| The word Bonnet derives from the same word in Old French, where it originally indicated a type of material. The word has been used and is currently used for various types of headgear for both sexes. The origin of the word is from coif, which is a close fitting hat that covers the top, back, and sides of the head, and worn by all classes in England and Scotland from the Middle Ages to the early seventeenth century. Only a few types of headgear are still referred to as bonnets, those worn by infants and Scottish soldiers. The most common baby bonnets worn today have a soft head covering, which is shaped similar to those worn by women (covering the hair and ears, but not the forehead). The most famous of these childrens bonnets is the hankie (sometimes spelled hanky), which is either worn when the infant comes home from the hospital or at the child's Baptism, Christening or Naming Ceremony. The bonnet is stored until the child grows up and then returns as a handkerchief (something old) for the bride or the boys fiance to use in their wedding bouquet. Take a moment to enjoy four versions of the Hankie Bonnet Poem and start your own family traditions! |
