Christys' & Co Ltd
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‘Wearing a Christy’s Hat means wearing something extremely special and individual… The best dressed should never be without one.’
Established in Scotland in 1773, heritage brand Christys’ Hats is synonymous with the finest craftsmanship and quality in hat making. From Trilbys and Fedoras, to traditional English and Scottish tweed flat caps, legendary bowlers, top hats and the finest quality Ecuadorian Panamas hand blocked and finished in the UK; this iconic British brand is one of the few companies in the world still making hats in the traditional way. Christy’s Hats has been nurtured with a passion and commitment to quality for over 200 years, making it one of the most desirable hat brands across the globe.
Christy’s Hats set up their own silk hat manufacturers in London towards the end of the 18th century. Shortly after this, they also set up a hat manufacturer in Stockport, where the focus was on producing wool and fur felt hats. By 1843, Christy’s was the largest hat and cap making factory in the world. The Christy reputation steadily grew, and remained strong, both pre and post-war. The iconic Winston Churchill was often seen sporting a Christy’s Hat. Princess Diana’s love of hats marked a relaunch of the brand and as recently as the 1990’s Christy’s Hats were marketed at the affluent lady or gentlemen, often with an equestrian vibe.
The ‘Godfather Hat’ – worn by Don Corleone in the Godfather films, is in fact the ‘Homburg Hat’ made by Christy’s Hats.
In 2000, the millennium year, the Christy Hats prestige was cemented when they won a tender to supply hats to the palace. In 2010, Christy Hats launched their Christy Crown collection, a fashion-led label which gives a contemporary spin on British tradition.
Christy’s Hats are now seen on the catwalks of London, Paris and New York for designers including Paul Smith, Kenzo, Farrell and Margaret Howell. While have been worn by the British Royal Family, they also have a cult celebrity following; Brad Pitt, Justin Timberlake, Usher (Christys’ Crown Basix), Tinie Tempah (Bowler), Paolo Nutini, Johnny Depp (Fedora), Paloma Faith, Cheryl Cole (Christys’ Crown Nimbin) and Kate Moss (Wide Brim Fedora).
Christy’s Hats have been featured in some of the leading international fashion publications including Vogue, Glamour, Brides and Grazia, with their original fusion of traditional methods and fun, street fashion vibe.
The future can only look bright for this iconic heritage brand as it continues to create fashion-led excellence.
