her student uniform. Other famous witches from the movie include the Wicked Witch of the West and the Bardot sisters.
The classic witch hat is a black conical hat with an extra-wide brim. It features a wire frame and glossy fabric. To complete your look, you can choose a glitzy rhinestone buckle. You can also pair your hat with a sexy broom and other paraphernalia to create a more sinister outfit.
If you are looking for a witch hat for Halloween, you can find them at many stores. The most popular are at megastores like Abracadabra.