shakos

Shakos are tall, cylindrical military headdresses that were worn by infantry and guard units from the early 19th century into the late 19th century, with some ceremonial use into the 20th century. They are typically made of felt or wool and sit on the head with a flat or slightly domed crown, often including a short visor or peak. A metal front plate bearing regimental insignia, along with cords, tassels, and a plume or pompon, are common decorative elements. The design was intended to present a uniform, imposing silhouette for column and line formations and for parade.

The name derives from the Hungarian csákó, a tall cylindrical hat, and the shako style spread through European armies during and after the Napoleonic Wars. Variants varied in height, brim shape, and ornamentation to indicate regiment, battalion, or rank. In many forces, the front plate and plume colors carried specific signaling meaning, and guards and elite units often wore more elaborate shakos.

Decline followed the broader shift toward more practical field headgear in the late 19th century, with peaked caps and steel helmets gradually replacing shakos for frontline service. Nevertheless, shakos remained in use for ceremonial and parade purposes in some units into the 20th century, and they are a recognizable element of 19th-century military dress. Today, replicas and replicas worn by reenactors help preserve the historical image of the shako.