The Hatpin Menace

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The evolution of the hatpin from a simple accessory to a fashionable necessity and controversial weapon highlights its significance in women's fashion between 1887 and 1920. As hairstyles and hats grew larger, so did the hatpins, leading to debates over their use. While some women employed hatpins for self-defense, others misused them in violent encounters, illustrating the dual nature of this seemingly innocuous item and its impact on societal perceptions of women's safety and agency.