Every hat we create tells a story. Working from our London workshop, we shape felt, straw, and fabric into headwear that reflects individual style. Each piece begins with careful selection of materials sourced from established suppliers across Europe. Our process involves traditional blocking techniques combined with contemporary finishing methods.
The craft requires patience. A single hat passes through multiple stages: pattern cutting, steaming, shaping, and hand-stitching. We work with natural fibres including wool felt from Portugal, sinamay from the Philippines, and cotton from Italy. These materials respond differently to handling, requiring specific techniques developed through years of practice.
Our workshop accommodates both classic designs and custom requests. Clients visit to discuss proportions, brim width, crown height, and trim details. Some prefer understated pieces for daily wear, while others commission statement hats for special occasions. We maintain detailed records of head measurements and style preferences, ensuring consistency across multiple orders.
The London millinery tradition spans centuries, and we honour that heritage while adapting to modern tastes. Our collection includes fedoras, cloches, wide-brimmed sun hats, and fascinators. Each style requires different construction methods and finishing touches. We also offer restoration services for vintage pieces, carefully preserving original character while addressing structural issues.
Quality control happens at every stage. We inspect materials upon arrival, monitor shaping during production, and examine finished pieces before delivery. This attention to detail ensures durability alongside aesthetic appeal. Proper care extends a hat's lifespan significantly, and we provide specific maintenance guidance with each purchase.
Real experiences from people who chose our handcrafted hats
I ordered a custom fedora for my wedding and the result exceeded all expectations. The milliner took time to understand exactly what I wanted, sent photos during the process, and delivered two weeks before the date. The craftsmanship is exceptional – you can see the quality in every stitch. The hat received more compliments than my dress! Worth every penny and I'll definitely be ordering again for special occasions.
Good quality hat, fits well. Delivery took slightly longer than initially quoted but they kept me informed. Would have appreciated more colour options for the ribbon, but overall satisfied with the purchase.
Absolutely stunning work! My cloche hat is perfect for autumn walks. The felt quality is superb and it holds its shape beautifully even in rain.
Decent hat for the price. The materials feel authentic and the construction is solid. Communication could be better – sometimes took a day or two to get responses. The final product meets expectations, though I expected slightly finer detail work given the price point. Still, it's a proper handmade item and I wear it regularly.
I run a vintage clothing shop and needed period-accurate hats for photoshoots. After trying several suppliers, I found Xesuhe and haven't looked back. They understand historical details that others miss – the crown height, brim width, even the way ribbons are tied matters for authenticity. I've ordered five hats so far, each one perfect. Their knowledge of millinery history is impressive and they're happy to work from reference photos. Pricing is fair considering the specialist skills involved. Highly recommend for anyone needing historically accurate pieces.
The consultation process was thorough and professional. They measured my head properly and explained different styles that would suit my face shape. My panama hat arrived exactly as discussed – lightweight, breathable, and perfectly fitted. Great for summer.
Nice hat, good materials. The price seemed a bit high initially, but after wearing it for a few months I understand the value. It's held up much better than cheaper alternatives I've bought before. Would be nice to have more customisation options for embellishments.
Brilliant service from start to finish. My trilby is exactly what I wanted and the turnaround time was faster than promised!
I have a medical condition that makes finding comfortable hats difficult. Most ready-made ones cause pressure headaches. The team here listened carefully to my needs and created a wide-brimmed sun hat with a specially designed inner band that distributes weight evenly. It's the first hat I can wear all day without discomfort. They even followed up after delivery to check it was working well. This level of care and attention to individual needs is rare. Thank you for giving me back the ability to enjoy outdoor activities safely.
Solid craftsmanship and fair pricing. The flat cap I ordered uses quality tweed and the stitching is neat throughout. Delivery was on schedule. My only minor criticism is that the initial colour sample looked slightly different from the final product, though it's still a good match. Would order again.
Each piece is crafted with attention to detail, using traditional techniques combined with contemporary design sensibility. We work with natural materials and create accessories that last.
Every hat is shaped, stitched, and finished by hand in our London workshop. We use millinery techniques passed down through generations, ensuring each piece receives individual attention from start to finish. No mass production, no shortcuts.
We source wool felt from specialist European suppliers, silk from British textile mills, and straw from sustainable producers. Each material is selected for durability and comfort. Our leather sweatbands come from English tanneries with ISO 9001 certification.
