Betmar's history goes back to the depths of the Great Depression in America. The year was 1933 - The hat business was flourishing in spite of the difficult economic times. Wearing a hat was part of every day dressing for men and women. Betmar, a new brand focused on women's millinery, was in need of a strong factory. A partnership was formed with a skilled old-line cap maker with roots dating back to 1911 in New York.

From this Betmar was born. The name chosen was taken from Betty Marks, the first designer for the hat company. Within six months Betmar blossomed at key department stores around the country. Betty Marks continued making great designs into the 1950s, and her protégé, Miss Arleen, carried the name and reputation forward for many years. Betmar is sold today in more than 15 countries and is a leader in women's headwear fashion.