Can you supply any type of historical shako or hat?

As our specialism concentrates on the Napoleonic Wars, we are more confident of answering ‘Yes’ to that question for anything dating between 1795 – 1815. However, we have produced headdress for the Crimean War period too and welcome inquiries based on what you’re looking for even if it’s not Napoleonic.

Do you exclusively make British hats?

We have recently branched out into creating Napoleonic-period French, Brunswick and Dutch shakos so are very willing to consider your enquiry based on the construction methods, materials needed and research required.

Do you supply shako plates and hat accessories?

All our hats are supplied fully-furnished with the correct plumes, cords, tassels, cockades and buttons. If you are looking to portray a particular regiment, Company or rank please contact us for the historically accurate accessories.

How long does delivery take?

For basic requirements we aim to turn orders around within three weeks. Special orders (such as regimental-specific shako plates) may take longer due to sourcing or research requirements. However, we will always advise you of a realistic lead time and accurate quote before construction is started.

Why can’t I make an order directly from the website?

Whether it’s a standard infantryman’s Belgic shako or an officer’s Bicorne hat, very piece we make is bespoke for the customer – therefore we need to find out exactly what it is you require before starting construction. Statements such as ‘Small’, ‘Medium’ and ‘Large’ or ‘One Size Fits All’ don’t achieve our goal of bringing you a well-fitting, well-constructed and accurate item of historical headgear. So we insist upon contact first to ensure you are happy everything is just how you want it!

Do you require a deposit?

As a rule we request a 50% deposit when you confirm your order, and the final balance is due upon completion. After full payment has been made your hat will be despatched as soon as possible.

Contact Details
Our physical address is:

‘Toad Shakos’,
7 Baird Avenue,
Blackwood,
Lanarkshire,
Scotland,
ML11 9RU,
UK

But you can also contact us via the contact form

Telephone: 01555 892714
Mobile: 07786 432811

And please don’t forget to ‘Like’ our page on Facebook. Many customers choose to post photographs of our products on there so it’s a good way of regularly seeing the sorts of hats we can make!