Here at Shamrock Gift, we offer an extensive selection of traditional Irish headwear, and when it comes to Irish flat caps, we’re prouder than proud! Choose from a variety of exclusive flat caps and newsboy hats made in Ireland from the finest Irish tweed, handwoven Harris tweed, and linen, featuring distinctive herringbone motifs, unique patchwork designs, and classic checkered patterns.
This essential element of any Ireland-inspired wardrobe has been warming heads and hearts alike for as long as anyone can remember: it’s been around since the 14th century! This beloved classic headwear, traditionally recognized for its rounded body and small stiff brim, is believed to have originated in Northern England. In olden times, it acted as a marker of the working class, tied to a particular Act of Parliament, also known as the Cappers Act, that passed in 1571. To encourage domestic wool consumption, Queen Elizabeth declared that all non-aristocratic men aged six and over had to wear a wool cap, made mandatory by law on Sundays and holidays. Otherwise, those who did not adapt to the requirements were fined a massive (for that time) three farthings per day. This law lasted less than 30 years, but by the time it faded out, the flat cap had already become a go-to accessory for working class men. It wasn’t long before the trend caught on in Ireland and stayed there permanently.
By the time the 1920s had rolled around, flat caps had become more of a fashion statement than a practical cover against the elements while farming, favored by young men of all classes. Nowadays, they’re back with a vintage flair that shows no sign of fading out any time soon!
Today, Irish flat caps are commonly referred to as paddy caps, scally hats, or simply Irish caps and are authentically designed in a multitude of styles- it’s so easy to find one for any event and taste! Check out our exclusive selection of driving, Kerry, county, trinity, and touring caps, all originating from the traditional Irish flat cap. We provide a range of top-notch wool, Irish tweed, cotton, Harris tweed, and linen caps to match everyone’s needs and preferences, lined on the inside for both warmth and comfort. The soft lining and luxurious yarns serve the needs of the wearer no matter what the time of the year!
Select from a comprehensive range of popular Irish brands such as Mucros Weavers, Guinness, Hanna Hats, Failsworth, and Glen Appin of Scotland Limited, using traditional methods of spinning and weaving passed down through generations. Choose your perfect cap from a broad selection of designs, including the much-loved herringbone stitch or a fun, retro patchwork look that’s sure to charm those of even the most contemporary persuasion. Rugged, refined, and rustic all rolled into one, these caps make a perfect treat for yourself that you’re guaranteed to be sporting for years to come and an excellent gesture of goodwill toward the Ireland-lover in your life. Surprise them with a touch of history that will prove its worth time after time in the future. They’ll be thanking you for it!
Dress up an everyday ensemble with a traditional men’s Irish flat cap that will catch everyone’s eyes; alternatively, as many Irish people do, take your flat cap with you to the golf course or on a relaxing bike ride- thanks to its secure fit and gentle brim, this accessory is the ideal piece of headgear for keeping both sun and rain out of your eyes! Celebrities who favor the flat cap as their headpiece of choice include singer Harry Styles, actor Brad Pitt, and actor and producer of Harry Potter Jason Isaacs. It’s also massively featured on the hit show Peaky Blinders- an essential for every Peaky Blinder, proving that this is a look that transcends both trends and generations.
Choose your favorite Irish flat cap from our broad selection and be ready to stand out!