Lenin’s Favorite Cap

It is impossible to imagine Vladimir Lenin outside with an uncovered head. Such is probably the image engraved on the memory of anyone familiar with early Soviet history. Leader of the Russian communist revolutionary movement is most known for wearing a woolen cap with a distinctive peak.

Vladimir Lenin in MoscowPrior to his emigration, Lenin favored bowler hats, as confirmed by some 1905-1907 archive photographs. Those would be shortly swapped for a straw boater later in Paris. However, the cap, popular among the German working class, ultimately accompanied him back to Russia in 1917, staying on as an indispensable item of personal wardrobe until the very end. As a result, it is a challenge to find a monument of Lenin not wearing a cap. At times, he was even perpetuated clutching a second one. Perhaps, a security in case the main item gets blown off at a rally.

Interestingly, Armenia, with some prior history of hat-making, would subsequently supply the entire Soviet Union with similar caps. Local artisans were known for producing only the best kind. Taking care of literally each Armenian man (and the neighboring Georgians for good measure) a stereotypical image of local men was created inadvertently.

Lenin Style Karakul Winter CapHat choice is a very personal matter. It depends on many factors, such as head size, face shape and hair style. If newsboy or flat caps and their multiple varieties suit you, we suggest to consider investing in our own version of the Lenin cap. Made of real Persian lamb with cotton lining, it is a definite upgrade over what Mr Lenin used to wear. We also produce casual caps of different styles to provide a wider selection.