Standard sizes from 54cm to 62cm are available immediately. For measurements outside this range, we create hats to your exact head circumference using wooden blocks. Adjustments can be made to crown height and brim width based on your preferences.
Our designs avoid fleeting trends. We focus on classic silhouettes that remain relevant season after season. A fedora or wide-brim hat from our collection will look appropriate this year and in ten years, making it a practical investment for your wardrobe.
Hats can be refreshed and repaired. We offer cleaning, reshaping, and replacement of worn components like ribbons or sweatbands. If your hat loses its shape or develops damage, bring it to our workshop. Most repairs take 5-7 working days.
Beyond standard black, navy, and brown, we maintain stock in charcoal, burgundy, forest green, and camel. Seasonal colors like dusty rose or sage appear twice yearly. For bespoke orders, we can source specific shades with 3-4 weeks lead time.
All hats come with a 12-month guarantee covering manufacturing defects. This includes issues with stitching, material flaws, or structural problems. Normal wear and accidental damage are not covered, but we can provide repair estimates at no charge.
Each piece we create reflects dedication to traditional millinery techniques combined with contemporary design sensibilities. Our workshop in London produces headwear that balances functionality with artistic expression, using carefully selected materials and time-tested construction methods.
Custom fedoras shaped to your measurements using premium felt sourced from European suppliers. We begin with pattern drafting, followed by blocking on wooden forms, hand-stitching the sweatband, and finishing with grosgrain ribbon trim. Each fedora includes complimentary adjustments within the first month to ensure optimal comfort and fit for daily wear.
Practical sun protection crafted from natural straw or lightweight cotton canvas. These hats feature reinforced brims maintaining their shape through multiple seasons, adjustable chin straps for windy conditions, and breathable crown construction. Available in various brim widths from 10 to 15 centimetres. Perfect for garden parties, beach holidays, or countryside walks throughout summer months.
Statement pieces designed for weddings, race days, and formal celebrations. Constructed on sinamay bases with hand-wired feathers, silk flowers, and vintage-inspired veiling. Each fascinator attaches securely with comb and elastic fixtures. We offer consultation to coordinate colours with your outfit and provide styling guidance for optimal positioning. Complementary storage box included with every order.
Classic French-style berets hand-sewn from merino wool blend fabrics providing warmth without excessive bulk. Features include reinforced headband for shape retention, moisture-wicking lining, and traditional leather pull tab. Available in twelve seasonal colours. These berets work equally well for casual weekend wear or as sophisticated accessories for autumn and winter wardrobes across Britain's unpredictable climate.
Refined trilbies with shorter brims and distinctive front pinch, suitable for business and smart-casual settings. Made from fine wool felt with silk lining and leather sweatband. The crown measures 11 centimetres with a 5 centimetre brim. We shape each trilby individually, ensuring the proportions complement your face structure. Includes protective travel case and care instructions for long-term maintenance.
Elegant wide-brimmed designs perfect for outdoor summer events across the Home Counties. Constructed from Milan straw with internal wire support maintaining graceful curves. Decorated with hand-tied silk ribbons and seasonal flowers. The 12-centimetre brim provides shade while remaining lightweight. Each piece balances traditional millinery aesthetics with contemporary colour palettes suitable for modern garden celebrations and afternoon gatherings.
Unique wedding headwear created through collaborative design process. Options include veiled pillbox hats, floral crowns, jewelled combs, and contemporary headbands. We work with your wedding theme, dress style, and venue formality. Two consultation sessions included: initial design meeting and final fitting. Materials range from French lace to Swarovski crystals. Rush orders accommodated for ceremonies scheduled within six weeks.
Practical 1920s-inspired cloches updated with modern water-resistant treatments. Made from waxed cotton or treated wool felt, these hats protect against British drizzle while maintaining elegant silhouettes. The close-fitting design sits securely in wind. Interior features moisture-wicking band and adjustable sizing ribbon. Available in neutral tones and deep jewel colours. Suitable for daily commuting throughout autumn and spring seasons.
Professional restoration for vintage and damaged headwear. Services include cleaning, re-blocking, sweatband replacement, ribbon renewal, and structural repairs. We assess each piece individually, providing detailed restoration proposal with timeline and cost breakdown. Particularly experienced with mid-century felt hats and straw boaters. This service preserves sentimental pieces and extends the life of quality vintage finds from markets and estate sales.
