La Cholita Bowler Hat of Bolivia South America

El Sombrero

• Brown Wool Felt 
• Brass Colored Satin Ribbon around Brim
• Brass Colored Satin Ribbon Band with Bow, Braided Cord and Tassels 
• Lined
• Label says La Cholita M. R. Extra-Fino  (There is another stamped area on the brim but the words are illegible)
• Looks Vintage but Not Dated

• These hats are small to sit atop the head.  Please see measurements :)
• Circumference measures about   20" 
• Estimated size:  XSmall

• Condition:  The satin lining is coming away along the inside of the the brim, as shown in photos

Some History From Bolivian Life.com:  “Because Bolivia is so culturally diverse, there is no ‘typical Bolivian clothing’. Outfits differ according to region, climate, income levels and personal choice. In La Paz, a Cholita’s outfit is usually comprised of the following components: El Sombrero The bowler hat, the most recognizable part of the Cholita’s outfit, is worn to signify the marital status of a woman. If the hat is worn in the middle the woman is married; to the side means they are single or widowed; and as often joked, over the back of their head means the relationship is ‘complicated’. Story has it that the bowler hat was originally intended for railway engineers working in Bolivia. When a tradesman discovered that hats received in the shipment were too small, he peddled them to the local women who quite fancied them. The craze caught on and the rest is history!”

Preowned/Used - Unless otherwise noted, items are in good to excellent condition, gently worn with normal wash wear and no known defects. Please see pictures.

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