Throughout history, humans have always covered their heads. In the beginning, people wore hats for only functional reasons. During bad weather, people would wear hats to protect themselves from the elements. During cold weather hats helped prevent the loss of body heat, especially when you consider that 85 percent of our body heat can be lost through the head. Hats were also worn as protection from injury. Later, hats became a status symbol, or a sign of authority worn with uniforms. In modern day times people wear hats more as a fashion accessory.

During the early twentieth century, the wearing of hats was considered essential for the time's etiquette. During this time both men and women wore hats regardless of the occasion or activity. It was considered a disgrace to be seen in public without some form of headwear. It did not matter if a person was rich or poor, everyone felt obligated to wear a hat when going out in public.

During the start of World War II, proper etiquette and form began to lose importance among the people. The wearing of hats at all times became less important. Hats that were worn during this time were no longer the fashionable extravagant designs that they used to be. They became more practical. Most of the hats worn during this time were homemade knitted warm hats, berets, and hoods.

Even though the popularity of hats declined after the 1940s, it is unlikely that concept of hats worn as an accessory will ever die. The fact that hats are small and easily mass produced makes them easy to afford by everyone. Companies are often use hats to advertise their logo. This is a less costly way for them to get their company name out into the public. People have noticed that hats often draw a significant amount of attention from onlookers; fashion designers are aware of this and often exploit it. Regardless of the reason, hats have always been worn by people, and they will continue to do so in the future.