O
One simply did not leave the house without it. Today, the vast majority of men no longer wear a hat, except as a cool fashion statement.
Well dressed heads in Hafling and Vöran
The villages of Hafling and Vöran can look back on a special and long-lasting tradition that revolves around a special item of clothing: the straw hat. Originally worn by the farmers during their hard work in the fields, this hat developed over time into a symbol of elegance and style at events and balls. Making the straw hat was a task traditionally undertaken by women, and they devoted themselves to this handiwork especially during the winter months.
Handmade production
The production of a straw hat was an extremely elaborate process that was meticulously done by hand. The raw material, autumn straw, was a by-product of grain cultivation and was available in abundance and was also used to cover
the straw roofs. Every step, from cutting out and soaking the straw to "ironing it smooth" with a bottle and finally braiding and sewing, took time and skill. On average, it took about two to three days to complete a straw hat. This craft was passed down through generations and has survived to this day in Hafling and Vöran.
Living heritage
This preservation of tradition is extremely valuable, because the former headgear has long since become a fashionable summer accessory that can be found in numerous shapes and designs in almost every wardrobe. The straw hats from Hafling and Vöran are not only timeless, but also a living heritage that honours and cherishes the history and craftsmanship of this region. This cultural heritage is an integral part of the identity of these villages and contributes to the diversity and uniqueness of their culture.
In Hafling and Vöran, man - and woman - wears hats. The same model, but with different coloured strings: red for the women, green for the men.