Traditional boaters hand-woven from Italian wheat straw with flat crowns and rigid brims. These timeless designs suit punting on the Thames, cricket matches, or Henley Regatta attendance. Each boater features grosgrain hatband in school, club, or custom colours. The 7-centimetre crown and 6-centimetre brim follow authentic Edwardian proportions. Includes adjustable internal sizing band for secure fit during outdoor activities.
Modern interpretations of classic cap silhouettes using architectural construction techniques. These pieces combine traditional millinery with avant-garde design elements: asymmetric brims, geometric blocking, and unexpected material combinations. Suitable for fashion-forward individuals seeking distinctive headwear. Each cap represents experimental approach to form while maintaining wearability. Limited production runs ensure exclusivity. Consultation required to discuss design preferences and styling context.
Sophisticated small-scale hats designed for evening events, theatre visits, and cocktail receptions. Crafted from velvet, satin, or fine felt with embellishments including vintage brooches, feather accents, and hand-beading. These pieces perch elegantly without overwhelming formal hairstyles. Secure attachment methods ensure confidence throughout evening. Available in classic black, navy, burgundy, and seasonal metallics. Storage box and care guide included.
Durable flat caps and newsboy styles for countryside rambling and outdoor pursuits. Made from Harris Tweed, waxed cotton, or water-resistant wool blends sourced from British mills. Features include quilted lining for warmth, adjustable back strap, and reinforced peak maintaining shape. These caps withstand regular wear across Scottish Highlands, Yorkshire Dales, and Welsh valleys. Available in traditional checks, herringbone, and solid earth tones.
Flexible vouchers allowing recipients to commission custom headwear or select from our collection. Valid for twelve months from purchase date and applicable to all services including bespoke commissions, ready-to-wear pieces, and restoration work. Vouchers arrive in presentation packaging with information about our workshop and design process. Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or special occasions when you want to give thoughtful, lasting gifts.
Creating distinctive headwear through traditional millinery techniques and contemporary design sensibility since our establishment in London.
Xesuhe started in a small workshop near Loughborough Road, where the founder combined formal millinery training with a passion for preserving traditional hat-making methods. What began as custom orders for local theatre productions grew into a business serving clients across London and beyond.
The workshop expanded gradually, adding skilled artisans who shared the commitment to quality construction and attention to detail. Each person brought specific expertise—from blocking and shaping to trimming and finishing—creating a team capable of producing diverse styles while maintaining consistent standards.
Today, the studio operates from its permanent location at 87 Loughborough Road, where clients can visit by appointment to discuss custom projects or select from ready-to-wear collections. The space includes a showroom, workbenches for different stages of production, and storage for materials sourced from established suppliers in Britain and Europe.
We produce headwear using established millinery techniques, working with natural materials and maintaining construction methods that ensure durability. Each piece receives individual attention during production, from initial blocking through final finishing. Our work serves clients seeking well-made hats for specific occasions or everyday wear.
We aim to maintain millinery as a viable craft by training new artisans and demonstrating that handmade headwear remains relevant. Through consistent quality and transparent production methods, we show that traditional skills can meet contemporary needs without compromising standards or adopting mass production approaches.
Every hat passes through multiple hands during production. Blocking specialists shape the foundation, trimmers add decorative elements, and finishers complete the interior work. This division of labour ensures each stage receives focused attention from someone with specific expertise in that area.
We source felt from mills in the Czech Republic that have operated for over 80 years, straw from Italian suppliers specialising in natural fibres, and trimmings from British manufacturers. Material choices directly affect how a hat wears and ages, so we prioritise suppliers with documented quality control processes.
Custom orders begin with a consultation to discuss intended use, style preferences, and practical requirements like head measurements and comfort considerations. We provide samples of materials and show examples of similar completed work to ensure clear understanding before production begins.
Our team includes three milliners with formal training from recognised institutions, two pattern makers who specialise in adapting historical designs for modern wear, and one finishing specialist who handles interior work and sweatband installation. Combined, the team has over 35 years of experience in commercial millinery production.
The workshop maintains equipment for both traditional and contemporary techniques. Wooden hat blocks in various sizes and shapes allow for precise forming, while modern steamers and pressing equipment ensure consistent results. We keep detailed records of each custom order, including measurements and material specifications, enabling accurate reproduction if clients request additional pieces.
