Inspired by the Jenny Joseph poem that begins: "when I am an old woman I shall wear purple/with a red hat that doesn't suit me," Sue Ellen Cooper bought herself a red hat. Soon it became her signature gift for friends turning 50. In 2000, Cooper and her friends formed the Red hat Society, whose only rule is no rules-it's simply a play group encouraging woman over 50 to have fun, support each other, and find kindrid spirits.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.5 based on 14 reviews)

A terrific read, even for guys

As a 50-year-old guy, I'm not in the typical demographic for this book. Nevertheless, I found it to be a real hoot.

The Red Hat Society started in 1996 as a sort of joke between frieds. Sue Allen Cooper had read Jenny Joseph's poem, "Warning" which threatened all sorts of self-indulgent and unladylike behavior -- including wearing purple clothes and red hats -- when she grew old enough to get away with it. Cooper started giving red hats to her friends as they turned 50. The silliness and liberation that this unleashed quickly became contagious. In a few months, the idea of forming rule-less girls-only clubs had spread across the country and around the world. The joy, release and sisterhood that these women have found is very inspiring and fun to watch. Rather than making middle- and old age a thing to dread, these women have found joy and camaraderie in their later years.

The book tells of the story of the group and divulges the homemade rituals and customs of this fabulous "disorganization" It gives helpful tips on how to form a group of one's own, and of all things that go along with being a Red Hatter - the regal wave, the motto, the song, the vows and regalia.

I truly enjoyed the freewheeling wackiness that has been a hallmark of the group from the beginning. The group names are a riot - "The Scarlett O'Hattas," "The Red Hat Tamales," and the "Ladies of the Purple Sage" are just a few of the whimsical names that the women have given themselves. Not to mention the personal titles! Women are bestowing upon themselves titles from Lady to Queen and everything in between. "Countess Can't-be-bothered" and "Lady Lie-about" were two of my favorites.

The Red Hat Society is a breath of fresh air and sisterhood to what can bee a depressing and lonely stage in a woman's life. The Red Hatters are giving themselves permission to get old, permission to age gracefully and permission to bring joy into their own lives.

You go, Highnesses!
October 28, 2006

Do not recommend

This book is full of typos; what happened to proofreading...is that a lost art/job?

This book is also a good example of what Andy Rooney spoke of; authors making thousands on the backs of others. Nothing is original by the author in this book; it is merely a compliation of the works of others. You would think at least, since the author did have to compose anything, she could have at least proofread it.
August 05, 2006

The Red Hat Society (TM): Fun and Friendship After Fifty

This is a wonderful book for those ladies approaching the dramatic age of "50". It's uplifting, funny and positively great for boosting morale. Almost like turning 21 again! We have a new look on life and plan to strut with our Red Hats often. Already my friends and I have chartered our membership and have officially named ourselves the "Fabulous Diva D'Lites". An article was printed recently in our local newspaper with a photo of our Queen Mum and all the Divas! So far, we've had a ball! I highly recommend this book...
March 23, 2006

From QueenLadyInPurple...great idea, lots of fun...

I have heard of this 'movement' for several years, and finally started my own chapter...but I guess its going to be slow-going cause no one has joined me yet...but I will continue to wear my purple, plus my red hats...and maybe those I invited will loosen up for some nice fun times...thanks for this book...it was a source of encouragement; gave me the guts to go for it...so give my Chapter a gander...join the Rockin' n Rollin' Reds in Arvada, CO. Way to go, Queen Sue Ellen!
February 20, 2006

Great Fun Read

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Light hearted good fun with lots of ideas for Red Hat Ladies.
Loved the section on the names.
September 23, 2005

SIMILAR PRODUCTS

The Red Hat Society(R)'s Laugh Lines: Stories of Inspiration and Hattitude
by Sue Ellen Cooper

Warning: When I Am an Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple
by Jenny Joseph

The Red Hat Society Cookbook
by The Red Hat Society

Red Hat Society(R)'s Acting Their Age
by Regina Sutherland

Red Hat Society's Domestic Goddess
by Regina Hale Sutherland