Fezzes

Fezzes

Fezzes are a type of hat that originated in the city of Fez, Morocco in the early 19th century. They are typically made of felt or wool and feature a flat top and a tassel on the crown. Fezzes were traditionally worn by men in the Ottoman Empire and were later adopted by other cultures throughout the Middle East and North Africa. Fezzes became popular in Europe and the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly among fraternal organizations such as the Shriners, who adopted the fez as part of their distinctive uniform. The fez also became associated with exoticism and mystery in popular culture, appearing in films, literature, and other forms of media. Despite their popularity, fezzes have also been associated with controversy. In some countries, such as Turkey, the wearing of fezzes was banned in the early 20th century as part of a modernization effort. In other contexts, the fez has been seen as a symbol of colonialism and imperialism. Today, fezzes are primarily worn as part of traditional dress in Morocco and other parts of North Africa. They are also still used by some fraternal organizations and can be found in specialty shops catering to collectors of vintage and exotic headwear.

Fez, Morocco, Ottoman Empire, Shriners, controversy

— Matthew Baker