Production capacity varies by style complexity, but typically ranges from 15 to 25 pieces per week for standard designs. Custom orders requiring new blocks or unusual materials take longer, usually 4 to 6 weeks from consultation to completion. Rush orders can be accommodated depending on current workload, with additional fees applied for expedited production schedules.
Explore the craft behind each piece. From selecting materials to finishing touches, discover what makes handmade hats unique and how to choose the perfect one for you.
Not every hat suits every face. Understanding your face shape helps you select styles that complement your features naturally. Round faces benefit from structured crowns that add height, while angular faces pair well with softer, rounded brims. We examine five common face shapes and recommend specific hat styles for each, including practical tips for trying them on.
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Felt requires attention to maintain its shape and texture over time. Moisture, dust, and improper storage can damage the material. This guide covers cleaning methods using soft brushes, proper storage techniques with hat boxes or stands, and seasonal care adjustments. Learn how to handle rain exposure, remove stains without harsh chemicals, and when professional cleaning becomes necessary for your felt pieces.
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Celebrate the new season with our exclusive handcrafted hat collection. Each piece is carefully made using premium materials and traditional millinery techniques. For a limited time, enjoy 25% off selected styles and receive a complimentary hat box with every purchase. This is your opportunity to own a unique accessory that combines British craftsmanship with contemporary design. Whether you're looking for a statement piece for special occasions or an elegant everyday hat, our artisans have created something exceptional for you.
Save on our entire spring collection, including fascinators, wide-brim hats, and classic styles crafted from wool felt and straw.
Every purchase includes a luxury hat box for proper storage and protection, ensuring your handmade piece stays in perfect condition.
Not sure which shade suits you best? Our milliner will help you choose the perfect colour to complement your wardrobe and skin tone.
Complimentary standard delivery to any address in Great Britain, with your hat carefully packaged to arrive in pristine condition.
All our hats are backed by a craftsmanship guarantee. If you're not completely satisfied, we'll work with you to make it right.
Have questions about our handcrafted hats or need assistance with a custom order? We're here to help. Reach out through the form below or contact us directly.
87 Loughborough Road
London, SW9 7UD
Since establishing our workshop in 2018, we have grown steadily through dedication to quality craftsmanship and genuine client relationships. These figures represent real work completed for real people across London and beyond.
Each piece tells its own story. From classic fedoras to contemporary wide-brimmed designs, our handcrafted hats combine traditional millinery techniques with modern aesthetics. Browse through our recent work and discover the attention to detail that goes into every creation.
Find answers to common questions about our handcrafted hats, materials, ordering process, and care instructions.
We work with premium natural materials sourced from trusted suppliers. Our collection includes felt made from 100% wool and rabbit fur, straw varieties such as Panama and raffia, and high-quality cotton fabrics. Each material is selected for durability and comfort.
For embellishments, we use silk ribbons, leather bands, and genuine feathers. All materials meet British quality standards and are tested for longevity. We can provide detailed information about the specific materials used in any hat upon request.
Production time varies depending on the complexity of the design. A standard custom piece typically requires 2-3 weeks from order confirmation to completion. More intricate designs with detailed embellishments or special techniques may take 4-5 weeks.
We begin with a consultation to understand your preferences, followed by pattern creation and material selection. Once production starts, we keep you updated on progress. Rush orders can sometimes be accommodated for an additional fee, subject to our current workload.
Yes, proper sizing is essential for comfort and appearance. We offer in-person consultations at our London workshop where we take precise head measurements using professional tools. This includes circumference, front-to-back, and side-to-side measurements.
For clients outside London, we provide detailed measuring instructions with diagrams. You'll need a flexible measuring tape and can send us photos for verification. We also account for hair volume and wearing preferences to ensure the perfect fit.
Absolutely. Custom colour selection is one of our specialties. We maintain an extensive palette of dyes and fabrics, and can match specific colour references you provide, whether from fabric swatches, photographs, or colour codes.
For patterns, we can incorporate checks, stripes, florals, or geometric designs depending on the base material. Some techniques like hand-painting or embroidery allow for truly unique patterns. We'll discuss feasibility during the design consultation and show you samples of similar work.
Care instructions depend on the material. Felt hats should be brushed regularly with a soft-bristle brush, moving counter-clockwise. Store them on a hat stand or upside down to maintain shape. Avoid exposure to rain; if wet, blot gently and air dry away from heat.
Straw hats need protection from moisture and should be stored in a cool, dry place. Cotton pieces can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. We provide specific care cards with each purchase, and offer professional cleaning services for £15-25 depending on the piece.
