ON SUNDAY NIGHT THE AWARD WINNING MOVIE “THE KING’S SPEECH” FOLLOWED UP ITS SUCCESS IN THE UK AND EUROPE BY WINNING FOUR OSCARS INCLUDING BEST PICTURE.

Could the success at popularity of this British movie mean that the long neglected man’s bowler hat will now be making a comeback as a ‘must have’ fashion accessory? Originally designed in 1849 for gamekeepers the bowler was initially very much for the working classses, but in the mid-20th century it gradually became a badge of the Establishment, worn by kings, city gents, bank managers and legal professionals amongst others.

Now the success of the movie threatens to resurrect the bowler’s popularity. It has already made an appearance on the catwalk at the this month’s London Fashion Week, and I also understand that the bowler has also featured in a recent video for Radiohead’s new single, though I must confess to not having seen it!

Beyond the bowler hat, the success and popularity of The King’s Speech might also lead to a resugence of interest in other more formal clothing and gentlemen’s tailoring classics such as the classic double breasted overcoat, wide peaked lapels on single and double breasted jackets and silk scarves. As a bespoke tailor with more that 45 years of experience, and head of family business that has for 127 years upheld the finest traditions of Savile Row in Australia I certainly hope so.

It can be seen from this image, taken over six months ago, that I am certainly fully prepared. Here my soft bowler hat is teamed with a black single breasted two button three piece bespoke suit and a striped white collar bespoke shirt, both from J. H. Cutler, and a spotted Stefanno Ricci Italian silk tie and Stefano Bemer bespoke shoes with suede inserts, which are also available from J. H. Cutler. The ensemble is topped off with my own silver topped ebony cane.