It’s hard to imagine Vladimir Lenin without his distinctive woolen cap. This iconic image is likely etched in the minds of anyone familiar with early Soviet history. As the leader of the Russian communist revolutionary movement, Lenin was most known for his signature cap.
Before his emigration, Lenin favored bowler hats, as evidenced by some 1905-1907 archive photographs. However, he soon switched to a straw boater in Paris. Despite this, the cap, popular among the German working class, eventually accompanied him back to Russia in 1917 and remained an essential part of his personal wardrobe until his death. As a result, it’s challenging to find a monument of Lenin without a cap. Sometimes, he was even depicted holding a second one, possibly as a backup in case the main cap got blown off during a rally.
Interestingly, Armenia, with its rich history of hat-making, would later become the sole supplier of similar caps to the entire Soviet Union. Local artisans were renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, and their hats became a symbol of the stereotypical image of local men, including the neighboring Georgians.
Hat choice is a deeply personal matter, influenced by various factors such as head size, face shape, and hair style. If newsboy or flat caps and their various styles suit you, we recommend considering investing in our own version of the Lenin cap. Crafted from real Persian lamb with a cotton lining, it offers a significant upgrade over what Lenin wore. Additionally, we offer a range of casual caps in different styles to cater to a wider selection of preferences.