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 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 beauties, each hat is one-of-a-kind and ready for its next grand outing.

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.

Archie Eason 1950s Draped Cloche Hat

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. Then buy a fabulous vintage hat from Madge! For more detail, see our Hat Sizing Chart.

Q: Who Was Archie Eason?

Archie Eason began his career in 1984 as a stock boy at a department store in Jacksonville, Florida. While working shifts, he learned the millinery trade by observing hatmakers, eventually earning a position in the millinery department. Within a few years, he was designing hats under his own label for the store. After 14 years, Eason relocated to New York, where he collaborated with fashion designers and built an impressive clientele, including numerous Hollywood stars. Known for creating hats that flattered a wide range of face shapes, Eason produced a diverse body of work that blended classic forms with distinctive details. One of his most famous creations is the beret worn by Faye Dunaway in the 1968 film "Bonnie and Clyde." A hallmark of Archie Eason hats is a small green sequin placed on the outer edge of the crown, serving as his quiet signature. Read more about this talented milliner on our blog: https://madgeshatbox.com/archie-eason-the-green-sequin-hat/

A beautifully sculptural Archie Eason 1950s draped cloche hat designed with soft, flowing lines and a dramatic sense of balance.

This unique Archie Eason hat is crafted from richly toned wool felt, the crown is softly draped to create a close, head-hugging silhouette—an evolved cloche form popular in the 1950s. At the back, a wide grosgrain ribbon is shaped into a bold statement bow, giving the hat its architectural balance and unmistakable presence.

A small green sequin accent appears at the back of the crown, a subtle yet intentional signature detail in Archie Eason’s work. It’s the kind of quiet flourish collectors love: easily missed at first glance, but deeply satisfying once discovered.

Designed to sit slightly back on the head, this hat feels equally suited to cocktail wear or refined daytime dressing. A wonderful example of postwar American millinery, where classic silhouettes were reimagined with confidence, restraint, and a designer’s eye for detail.

1950s Draped cloche / close hat.
Wool felt.
Extra-large topstitched brown bow on the front.
Signature green sequin accent at the back.
Close-fitting mid-century cloche silhouette.

Why We Love It

Designed with interest from every angle — a true mid-century masterpiece.

VINTAGE CONDITION

SHOP MORE VINTAGE HATS

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ABOUT ARCHIE EASON

Who Was Archie Eason

In 1984, Archie Eason began his career as a stock boy at a department store in Jacksonville, Florida. While juggling shifts, he gained expertise in the millinery trade by observing hatmakers. His proficiency earned him a position in the millinery department, and within a few years, he was designing under his label for the store.

After 14 years, Eason relocated to New York, collaborating with fashion designers and building an impressive clientele, particularly among Hollywood stars. Eason crafted a diverse array of hats tailored to suit every face.

One of his most renowned creations was Faye Dunaway’s beret in the 1968 film “Bonnie and Clyde.” Eason’s distinctive touch is a green sequin on the outer edge of the crown of each of his hats. Read more about this talented milliner on our blog.

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.