I believe the outlandish decorations of 18th century hats (feathers, etc) were called "macaroni" and generally taken a symbols of upper class status. Philip Lord, Jr. Director, Division of Museum Services New York State Museum Albany, NY >>> [log in to unmask] 06/24/00 08:59AM >>> While we're on the topic, why was sticking a feather in his cap called macaroni? Steve MacDougall