Social Fabric 

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When I see this hat I think of the renaissance, with its long pointed toes and slouchy hats. The first thing I am reminded of is the Poulaine or pulley shoe, a long pointed toe shoe which became popular in the late 14th century. These shoes are also called Crakows, as they were thought to be originated in Krakow, Poland. Such shoes were worn by men and women, but men's were the most extravagantly long. They often had metal chains or strings pulling them up to stop the points from getting in the way while walking. These shoes were definitely a symbol of fashion, style and status rather than comfort, and even altered the shape of the wearer’s foot after prolonged periods of use. Another type of shoe which this hat reminds me of is the Winklepicker of the 1950`s. This long pointed toe, reminiscent of medieval footwear is considered to be a more modern version of the Poulaine. Lastly this hat reminds me of the 18th century night cap, a long cap which was worn to bed in the winter as houses did not have an efficient source of heat and winters were cold.