Vintage BelMar Ladies Hat. The Dayton Company. Merrimac, Merri Soie. Very good condition.
Elevate your vintage wardrobe with this exquisite BelMar ladies' hat, a true piece of mid-century millinery history sourced from the legendary Dayton Company. The Dayton Company, a cornerstone of Minneapolis retail heritage, was renowned for its high-end fashion departments, and this hat represents the peak of post-war sophistication. Crafted from "Merri Soie"—a specialty silk-finish felt produced by the famed Merrimac Hat Corporation—the fabric possesses a subtle, lustrous sheen and a velvety texture that was highly prized for its durability and elegance. Merrimac was one of the largest and most respected millinery suppliers in the United States, and their "Merri Soie" line was a staple of luxury department stores throughout the 1940s and 50s.
The hat is in very good condition, maintaining its crisp silhouette and the deep, rich black of the original dye. The interior is a treasure trove for the fashion historian, featuring the original "BelMar," "The Dayton Company," and "Merrimac Merri Soie" labels. This piece is an ideal accessory for a "dark academia" ensemble or for adding a touch of authentic "Old Hollywood" glamour to a modern cocktail outfit. For the home decorator, this hat makes a stunning display piece on a vintage hat stand in a "boho-chic" bedroom or as part of a curated wall gallery of antique fashion. Whether you are a collector of regional department store history or a vintage enthusiast looking for a high-quality, wearable piece of the past, this BelMar hat is a timeless testament to American style.
This item is vintage, approximately 75 years old.
