Yet another well-deserved honor came Johnny Depp’s way this week as he was selected to be one of the first inductees into the newly-inaugurated Headwear Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame is a project created by industry leaders to celebrate the 100th anniversary of The Headwear Association, and its purpose is “to recognize the positive influence of famous hat wearers on headwear fashion.” The first inductees–three men and three women–were chosen by the membership for “their impact on the evolution of hat wearing and fashion,” and they represent both the present day and past trendsetters. The first six inductees of the Headwear Hall of Fame are: Jackie Kennedy, Johnny Depp, Madonna, Princess Diana, Samuel L. Jackson and football coach Vince Lombardi.

To be considered for the Headwear Hall of Fame, nominees had to be known “to wear hats in their personal lives” and not simply as part of their work–for example, portraying a character on television, stage or in a movie. “The Headwear Association chose these trend setters as our first inductees into the Headwear Hall of Fame because they support the proactive and fashionable wearing of hats,” said Bob Broner, president of The Headwear Association. “Whether a star in politics, sports or in the movies, these celebrities have served as unofficial hat ambassadors showcasing popular hats of their time.”

The Zone thanks Theresa for sharing the news; you can read more about the Headwear Hall of Fame on the Pit forum. Winners will be formally inducted into the Headwear Hall of Fame during The Headwear Association’s annual gala dinner on Thursday, March 19, 2009, at Tavern on the Green in New York City. –Part-Time Poet