Rediscover Vintage Sooners Hats - Cleaning and Reshaping Thrift Store Finds

The Allure of Vintage Sooners Hats

There's something special about a vintage Sooners hat. As a hat lover and Oklahoma Sooners fan myself, I'm always on the hunt for unique vintage finds to add to my collection. Vintage gear has a nostalgic feel and a story behind it that new merchandise just can't replicate. Let's explore the allure of vintage Sooners hats and how to clean and reshape your thrifted finds!

The History Behind Vintage Sooners Hats

University of Oklahoma Sooners merchandise has been around for over a century. The school colors of crimson and cream first started appearing on hats and letterman jackets in the early 1900s. Since then, Sooners fans have proudly worn all kinds of vintage gear to support their team.

Older Sooners hats from the 1950s through the 1980s have a classic, retro look that represents a different era of football fandom. Hats from the Bud Wilkinson and Barry Switzer coaching eras are especially sought after. The simple, vintage logo and fabric patches or leather straps make these timeless accessories.

Vintage hats also represent the generations of fans who cheered for their team through the best and worst of times. They connect us to the exciting history of Oklahoma football and the passionate fanbase.

Finding Vintage Sooners Hats at Thrift Stores

One of the best places to find vintage Sooners merchandise is your local thrift store. Thrifting has exploded in popularity in recent years, which means more people are donating old belongings.

Sooner hats from the 70s, 80s, and 90s will often turn up in thrift stores in college towns or places with a lot of Oklahoma alumni. Look through the hat selection carefully and check inside for tags or markings. Snapbacks and adjustable leather or fabric caps are common vintage finds.

Don't forget to glance through t-shirts, jackets, and other memorabilia for vintage Sooners gear as well. You never know what treasures you might uncover when thrifting.

Cleaning and Reshaping Vintage Hats

When you do find a great vintage Sooners hat, it will likely need some TLC. Here are some tips for cleaning and reshaping a thrifted hat.

Start by spot cleaning stains with a small amount of gentle laundry detergent or hat cleaner and a soft brush or washcloth. Rinse with clean water and allow to fully air dry.

To refresh the shape, fill a sink or large bowl with hot water. Submerge the hat and push down on the crown to flatten it out. Let it soak for at least 10 minutes so the fibers become pliable. Then use your hands to reform the shape of the crown and brim.

Lay the hat upside down on a rounded surface like a bowl to air dry. The hat will set into the new shape as it dries. You can also insert a hat stretcher inside if the crown needs more reshaping. Let it fully dry before wearing.

Caring for Your Vintage Gear

Once you've cleaned and shaped your vintage hat, you'll want to take good care of it. Always store hats in a dry, climate-controlled area, away from direct sunlight which can fade colors.

When wearing your hat, keep it away from harsh cleaning products and be careful not to crush the crown. Rotate between a few different vintage hats to give each one a break.

Consider displaying your thrifted Sooners finds at home in a shadowbox or on a hat rack. This keeps them dust-free while showing off your vintage style.

Vintage Sooners Hats Have Timeless Appeal

A vintage Sooners hat, cleaned up and proudly worn, connects you to the rich history of a storied football program. Each hat has its own unique origins and represents OU fandom through the decades.

Hunting for hidden gems at thrift stores and giving forgotten items new life is extremely rewarding. Vintage Sooners gear deserves to be displayed and appreciated for years to come.

Whether you're an Oklahoma alum, lifelong football fan, or just love vintage fashion, a vintage Sooners hat is the perfect accent piece. Here's to many more years of thrifting for vintage treasures!

FAQs

Where can I find vintage Sooners hats?

Thrift stores and vintage shops are the best places to hunt for vintage Sooners hats. Look in the hat section or anywhere they have old t-shirts and jackets. Estate sales can also have hidden gems.

How do I clean a vintage hat?

Spot clean stains gently with a small amount of detergent and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly. Submerge in hot water to reshape, then air dry on a rounded surface to reform the crown.

How often should I wear my vintage hat?

Rotate your vintage hats frequently to prevent wear and tear. Try not to wear the same hat multiple days in a row. Store in a cool, dry place when not wearing.

Can I reshape a vintage hat myself?

Yes! Soak the hat in hot water, then use your hands to reshape the crown and brim. Let air dry upside down on a rounded surface to set the new shape.

How do I display my vintage Sooners hat?

Display your hat collection proudly using a hat rack, shadowbox, or shelving unit. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading. Dust regularly.