[Behind the Design] How the Railroad Cap Came to Be | Born of Good Old America and a Kyoto Hat Designer's Attention to Detail

Originally, it was a work cap worn by railroad workers in America around the 1920s.
Its features are a rounded silhouette with darts that follow the shape of the head, and a sturdy, longish brim.
Made of cotton or denim, it was tough and breathable, and a typical piece of workwear at the time.

At WORDS, while keeping this rugged appeal,
we have updated it “to suit modern lifestyles.”

It is designed to sit slightly deep, and to keep the area around the face looking neat, the brim is slightly long at approx. 7.5cm.
There is also a size adjuster at the back, so it fits head circumferences of 57-59cm.

For casual wear, for the outdoors, for walking around town.
It is a hat that adds “a little something nice” to any setting.

When you think of a railroad cap, you may picture people who like American casual or vintage clothing,
but at WORDS we adjusted the silhouette and colors so that it suits a wider range of styles.

• Works great with a plain T-shirt or sweatshirt
• Goes well with cargo pants and denim
• Perfect for days when you want to look a little relaxed

Just by putting it on, you add an “effortless” feel to your usual clothes.

• Black… A cool, sharp impression. Also good for smart outfits.
• Blue Denim… A casual, gentle mood. Goes well with vintage clothing and a work-style look.

If you can't decide on a color, start by choosing the one that is easiest to match with the clothes you already own.

With comfort and ease of handling in mind, we chose 100% cotton as the material.
It is breathable and doesn't get stuffy even in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, it also goes well with wool outerwear.
In other words, it is a hat you can enjoy all year round.

This hat is a WORDS original design.

“That when you put it on, you feel it is ‘just right.’”
That is what we value above all.

• You like vintage clothing, American casual or military styles
• You want to wear a hat that is a little different from everyone else's
• You are new to hats and looking for one that is easy to wear
• You want a hat you can wear every day

From Kyoto, WORDS delivers “hats that blend naturally into everyday clothes.”
We would be happy if this railroad cap, too,
could add a touch of “playfulness” to your wardrobe.

If it caught your interest, do check it out at our online store or at 京都の帽子屋 Fab (Kyoto no Boushiya Fab).