Why Baseball Caps Never Go Out Of Fashion

Baseball caps began as purely functional items; they stem from the mid-19th century and originated as practical headwear for baseball players to shield their eyes from the sun. Today, especially in the summer months, you see people wearing them everywhere they go - so how did they evolve from a sportswear item to one of the biggest fashion accessories worldwide? 

SHOP CAPS

Their versatility is a driving factor in their popularity. Whether it's a simple black baseball cap for a casual outfit, or one that features logos and embroidery for more signature looks, there's a personal feel that allows you to style it your way.

Blending comfortability, practicality and style, the baseball cap has continuously adapted to remain relevant through decades of different trends and fashion eras. 

The Origin of the Baseball Cap

1840s

Early versions of the baseball cap were far simpler than they are today. During the 1840s to 1870s, baseball players went from straw hats to boating caps, to jockey-style hats and more. There wasn't a universal cap everyone wore, different teams wore whatever felt practical for them. In the 1860s, the Brooklyn Excelsiors wore a cap with a round crown and a longer brim that stayed in place and provided good shade, this is often referred to as 'the first real baseball cap'. 

By the late 1800s, baseball caps had become more than just something to block out the sun.

Fans began to associate their teams with certain cap styles and colours. Pillbox caps had been introduced; styles were changing and by the early 1900s the Detroit Tigers had even introduced a red tiger stitching on their cap - creating a more recognisable and unique on-field look. 

The 20th century would then shoot baseball caps into immense popularity among players and, after decades of slow growth and style changes, the 59FIFTY cap was introduced in 1954 by New Era. With its structured shape, ventilation holes on each panel and fitted design, it became the favourite for professional players. 

SHOP BASEBALL CAPSSHOP 9FORTYSHOP 59FIFTY

How Baseball Caps Became a Fashion Staple

As baseball continued to grow throughout the 20th century, so did the popularity of the baseball cap. The practicality, comfort and instantly recognisable design meant that what was once reserved for players on the field slowly became part of everyday fashion. By the 1980s and 1990s, baseball caps had become heavily associated with music, skate culture and streetwear. 

Music artists, athletes and celebrities all had a part to play in bringing baseball caps into mainstream fashion. Caps became a way for people to express their own identity, oversized-fits and 90s looks were ruled by the baseball cap; it adapted to changes in trends and different generations without ever losing its original appeal. 

Baseball caps can be utilised for a variety of outfits. A black baseball cap can add an understated element of style to loads of looks, while brighter colours and embroidered designs become statement pieces and can make or break an outfit. 

Customisation and branding have risen in popularity over recent years, and this has contributed to cementing the baseball cap as a fashion essential. Embroidery allows brands, teams and everyday wearers to add a touch of individuality to their cap, keeping the design relevant by allowing it to constantly evolve alongside fashion trends.

Today, baseball caps are worn across every part of modern culture. From sport and streetwear to travel and summer fashion, they continue to blend comfort, practicality and style in a way that few accessories can - which is exactly why they never go out of style.

Shop all MLB Baseball Caps

1 50

Over 150 years after they first appeared on baseball fields, baseball caps remain one of the most popular accessories in fashion. Whether it’s a neutral baseball cap, a bold design inspired by your favourite team, TV show or music artist, or one with embroidery that gives a unique finishing touch – the appeal remains. Customisable, versatile, stylish, the baseball cap consistently proves that some designs just never go out of fashion.  

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT 59FIFTYFIND OUT MORE ABOUT CELEBRITIES INFLUENCES