What is a Hip Flask?
Liquor flasks are small flat bottles, usually rectangular in shape.
Originally fashioned from leather or glass they are now most often made
of metal and gently curved to fit naturally against the body while
riding in a gentleman's trouser pocket. Also known as a hip flask or
flask and used to hold an invigorating beverage of the owners choice,
flasks have long been considered indispensable by their discerning
carriers.
History of Liquor Flasks
Although humans have surely been improvising portable beverage
containers for as long as they've been moving from place to place, the
flask as we know it gained fame in the 18th century. First employed by
travelers on long journeys, the hip flask was soon embraced by dandy
young men of the landed class. Initially crafted from sterling silver or
pewter and richly engraved, flasks quickly became the constant
companions of the aristocracy, accompanying them on trips to neighboring
houses, horseback excursions, hunting expeditions and even to war. In
Britain's Royal Air Force the term hip flask is still slang for a
sidearm. These antique flasks were often given as gifts and are highly
collectable. In the United States, the 1920s era of Prohibition brought
the flask back to prominence. Men and women who desired a drink were
forced to imbibe discreetly. During this period after the First World
War, known as the Jazz Age, women cut their hair and shortened their
skirts, young men chased them and everyone danced all night in a
celebration of life. Flasks are still associated with their romantic past.
Modern Use of Hip Flasks
Modern hip flasks are generally made of stainless steel. A steel flask
is durable, the attached cap prevents loss and the metal imparts no
taste to the beverage within. Carried extensively by servicemen of all
stripes during the Second World War and following conflicts, the flask
is still prized by members of the armed forces, who recognize that
finding a drink isn't always as easy as running down to the nearest
liquor store. While today's flask is just as likely carried by a rugged
outdoorsman on fishing, hunting, camping or hiking trips, the flask
still retains its aura of sophistication. Stainless flasks are often
engraved with logos or insignia or embellished with leather accents.
They can be personalized with engraving after purchase. Whether filled
with single-malt Scotch or displayed as a cherished keepsake, a flask
makes a memorable liquor gift.
Hip Flask
s Today
Usually small in capacity, only six to eight liquid ounces on average,
flasks were never intended to fuel a party. Instead, the purpose of a
flask was to provide warmth and comfort in times of trouble or to
propose a toast among friends on a joyous occasion. In that spirit, hip
flasks are most popular as gifts among men celebrating momentous events.
In today's world, hip flasks are fashionable as gifts from a soon to be
married man to his best man and groomsmen. Elegant and utilitarian, a
flask pays tribute to days gone by while honoring the event to come.
Sure to be treasured by the recipient, a flask is also useful for
sharing a quick toast before striding down the aisle. Collectible and
utilitarian, a liquor flask conjures the magic of a vanished time,
ensuring your wedding will be both unique and timeless. |
