Trimmed with frills, feathers, flowers, veils, jewels and ribbons, hats were a “must have” fashion accessory for women in the 1800’s. Every woman had at least one hat, even though it might be a simple “fascinator”. From the frilly bonnets of the 30’s and 40’s to the elaborate touring and tea hats of the 30’s and 60’s to the offbeat 90 ‘s industrial revolution-inspired “steam punk” hats, American women like their British counterparts, kept up with the styles. From prosperity through the strife of the Civil War and Reconstruction and beyond, during the long reign of Queen Victoria, hats were de riguer. Award-winning author, editor and journalist Carlotta Holton, dressed in costume explains the fascinating history of the hats and demonstrates her colorful, stylish and often whimsical collection of 36 hats including the influence of male hats as well.