The Hat Shop Type of Place: Hat Shops Description: Did you know that cigarette holders were invented for women with veils on their hats? Or that what kind of hat will suit you is based in part on the circumference of your head? Linda Pagan, owner of Thompson Street's charming and well-curated The Hat Shop, explains that "we sell two things here: hats made from exquisite materials and everything we know about them." The shop has been in this location since 1995 and represents 35 milliners, 95% of whom are in NYC (the hat boxes, too, are made in Brooklyn). Its offerings tend to range from $150 to $350, with one quarter of its sales from custom orders and customer service a main priority. As a result of this focus, word-of-mouth is strong and the shop uses no advertising budget at all. It does, however, cultivate a lighthearted, personal atmosphere ("Running a shop is like throwing a party, except you're not sure exactly who's invited or when they're arriving," says Pagan), complete with photos of its milliners on display. With help from Jillian, a sweet-natured (and hat-wearing) shop assistant, I looked around and admired the wares. A sharp black-and-white houndstooth fedora was a hugely reasonable $68; a green and copper cloche with a subtle brim from Abigail Aldridge was $188. I fell totally in love with a navy blue felt fedora decorated with gold safety pins from Ryan Wilde ($248); and a beaded cloche from Nini K ($478) demonstrated beautiful handiwork. In every detail, you can tell you're dealing with experts here. Pagan chatted knowingly about what types of hat would (or would not) suit me as I wandered appreciatively among the creations; their materials are obviously chosen and assembled with care. How great to know that a place like this still exists: a hat shop in the grand tradition, featuring hats raised to the level of art and sellers who know their stuff. Jolie chapeau, anyone? Now you know where to look. -Pamela Grossman; Jan 28, 2007 The Hat Shop 120 Thompson St New York, NY 10012 (212) 219-1445 |
