Since just after the U.S. Civil War, New York City’s annual Easter Parade has been a must-go-to fashion statement for well-off New Yorkers, especially of the early 19th Century. Right after Sunday services. It’s also a must-go-to for photographers—for the past thirty-plus years, it’s been my must-get-to photographic opportunities all year.
This past February I sent out a newsletter titled Wear’s My Hat, one of my continuing visual stories documenting the parade. As this year’s Easter Parade & Bonnet Festival happens on March 31st, I wanted to offer a second newsletter showcasing some of the extravagant, over the top hats and personalities I’ve come across.
In the fifteen years between these two photographs, it’s evident that the bourgeois underpinnings inherent in the original parade years are long gone.
Paying homage to René Magritte’s Son of Man painting
As the years go by, we’re able to track current events and political stories of the day. Patriotism being at the forefront within the U.S. 18 months after 9/11.
Same butterfly theme, different years.
Shown below are photographs of the same person with differing big bonnets over the years.
Although the parade has always been about fashions from head to toe, it’s the millinery and hats that get most of the attention from spectators. Would you like to see more from the series? Let me know.
Check out some historical photographs of the early years from the Museum of the City of New York —> here.
If you consider this photographic series an interesting, insightful, or enjoyable read—please hit the like button so I know it’s having an impact. Also, share it with someone you know who would find it a good read too.
As always, I appreciate you reading this newsletter through.
Til next time…
Kenneth