Hot rod headgear

Throughout the late '50s and '60s the California coast was all abuzz — racing hot rods was the name of the game and Kenneth "Von Dutch" Howard was the man with the paint. Celebrated for single-handedly reviving the art of pinstriping hot rods, Von Dutch's flying eyeball logo became the icon of the street rod crowd.

Now, 11 years after his death, the man, known for his influence on young blue-collar America, has become a fashion icon. The Von Dutch logo is everywhere, quickly becoming the defining status symbol of cool. From New York to L.A., Seattle to Miami the classic Von Dutch trucker hat has been atop the heads of every A-lister, B-lister and D-lister alike.

Unfortunately, many young Von Dutch-wearing hipsters have no idea about the significance of the name on their head. And the price of being cool doesn't come cheap. The signature mesh hat with logo will run you about $45. The leather and mesh hat will set you back $85. If you must have the headdress of the moment, then look at it as an investment: As those who own Von Dutch originals know, that hat might become your nest egg. But don't count your chickens before they hatch, young scenesters.

For store locations and to purchase merchandise, visit www.vondutch.com. If you have a tip or have noticed a trend you think our resident fashionista should know, e-mail your comments to product@creativeloafing.com.