Our portfolio includes fedoras, trilbies, wide-brimmed sun hats, cloches, berets, and fascinators. We also create caps, Panama hats, and seasonal pieces like winter felt hats with ear flaps. Each style can be adapted to suit your preferences.
We're experienced in both classic and contemporary designs. Whether you need something for daily wear, special occasions like weddings and races, or theatrical purposes, we can craft it. Browse our gallery or bring reference images to discuss possibilities.
Yes, we ship worldwide using tracked courier services. UK delivery typically takes 2-3 working days via Royal Mail Special Delivery. European orders arrive within 5-7 working days, while international shipping to other regions takes 7-14 working days.
All hats are carefully packaged in protective boxes with tissue paper and padding. Shipping costs vary by destination and are calculated at checkout. Insurance is included for orders over £100. Customs duties for international orders are the buyer's responsibility.
Prices reflect the materials used, design complexity, and time required. Ready-to-wear pieces from our collection start at £85. Custom designs begin at £150 for simple styles and range up to £450 for elaborate pieces with extensive handwork.
Fascinators and smaller accessories start at £65. Bridal and special occasion pieces requiring multiple fittings and intricate detailing typically range from £250-500. We provide detailed quotes after the initial consultation, with no obligation to proceed. A 50% deposit secures your order.
We offer restoration services for vintage and damaged pieces. This includes reshaping, cleaning, replacing worn ribbons or bands, repairing tears, and refreshing colours. We assess each piece individually to determine what's possible.
Restoration costs depend on the work required, starting from £45 for basic cleaning and reshaping. More extensive repairs involving structural work or material replacement cost £80-150. Bring your piece to our workshop for a free assessment, and we'll explain what can be achieved.
Special occasion pieces are a significant part of our work. We create hats and fascinators for weddings, Royal Ascot, garden parties, and other formal events. These pieces can be coordinated with your outfit, incorporating matching fabrics or complementary colours.
We recommend booking 8-12 weeks before your event to allow time for design, creation, and any adjustments. We can arrange fittings to ensure everything is perfect. Many clients bring fabric swatches from their outfits to help us achieve ideal coordination.
Handcrafted pieces are made using traditional millinery techniques that have been refined over centuries. Each hat is shaped, stitched, and finished by hand, allowing for superior fit and attention to detail. The construction methods ensure better durability and the ability to customize every aspect.
We use higher-quality materials than most commercial manufacturers, and each piece is made specifically for the wearer rather than to standard sizes. The finishing touches, from hand-sewn linings to carefully placed embellishments, create pieces that last for years and can become treasured items.
Yes, we welcome visitors to our London workshop by appointment. During your visit, you can see our tools, materials, and works in progress. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss your ideas in person and understand the craftsmanship involved.
Workshop visits typically last 30-45 minutes and can be scheduled during our business hours. We're located at 87 Loughborough Road in Brixton, easily accessible by public transport. Contact us to arrange a convenient time for your visit.
For ready-made pieces, we accept returns within 14 days of delivery if the item is unworn and in original condition. Custom-made hats cannot be returned as they are created specifically for you, but we will make adjustments if the fit or finish isn't as agreed.
If there's a defect in materials or workmanship, we'll repair or replace the piece at no charge within 12 months of purchase. We stand behind the quality of our work and want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase.
Gift vouchers are available in any amount from £50 upwards. They're valid for 12 months and can be used toward any of our services, including custom orders, ready-made pieces, or restoration work. Vouchers make thoughtful gifts for hat enthusiasts.
We can email vouchers directly to the recipient or provide a printed certificate for you to present personally. The recipient can book a consultation to discuss their preferences and use the voucher value toward their chosen piece. Contact us to purchase a voucher.
The information presented on this website regarding handcrafted hats is provided "as is" and reflects our current knowledge and expertise. While we strive to maintain accuracy in all product descriptions, materials specifications, and care instructions, details may be updated or modified without prior notice as our collection evolves.
Xesuhe cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or outdated information that may appear on this site. We recommend consulting with our team directly for the most current product availability, pricing, and specific care requirements for individual pieces.
Please note: Handcrafted items may vary slightly from photographs due to the nature of artisanal production. For professional advice regarding hat selection, sizing, or maintenance, we encourage you to contact our specialists at [email protected] or visit our London studio.