1980s Betmar Red Pillbox Hat | Military Chic
$55.00
1 in stock
1980s Betmar red pillbox hat in bright wool felt with gold Paris buttons and polished military chic styling.
That airy Edwardian black horsehair picture hat with the inky velvet hatband. Little flickers of warm-toned florals—very “Edwardian garden at dusk.”
✅ Approx. Hat Size (cm): 22.5″ (57); Outside Diameter: 8″ (20); Height of Crown: 3.5″ (9).
✅ Condition: Very good. Minor wear on buttons.
✅ Mark/Label: Betmar, made in USA
✅ Only One!
This 1980s Betmar red pillbox hat has a crisp and polished shape, but those fun Paris buttons keep it from feeling too serious. It looks equally at home with a black turtleneck, camel coat, or dramatic red lip.
1980s Red Pillbox Details
A striking red pillbox hat from Betmar with polished military-inspired style and a touch of Parisian flair. This structured 1980s wool felt hat features three graduated gold-tone buttons embossed with the Eiffel Tower and “Paris,” adding a playful couture finish to the clean silhouette.
The hat sits close to the head with a softly rounded crown and tailored shape that feels equal parts Jackie-era sophistication and 1980s power dressing. Pair it with a camel coat, black turtleneck, or dramatic evening look when only a bold vintage hat will do.
- Label: Betmar.
- Era: 1980s.
- Bright red wool felt.
- Hat slants out slightly towards the top.
- Graduated gold-tone Eiffel Tower Paris buttons.
- Pillbox style with indented crown.
- Size: 21.
Why We Love It
The vivid red color makes a statement before you even notice the charming Paris buttons. It has that polished vintage look that instantly finishes an outfit.
VINTAGE CONDITION
SHOP MORE VINTAGE HATS
THE HISTORY OF BETMAR
About Betmar
Betmar Hats launched in 1933 in New York City, taking its name from Betty Marks, the company’s first head designer. With a sharp eye for style and a talent for creating wearable fashion, Marks helped define the brand’s early success. “Betmar” combines the first syllables of her name—Betty Marks—a lasting tribute to her influence.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Betmar thrived as hats remained an essential part of women’s wardrobes. Betty Marks and her team designed chic, affordable styles that appealed to working women and fashion lovers alike. As trends evolved in the 1960s and beyond, the brand adapted—introducing softer shapes and casual silhouettes while maintaining its signature craftsmanship.
In the 1990s, Dorfman Pacific (now Dorfman Milano) acquired Betmar and expanded it globally. Today, Betmar continues to create contemporary hats with vintage-inspired flair, carrying forward Betty Marks’ original vision: to make stylish, well-made hats accessible to every woman.
WHAT IS A PILLBOX HAT
What is a Pillbox Hat
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 through its association with Jacqueline Kennedy, whose frequent wearing of pillbox hats helped define the look 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.
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