Business
Fact-checked

At SmartCapitalMind, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is a Haberdashery?

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Haberdashery is not a commonly used word, and where it is used may change the definition. In the UK, a modern haberdashery usually sells needed items like buttons, thread, or ribbons, and on occasion, a store specializes in selling window draperies. In the US, people use the term to refer to men’s clothing stores or men’s departments in stores that sell accessories like gloves, ties, watches, and hats. This is more often called a men’s accessory department, and many in the US are unfamiliar with the term.

Initially, a haberdashery sold all kinds of accessories, something like a medieval five and dime store. Shoppers might find things like buttons, thread, or ribbons, commonly called notions, but such a store might also supply its customers with swords, musical instruments, or simple household items. A description of one in England in the 16th century refers to a number of things in stock: drinking implements, Jews’ Harps, birdcages, mousetraps, and shoehorns. In the US, this assortment of items might be sold in a dry goods store instead.

Haberdashers sell men's accessories, like hats and ties.
Haberdashers sell men's accessories, like hats and ties.

A haberdasher also has multiple definitions. He may be someone who works in a haberdashery, owns one, or makes the items sold in one. There are few true specialists in men’s accessories. A few employees of exclusive men’s stores may define themselves as haberdashers by trade.

Haberdashery is an odd word, somewhat fun to say, but its origin is unknown. Some suggest it comes from the French English word, hapertas, which translates to "wares" or "pretty wares." It is suggested that hapertas may have referred to a specific type of fabric that is now no longer made.

Anyone who has ever worked in a men’s clothing or accessory store in the US may have once been a haberdasher, according to its current US definition. The list of haberdashers in the past includes some interesting people. The late talk show host Johnny Carson was briefly a haberdasher. James Cook, the famous 18th century British explorer also spent a short period of time as one.

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent SmartCapitalMind contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

Learn more...
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent SmartCapitalMind contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

Learn more...

You might also Like

Discussion Comments

anon955924

A British friend of mine often used the word to describe a store that sold fabric.

anon260845

Can't help but wonder if the word is derived from the French word 'habit' meaning tail-coat, or outfit.

doppler

Normally, if you're looking to tie up loose ends, say for a wedding or formal event, a Haberdashery is the way to go. There is a lot more variety when compared with just an average accessories store for men. In addition to that, people who work in a Haberdashery (Haberdashers) can often explain in better detail the merchandise they have in stock and what it can and is used for.

anon24025

Haberdashery look- An appearance evoked by combing several tailored men’s wear prints and textures in one outfit. The jacket and shirt shapes also suggest a men’s wear look.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Haberdashers sell men's accessories, like hats and ties.
      By: Ian Bruce
      Haberdashers sell men's accessories, like hats and ties.