Field Notes

Aug 17, 2023
Imperial Headwear Named ‘The Official Headwear of CityPickle’
Imperial has been announced as “The Official Headwear of CityPickle.” CityPickle is the home for pickleball in urban cities across the U.S. Imperial is quickly earning renown in the world of pickleball. Earlier this year they were named “The Official Licensed Headwear of Major League Pickleball”.
CityPickle offers several locations across New York City, including professional courts in Wollman Rink inCentral Park and ongoing activations in destinations such as Hudson Yards, Industry City, Union Squareand more. In September 2023, CityPickle will open permanent indoor locations in Long Island City andalso expand to Philadelphia.
Imperial is proud to set roots in pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the world and in the largest metrocity in the United States. As a supporter of pickleball and a trusted partner of CityPickle, we’re honored to be named their ‘Official Headwear’ and to create this curated product offering for their organization and fans of pickleball everywhere.
David Shaffer, Senior Vice President of Sales at Imperial
With the Imperial x CityPickle partnership comes the release of a limited edition e-commerce collection on Imperial1916.com. Featured products include Imperial performance visors, rope caps, bucket hats andmore. For pickleball fans that do not live in the New York area, you can own a piece of the action by goingto the Imperial x CityPickle collection online.
We’re thrilled to partner with Imperial to offer the best in class headwear for the CityPickle community,available in our pro shops and available online for the first time.
Lydia Hirt, Chief Marketing Officer of CityPickle
About CityPickle
CityPickle is New York City's home for pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the United States. CityPickle partnered with Wollman Rink and is operating a 14 court installation in Central Park from April to mid-October, the largest pickleball offering in the Northeast. This summer, the brand will launch the first pickleball club in the City with the opening of its first permanent location in Long Island City, which combines climate-controlled courts with a full bar and restaurant, making it the ideal indoor destination to connect and spend quality time with friends, family and colleagues alike. The brand continues to partner with high-profile destinations, including Hudson Yards, Union Square, Industry City and Philadelphia City Hall.
Read More

Aug 04, 2023
All About Ladies Small Fit Golf Hats for Women
Small fit hats are a stylish accessory that come in a range of styles and designs, making them extremely versatile and fun. Whether you want to protect your hair and head from the sun, wind, or rain or you want to add some flair and personality to your outfit, there’s a small fit hat for you.
Let’s explore the different styles of small fit hats for men and women and how to choose the best one for your needs and preferences. From bucket hats to high crown hats, visors and everything in between, Imperial has an option for everyone. Read on to find out more about the wonderful world of small fit hats!
What is a Small Fit Hat?
A small fit hat is exactly what it sounds like – an accessory made specifically for those with smaller heads.
Fashion is all about expressing your unique personality and style. When it comes to accessorizing, small fit hats have taken the fashion world by storm, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any outfit. These stylish hats are specifically designed for ladies or men with petite heads, ensuring a perfect fit that complements their features effortlessly.
Exploring Small Fit Ladies Hat Styles and Designs
There are many types of small fit hats for ladies, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Bucket hats: Bucket hats are soft, brimmed hats that have a downward-sloping brim that covers the entire head. They're usually made of cotton, denim or canvas and come in various colors and patterns. Bucket hats are casual and versatile and can be worn with any outfit. Small sun hats for ladies like bucket hats are also easy to pack and carry, as they can be folded or rolled up without losing their shape.
Performance hats: Performance hats are hats that are specially designed for sports and fitness activities. They're usually made of lightweight, breathable and moisture-wicking materials that keep the head cool and dry. Performance hats often have features such as adjustable straps, mesh panels or reflective details.
Visors: Visors like our Tour Visor® are hats that have a brim at the front but no crown or top. They're usually made of plastic, foam, or fabric and have an elastic band or a hook-and-loop closure at the back. Visors are simple and elegant and can be worn with any hairstyle. They're also convenient and practical – they allow the head to breathe and the hair to stay in place.
Rope caps: Rope caps are hats that have a rope or a cord running across the front of the brim. They're usually made of cotton, wool or polyester and have a snapback or a buckle closure at the back. Rope caps are trendy and fashionable and can be customized with logos, patches or embroidery. They're also fun and playful, as they add a touch of texture and contrast to the hat.
These are some of the different styles of small fit hats for ladies that you can choose from. Each one has its own charm and appeal, so you can find the one that suits your personality and preference. Whether you want to be casual or formal, sporty or chic, there is a small fit hat for you!
Tips for Wearing Small Fit Womens Hats
Small fit hats offer a unique style, fit and flair, so make the most of this accessory the next time you’re ready to hit the town. Here are some tips for wearing a small fit hat and making it uniquely you.
