Use
In the mid to late 19th century, hats became a channel to express one's individuality, and women were emboldened to exercise their artistic talents in home millinery projects.
Feathers from exotic birds began appearing on hats in the late 19th century. The higher social status, the more feathers one wanted. This eventually led to entire birds being extravagantly displayed on the hats of the high-ranking society ladies. However, when the Audubon Society formed in 1905, they began applying pressure to stop the use of birds, and even feathers, in millinery.