A sensational wide-brim straw cartwheel hat with black velvet trim. The dipping brim adds just the right amount of drama.
1950s Cartwheel Hat Details
A true cartwheel silhouette with a sweeping 19-inch span, this vintage straw hat pairs a low, structured black velvet crown with matching velvet trim along the brim’s edge. The contrast is crisp and graphic, giving it that unmistakable mid-century presence.
The wide brim frames the face and shoulders beautifully, with just enough natural movement to keep it from feeling stiff. It’s dramatic, but wearable—the balance that makes these so hard to find.
Inside, a green fabric lining adds an unexpected pop of color, finished with a grosgrain sweatband for structure. A discreet stretch cord sits at the back, designed to tuck under the hair for a more secure fit.
The kind of piece that turns a simple outfit into a full look.
- Era: Late 1950s–early 1960s
- Material: Straw with velvet crown and trim
- Natural straw with black velvet
- Green fabric lining
- Grosgrain sweatband.
- A hidden stretch cord goes under your hair for a secure fit.
- Fits most.
Why We Love It
- True cartwheel proportions (increasingly hard to find).
SHOP MORE VINTAGE HATS
WHAT IS A CARTWHEEL HAT
What is a Cartwheet Hat
A cartwheel hat is a wide-brimmed style popular in the 1950s, named for its large, circular shape that resembles a wheel laid flat. Designed to sit low on the head with a shallow crown, it creates a dramatic, face-framing silhouette. Often made in straw, felt, or fine fabrics, cartwheel hats were favored for their elegance and scale—perfect for garden parties, weddings, and making an entrance.
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.
SIGN UP FOR SPECIALS & DISCOUNTS
Photos copyright © 2026 Madge’s Hatbox Vintage. Join our Facebook group, Mad About Vintage, for weekly specials.

