1. Choose the Right Fit: When shopping for small fit hats, make sure to measure your head accurately to ensure a comfortable fit. Look for adjustable options or hats with elastic bands that allow for customization.
2. Balance Proportions: Consider your facial features and hair length when selecting a small fit hat. If you have shorter hair, a hat with a smaller brim or one that sits higher on the head can create a flattering balance. If you have longer hair, try tucking it into a low bun or letting it flow loosely for a chic and effortless look.
3. Pair with Confidence: Small hats for ladies and men can be worn with a variety of outfits to elevate your style. Pair a stylish high crown hat with a vintage-inspired dress for a nostalgic feel, or wear a performance hat with jeans, a polo and a luxurious golf belt for a trendy and casual look.
Small Fit Ladies Hats From Imperial for Every Season
Small fit hats are not just limited to a specific season. With the right choice of materials and designs, they can be incorporated into your wardrobe all year round. Opt for lightweight fabrics like straw or cotton for spring and summer and choose wool or felt hats for fall and winter, adding warmth and style to your ensemble.
The Kona Small Fit Performance Cap is a stylish and comfortable cap that’s perfect for those with smaller head sizes. The cap is made from high-quality materials and features a moisture-wicking sweatband that helps keep you cool and dry during even the most intense workouts. Look and feel your best in this bright, colorful and vibrant cap.
Shop the Kona Small Fit Performance Cap
The Matilda Lightweight Small Fit Performance Cap is another great option for those with smaller head sizes. This cap is designed to be lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, running or golfing.Keep it simple and structured with this option, putting the emphasis on your physical performance – playing pickleball, on the golf course or beyond.
Shop the Matilda Lightweight Small Fit Performance Cap
The Small Fit Performance Phoenix Visor is a stylish and comfortable visor that’s perfect for those that want a fitted hat that feels just right. Sun protection hats for women like this visor are made from high-quality materials and feature a moisture-wicking sweatband that helps keep you cool and dry during even the most intense workouts. Keep it cool, casual and comfortable with a clean cap like this one.
Shop the Small Fit Performance Phoenix Visor
Craft Your Own Women’s Golf Hat
Are you tired of wearing the same old hats as everyone else? Do you want to stand out from the crowd and show off your unique style and personality? We’ve got the cap for you.
With our custom small fit hats, you can create a hat that is truly one-of-a-kind. Choose from a wide range of colors, styles and designs to create a hat that matches your unique personality and sense of style. Whether you’re looking for a hat for your next golf outing or just want to add some flair to your everyday wardrobe, Imperial has you covered.
So why wait? Start designing your custom small fit hat today and show the world what makes you unique.
Find the Fit That’s Right for You
Fitted hats for small heads are a delightful fashion accessory that bring a touch of elegance and playfulness to any outfit. Their perfect fit ensures comfort and enhances your overall style, making them a must-have in every fashion-forward woman's wardrobe.
From classic visors to bucket hats and sun hats, there's a style to suit every occasion and personal taste. So go ahead, embrace your unique style and let these small fit hats be the crowning glory of your fashion journey.
Read More

Jul 24, 2023
Paramount Announces Rebranding to Imperial
After 94 years of unparalleled success, Paramount Apparel International has made the significant decision to rebrand itself and proudly introduce Imperial as its new corporate name. This symbolic change comes as part of our commitment to our flagship brand “Imperial” and an effort to continuously evolve, adapt, and meet the demands of an ever-changing market landscape.
As we embark on this exciting new chapter of our organization, it is essential to acknowledge and honor the foundation upon which our Company was built. Paramount, a name that has become synonymous with quality and trust, will forever be ingrained in our history. Our success story began with Paramount, and it has shaped our values, expertise, and legacy.
Imperial represents a natural progression for our Company, allowing us to celebrate our heritage while embracing our vision for the future. This rebranding signifies our evolution from being solely a manufacturer to becoming a significant consumer and trade brand known for our exquisite product, innovative solutions, exceptional customer service, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Todd Johnson, CEO of Imperial
The decision to transition from Paramount to Imperial was taken with careful consideration. We believe that as Imperial, we are better positioned to solidify our brand identity, operate as a team of one, expand our reach to new markets, and forge new connections in an ever-evolving marketplace. Behind the rebranding initiative lies our firm belief that our success has foundations not just in what we produce, but in the trust, loyalty, and satisfaction we cultivate amongst our customers.
With the rebranding, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, reliability, and integrity,” continued Johnson. “As we transition to Imperial, our customers can rest assured that we will maintain the same unwavering focus on their needs, ensuring the highest level of satisfaction, and exceeding expectations at every turn.”
