# 1940s/50s Mr. Arnold Burnt Orange Silk Velvet Feather Tilt Hat, Size XS/S

- Link: https://shopquirkla.com/product/stunning-mr-arnold-velvet-feather-hat-1940s-50s/
- Published: 2026-08-01T02:53:10-07:00
- Author: russ

A striking piece of mid-century millinery by Mr. Arnold, rendered in luminous burnt
orange silk velvet and finished with an extraordinary curled feather plume.

The shallow oval crown sits close to the head with a softly structured, asymmetrical
profile. Sculpted velvet extensions descend from either side, framing the face while
giving the hat its distinctive tilted silhouette.

At one side, a large tonal feather arrangement curls outward in a sweeping spiral.
The mix of rust, vermilion, and burnt orange creates depth against the copper-toned
velvet, transforming the hat into a piece of wearable sculpture.

The interior features a decorative black lining printed with the Mr. Arnold name
and ornamental key motifs. A second label identifies the hat as having been retailed
through The French Room at Marshall Field & Co.

Pair it with a sharply tailored suit, a bias-cut evening dress, a minimal column
silhouette, or an otherwise restrained look that allows the plume to remain the 
focal point. It is equally compelling for editorial styling, costume design, portraiture,
or a serious vintage millinery collection.

**Details**

**Designer:** Mr. Arnold
 **Retailer:** The French Room, Marshall Field & Co. **
Era:** 1940s–1950s **Estimated Size:** Extra Small / Small **Size Basis:** Documented
item notes identify size XS/S; no numeric hat size visible **Color:** Burnt orange,
rust, copper, vermilion red **Material:** Silk velvet, dyed feathers, grosgrain 
ribbon, and printed fabric lining **Style:** Tilt hat, cocktail hat, feather hat,
mid-century statement millinery **Fit:** Shallow structured crown with a fixed interior
opening **Country of Origin:** Not stated **Condition:** Excellent vintage condition

**Fit Notes**

Best fits a modern size XS/S based on documented item information.

This is a shallow tilt-style hat designed to perch toward the crown rather than 
sit deeply over the head. Its structured interior opening offers limited flexibility.

Depending on hairstyle and desired placement, discreet hatpins may be helpful for
added security. No numeric hat size or exact interior circumference is provided.

**Condition**

Excellent vintage condition with light age-related wear.

The silk velvet remains richly colored with a strong, even pile and only subtle 
handling variation visible under direct light. The hat retains its structured oval
shape without major crushing, staining, holes, or visible repairs.

The dramatic feather plume remains full and securely attached. Individual feathers
show minor natural separation, edge irregularity, and light age-related wear consistent
with delicate vintage millinery.

The printed interior lining remains clean and vibrant. The French Room retailer 
label shows visible age, creasing, and edge wear.

**Styling Notes**

Style it with a black crepe dress, tobacco tailoring, deep chocolate satin, sharp
ivory separates, or a tonal rust ensemble.

The hat is designed to sit at an angle. Position the plume toward the side or slightly
behind the ear to emphasize its dramatic curled silhouette.

**Curation Note**

Each Quirk piece is hand selected by our team for quality, wearability, construction,
styling potential, and point of view.