Heritage Hat Making in Luton
At Emily-London, we are proud to carry forward the rich legacy of heritage hat making, where tradition and innovation meet. Our recent visit to Luton, the historic home of millinery, offered a deeper appreciation for the artistry, craftsmanship, and sustainable values that define the world of handcrafted hats.
Traditional Craftsmanship & Artistry
The journey of each Emily-London piece begins with a vision, transformed into reality through the expert hands of our hat block makers. During our visit, we collaborated closely with these skilled artisans to design the wooden forms, or blocks, that dictate the size, shape, and silhouette of our final creations. Whether starting from a detailed sketch or a handmade model, the wooden blocks are individually crafted to ensure the perfect foundation for each hat.
Additionally, we explored the use of metal hot blocks, a technique steeped in traditional craftsmanship. These tools allow us to shape hats on a larger scale without compromising the couture-level quality of our designs. This intimate process, from concept to completion, is a testament to the timeless artistry of millinery.
Preserving the Legacy of Millinery
The preservation of heritage hat making is at the heart of what we do. Luton’s millinery community is home to generations of tradespeople dedicated to keeping traditional skills alive. Our visit underscored the invaluable efforts of these craftsmen and women, who tirelessly transfer their knowledge to younger generations.
Many of our suppliers are not only experts in their craft but also stewards of history. They preserve and reintroduce vintage materials while innovating with contemporary techniques, ensuring that the art of handcrafted hats remains vibrant and relevant. Their expertise enriches our work and helps us stay connected to the legacy of millinery.
Sustainability & Quality
Sustainability is intrinsic to heritage hat making. Our commitment to quality and longevity ensures that each Emily-London hat is an investment in timeless style. During our trip, we worked with straw suppliers who collaborate directly with weavers to create the finest millinery straws, woven with care and precision. By sourcing only the highest-quality materials, we celebrate the sustainable beauty of craftsmanship.
We also visited suppliers offering a wide range of traditional and modern materials, some of which are increasingly rare. The dedication of Luton’s artisans to reviving these materials and processes aligns with our values of sustainability and respect for tradition.
At Emily-London, we take sustainability one step further. Our in-house dye specialist uses couture techniques to hand-match colours for our hats and headpieces, ensuring precision while minimising waste. This meticulous approach reflects our belief in creating pieces that last a lifetime.
Honouring the Past, Creating for the Future
Our suppliers are not just collaborators—they are custodians of the art, history, and soul of traditional craftsmanship. Their work enables us to celebrate the enduring legacy of heritage hat making while creating contemporary designs that resonate with our clients worldwide.
From preserving the artistry of handcrafted hats to prioritising sustainability and innovation, we are proud to honour the traditions of millinery while shaping its future.
