The bowler hat, or derby as it's also known, was originally created in the 1800's and became popular initially with the working-class during the Victorian era, and later with middle and upper classes. In the United States, the bowler hat or derby hat became one of the most popular styles of hat for men. In fact, the bowler hat was the initial inspiration for the cowboy Western hat, which initially featured a rounded top. Since then, the bowler rose in popularity in pop culture, with icons such as Charlie Chaplin bringing it to the forefront.