Tribute to the Trilby

A Trilby hat is a soft felt men's hat with a narrow brim and a deeply indented crown. Traditionally it was made from rabbit hair felt, but now it is sometimes made from other materials, such as tweed, or wool. Trilbies are softer then Homburgs, and have a flexible brim instead of a curved one. They are similar to fedoras, but with a narrower brim. The hats name derived from a play based on George du Maurier's 1894 novel Trilby. A hat of this style was worn on stage during the play's first London production. The Trilby has been a symbol of chic elegance and class, and has been associated with jazz, ska and soul musicians.

The trilby was also often worn by Inspector Clouseau, the character portrayed by Peter Sellers in the Pink Panther film series. According to Sellers, he already owned a trenchcoat when he created the character, and he bought Clouseau's trilby from a shop in London, because he thought the hat just naturally completed the outfit.

My one and only ever possession of a Trilby was last seen at a Spanish party. Trilby was manoeuvring around on the dance floor to some hardcore techno tunes. Trilby being a socialite passed herself around the crowd. Mingling intially to some tall lawyer dude. Then the Spanish crew took possession of Trilby for a short while. Next I know Trilby has now gone awol. Perhaps into the vortex of the abyss. Her presence is now gone forever. But I live in hope that she may return one day.