Paramount acquired the Imperial brand in late 2012, which had been based in the greater Denver, Colorado-area since 1916 and previously had several owners over the course of its almost 100-year existence. In 2013, Paramount closed its Denver office and moved all Imperial operations to Missouri. Over the past 10 years, the Imperial brand has experienced explosive growth in several channels, including the green grass golf market. Golf partnerships and affiliations also include the PGA of America, PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, United States Golf Association, and American Junior Golf Association.
While our name may change, our core values, vision, and dedication will remain deeply rooted in the company culture. Imperial will be a symbol of our unwavering allegiance to the generations of customers who have entrusted us with their business. As we embark on this transformative journey, we thank all our loyal customers, team members, and stakeholders who have played an invaluable part in making Paramount what it is today. Together, we look forward to an exciting future as Imperial—a brand that not only represents our success but also defines our commitment to excellence—for the next 100 years and beyond.
For more information, please visit our new website at imperial1916.com.
Read More

Jul 21, 2023
Imperial Announces 2024 Collection
Click here to view a digital catalog of Imperial’s 2024 new arrivals.
Imperial debuted the 2024 collection of new headwear, apparel and accessories to sales representatives earlier this month. The collection features bold new directions in product development for the brand, including the Lab Series Collection, innovative new headwear styles and a new line of premium tees, sweatshirts and belts.
The Imperial Lab Series is an experimental new collection that boasts elevated performance fabrics, unique trims and advanced details that seamlessly merge style, comfort and functionality. In partnership with NuYarn® fabrics, this lineup of caps features the first performance merino wool sweatband. It’s naturally anti-microbial, moisture-wicking and thermoregulating. The crown of each style in the Lab Series, The Alpha, The Capstone and The Dyno, has a memory structure that will bounce back to its original shape to prevent crushing, and moisture wicking fabrics throughout keep the wearer cool and dry. Reflective accents, buoyant visor boards and stylized, breathable perforation make the new Lab Series ideal for the beach, the mountains, the golf course and everywhere in between.
“Everything we design is intentionally built upon the foundation of being a high quality, sustainable and purpose driven brand. Customers are demanding more out of their headwear than ever before. The Lab Series is just the latest in our continuous efforts to deliver products that can appeal to a wide audience that values quality craftsmanship and unwavering attention to detail.”
Dan Parenti, SVP of marketing and product development
Imperial’s emergence into the world apparel and accessories is fortified this season by the release of several new styles of premium tees, sweatshirts and belts. The Aprés collection of tees are designed to complement the high quality and impeccable design of all Imperial headwear. Four new silhouettes are now available (a men’s short sleeve, long sleeve, hooded tee and a ladies tee) featuring long staple USA cotton fabric and fine double needlework with high stitch counts and clean finishing throughout. These premium tees follow the release of Imperial’s new line of super-soft, midweight fleece sweatshirts, The Alpine and The Bonfire which are able to be customized with traditional embroidery, screen printing or Imperial’s new heat applied felt appliqué letters.
Our focus this season was to not only lead the golf industry with innovative headwear but also expand our casual apparel offering. Imperial customers demand high quality, custom logo, quick turn products. We are expanding our options for what they need and what their customers are looking for in a pro shop right now.
David Shaffer, SVP of Sales
Other notable highlights from Imperial’s 2024 collection include:• Colorful Organic Prints
Freshwater and saltwater themes can be found throughout the 2024 line by Imperial, along with tropical floral patterns like those found on new style The Outtasite. Creative micro prints comprised of fly fishing lures, colorful trout patterns and sublimated swordfish are featured on The Easy Read unstructured 5-panel, The Passenger Side mesh back style and The Golden Hour rope cap, all made from OekoTex® certified recycled poly fabric.
• Innovative New Fabrics
Imperial has an extraordinary selection of headwear options designed to keep you comfortable in the great outdoors. The Live Wire, is a colorful new 5-panel rope cap style crafted from a durable, poly ripstop mono mesh fabric, available in eight sublimated prints. Also new for this year is The Aperture, a 6-panel style also available in a Meshback version, is constructed from a unique, grid pattern performance fabric with a micro perforation which is both breathable and moisture wicking.
• Exciting Variations
Variety is the spice of life and Imperial accomplishes that in strides with new additions like The Independent, a rope-less version of best-selling style The Wingman. Ladies now have The Corral, a highly anticipated small fit rope cap style offered in eight pastel color options. Last but not least is the athletic new silhouette of The Imperial 7, a 100% recycled performance fabric 5-panel rope cap designed with the pickleball enthusiast in mind.
• More Color Options for Best Sellers
The Original Performance and The Wrightson are the two best-selling headwear styles in golf, hands down. Imperial has injected new life into these styles, along with several other best sellers, by adding an earth tone color pallet of Buckthorn Brown, a rich, warm, orange-brown color and Olive. Both of these new colors are being folded into several cotton and performance fabric styles with OekoTex® sustainability certification.
Read More