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The challenge of this hat is that it's truly difficult to reshape into something other than the stock bash and brim without taking it to a professional hatter to get it reblocked and reflanged (see Milan Strat thread for some examples). I've only used steam and lots of it. I've successfully expanded the side dents a few times, but within a week, it's back to its original shape. I've given up on that.
The brim is more workable than the crown. Regarding the brim (those purists with real hat shaping tools may want to turn their eyes at this point), dust off those old Encyclopedia Britannicas. Four to be exact. I steamed the heck out of the brim and flattened it all the way around by laying the heavy books on each side overnight. That was actually pretty successful. But again, over time, it reverts back to its original shape. Every time I do it though, it lasts longer.
Another thing that works is to stretch the brim. The Milan gives. Steaming and gently stretching helps the brim to do what you want it to do. Besides, the brim was quite short on mine. Stretching got it to the 2 1/2" it's supposed to be.
I finally decided I like this hat best with a slight "brim up" look with the front close to flat. That's pretty easy to achieve.
To others considering the Milan Strat, buy it only if you like the stock look or are willing to get it professionally reworked.
On the way to dinner in Sundance Square Plaza - loving the BSHW western
Have eaten at Del Frisco's Grille twice in the last month or so. Great menu.
Yes it is - that's where we ate last night. I like to sit on the patio at Taco Diner too.
Thanks Dale, I hope tomorrow I should be back to my chipper self