rush grass gentleman hat

Rush Grass Gentleman Hat

Driven by colonial-era consumer culture and export demand, Taiwan’s rush grass weaving industry grew rapidly. Large quantities of rush grass products were exported to Japan and overseas markets, and gentleman hats in particular became a key export item due to their compatibility with Western-style fashion trends, resulting in significant production volumes and establishing the strong foundation of Yuanli’s rush grass industry.

More than just an accessory, the gentleman hat symbolized social status and the transformation of lifestyle during that era. Although it was gradually replaced by other materials with industrialization, the craftsmanship and cultural memory it carries continue to this day.

For Yuanli, rush grass is not only a legacy of the past but also a living craft with future potential. Through contemporary design applications, we hope to bring this material back into daily life and keep its natural fragrance and handmade spirit alive.

The Vanishing Rush Grass Craft

All rush grass products are handcrafted by artisans in Yuanli. In the past, rush grass was a vital local industry, forming a complete production chain—from cultivation and post-harvest processing to weaving, finishing, and distribution—that supported generations of families in Yuanli.

With the rise of the petrochemical industry, textile manufacturing gradually replaced traditional grass weaving. Rush grass fields have steadily declined, and the weaving craftsmanship has been fading as master artisans age and pass on.

For Yuanli, rush grass is not only a symbol of past prosperity, but also an important craft with future potential. By integrating rush grass weaving into contemporary products and everyday life, we hope to carry its natural fragrance forward and keep this heritage moving with Yuanli.