How do you grade vintage condition?

We use a standard condition scale: Fair, Good, Very Good, and Mint. Most pieces fall in the Very Good range, showing only minor wear from age and careful use. Each product description includes detailed notes.

What are your shipping and return policies?

Orders ship within five business days. International buyers are responsible for duties and taxes. Returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery—please notify us within 10 days of receipt. Buyer pays return shipping, and we do not charge a restocking fee. Full details appear on our Shipping & Returns page.

How to Care for Vintage Hats

To keep your vintage hat looking its best, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Use a hat box or tissue to support its shape. Handle the brim and crown gently, and avoid hanging hats by their bands. For dust, lightly brush with a soft cloth or hat brush. Avoid water or chemical cleaners—many vintage materials like straw, felt, and velvet are delicate. For deep cleaning or reshaping, consult a professional milliner.

How can I shop more vintage hats like this?

Browse our full collection of vintage hats at Madge’s Hatbox. From structured sailors and pillboxes to whimsical fascinators and wide-brimmed styles, each hat is one-of-a-kind.

How can I hear about new arrivals and special offers?

Join our list for $10 off your next purchase, plus first notice of new vintage finds, sales, and styling tips from Madge’s Hatbox.

How can I hear about new arrivals and special offers?

Join our list for $10 off your next purchase, plus first notice of new vintage finds, sales, and styling tips from Madge’s Hatbox.

1950s Black Sequin Pillbox Hat | Polished Cocktail Drama

Q: How to Find Your Hat Size

Pull a fabric tape measure or a length of string around your head just slightly above the ear, across the mid-forehead, completely circling your head. Hold the tape firmly but not too tightly—you are measuring exactly where the hat will sit. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters. If your measurement falls between sizes, choose the next largest size. For more detail, see our Hat Sizing Chart.

Step into an earlier glamorous era with this 1950s black sequin pillbox hat.

This sculptural cocktail hat features an inverted tulip silhouette with an open crown, allowing the sequined structure to frame the head without feeling heavy or overworked.

Commonly called an Eggshell the style was introduced by Dior in 1948. Popularized in the 1950s by Givenchy.

The crown is densely accented with black sequins, catching light with subtle movement rather than sparkle-for-sparkle’s sake.

A black veil netting drapes softly from the crown, dotted for texture and depth, creating that unmistakable midcentury balance of restraint and allure. Structured yet light, this piece sits beautifully forward on the head—just enough attitude, never too much.

The kind of hat worn with a fitted dress, a sharp coat, and a knowing smile.

Details

1950s pillbox cocktail hat.
Style called Eggshell.
Black sequin embellished fabric with veil netting.
Crown shape: Inverted tulip with open top.
Black netting with dotted accents.
Vintage condition with light, age-appropriate wear.

VINTAGE CONDITION

SHOP MORE VINTAGE HATS

Shop more Fall & Winter Hats

WHAT IS A PILLBOX HAT

What is a Pillbox

The pillbox hat is a small, structured, brimless style with straight sides and a flat or slightly rounded top. It rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, particularly in the late 1950s and early 1960s, when streamlined silhouettes and modern dressing came to the fore. Often worn tilted forward or balanced toward the back of the head, the pillbox was prized for its crisp lines and versatility, appearing in daytime, cocktail, and formal settings. The style became especially iconic in fashion history when Halston, then a milliner for Bergdorf Goodman, revived the pillbox and designed the hat worn by Jacqueline Kennedy for the 1961 presidential inauguration, helping to define the silhouette as a hallmark of midcentury fashion.

HOW TO MEASURE YOUR HAT SIZE

HOW TO FIND YOUR HAT SIZE

Pull a fabric tape measure or length of string around your head just slightly above the ear, across the mid-forehead, completely circling your head.
Hold the tape firmly, but not too tightly. You are measuring your head exactly where the hat will sit in either inches or centimeters.
If your measurement falls between sizes, choose the next largest size.
Then buy a fabulous vintage hat from Madge

SEE OUR HAT SIZING CHART

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR VINTAGE HAT

Vintage Hat Care

Always handle vintage hats by the brim, not the crown. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep them in a hatbox or covered with acid-free tissue to prevent dust. Avoid using modern sprays or steam, as these can damage delicate materials and trims. For reshaping or cleaning, it’s best to consult a professional milliner experienced in vintage restoration.

SHIPPING & RETURNS

We ship items within five business days. Occasionally, there might be shipping delays. If this occurs, we will promptly notify you.

Clothing and accessories ship via USPS Priority Mail, UPS, or FedEx, selecting the best option based on price and insurance. Jewelry ships either First Class or Priority. For overseas orders, we use International First Class. Please refer to our Shipping Information for detailed rates.

International buyers are responsible for all customs duties. PLEASE NOTE: Starting July 1, 2021, EU members will incur VAT taxes based on the specific country’s tax rates during importation.

We know you may be wary about buying vintage items. If so, we do offer returns. If you receive vintage pieces and are dissatisfied or if the item doesn’t fit, please inform Madge of your return request within 10 days of receiving the merchandise. You must return the items within 30 days after notifying us.

You can find our complete Return Policy here. If you have further questions after reading, please call or text (404) 850-1757.