A baguette under the arm and a beret on the head: that's how the French are generally represented abroad. And while our famous long loaf of bread was recently classified by UNESCO, this flat cap popularized by Che Guevara also deserves its place on the world's intangible heritage list.
In fact, its manufacture dates back at least as far as the Middle Ages. In France, contrary to what the expression "Basque beret" might suggest, it was actually born in the bastide town of Nay in Béarn (Nouvelle Aquitaine region). Initially appreciated by Béarn shepherds for protection from the elements, the many qualities (waterproof, breathable, hard-wearing...) of this soft felt or knitted wool hat gradually won over soldiers, peasants and workers. More historically associated with the common people, it was adopted by the stars of the 7th art in the 20th century and is now a proudly worn accessory on fashion catwalks.
The cap is good for workers, the hat is impractical, whereas the beret, it's simple, it's chic, it's coquettish!
This atypical flat hat without a brim has had its own museum since 1996. Located in a former Directoire-style beret factory (in operation since 1819), it invites visitors to discover how the beret was made, thanks to old machines still in operation, and to immerse themselves in its history through period photos and video testimonials. Before you buy a beret in the store, a film will also show you the different ways of wearing this timeless accessory and what it says, or doesn't say, about you.
From the pastures of the Béarn region to the runways of haute couture, from the Cuban revolution to the cinema, the visit above all allows you to measure the incredible career of this hat, recently adopted by the heroine of Emily in Paris, and which, with the worldwide success of the series, should offer it many more fine days.
Plan your visit to this site belonging to France's last historic beret manufacturer, Laulhère, by visiting the Musée du Béret website.
Valérie from Comme des Français
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Credit photo : Musée du Béret / ©JoaoPhotos