my Stetson Pony Express conversion

[Fedora Jay]

I couldn't find any pics of it before I rebashed it, but here's what the end results are. I removed a leather thong from the band, flattened the back of the teardrop and creased the back corners tightly, deepened the side dents, put a tighter pinch on the front, and curled the back sides up (I couldn't get the back to curl up like I wanted, so thats the best I could get).

And here's my Pendleton oilskin

It may just be me, but the Stetson still feels kind of western-ish to me. What does everyone think? Any suggestions on what else I could do if it is still giving a western vibe?

 

[J.T.Marcus]

To escape the western look, two things may be necessary: (1) A brim cut (to about 2 5/8") and (2) a new hatband (grosgrain ribbon, instead of leather). If that's too extreme, take heart. It's a good looking hat, as it is.

 

[Al_Ojeda]

Maybe instead of brim cut you can consider to reblock in a taller crown with no taper, and gross grain headband just my two cent.

 

[OddSteve]

To be honest, in my opinion the Pendleton with the taller crown and less taper suits you much better.
The Stetson, especially with that wide brim, has something like a 'wizard hat' to me

Just my two cents though

 

[Fedora Jay]

Thanks for the input! I agree that the Pendleton looks better on me; we kinda figured out that the taper on the Stetson wasn't quite right, maybe I can play with it a bit and take some of it out. I used to think the brim was also too wide, but I've gotten used to it, and really like it now. I think if I can get rid of the taper, I'll be much happier.

 

[J.T.Marcus]

... I think if I can get rid of the taper, I'll be much happier.

A quick way to reduce taper is to re-do the side dents so that they don't go quite so far back. You may be able to do it dry, or it may take steam or water.