Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy from stock?

In a word, no. At the moment we offer a bespoke service only. Please read on for details of how to commission a hat.

What's involved in commissioning a hat?

H'atelier hats are designed and made for each client individually, and take into account outfit, preference, hairstyle and occasion. So first of all, contact us to make an appointment for an informal, friendly, absolutely-no-obligation consultation, where we can discuss your ideas and preferences.

How much is a hat?

You wont be surprised to know that that all depends .… on obvious stuff like materials selected and type of hat, but mostly on complexity of production. H'atelier hats are all couture-made and require an awful lot of hand-stitching, finishing and technical know-how.
Anyway - to give you a rough idea, our price range is from about £80 upwards, with the vast majority coming in round about the £200 - £400 mark.

How long does it take to make a hat?

Ideally, you should allow a minimum of 4 weeks from first meeting/consultation to finished hat, though sometimes it can take up to 8 weeks, depending on design, availability of materials and how our schedule's looking at the time. We'll be able to give you a firm completion date when you place your order. But if you haven't got 4 weeks, it's still worth a call - we have been known to work miracles .…

How can I pay you?

By cheque, cash or bank transfer please - 50% payable with order and the balance on completion. We're looking into Paypal too - specially convenient for clients overseas - but it's not finalised yet.

Can I hire a H'atelier hat?

Sorry to say hire is not yet available to private individuals, but is something we definitely aim to introduce in future. Check our News & Events page for updates.
Hire is currently available to stylists, fashion designers, photographers, TV companies etc. Please contact us for details.

I can't get to Manchester, can I still have a H'atelier hat?

Absolutely yes - our clients come from far and wide, made possible by the wonder that is electronic communication. (Fantastic, isn't it?) We can get all the information we need via photographs and so on, and will even send you our Free Guide to Head-measuring. So not a problem, though we will add a small charge for delivery.

I have a favourite hat that's looking a bit sad - can you help?

Most certainly we can. If it's got a bit battered, or the trimming is so yesterday, or you'd like it retrimmed to match a particular outfit, just bring it along - the H'atelier Hat Hospital will take good care of it and return it to you fresh as a daisy.

Can I come and have a look round?

Oh yes, please do! We love visitors. You'll even get a cup of tea if you fancy one. Please phone first, though, just to make sure we're not in the middle of a client consult or out collecting vital supplies. Be warned: the studio is up 3 flights of stairs and there's no lift, so probably best to leave the weekly shop till after you've been.
NB Press and Trade: please make a proper appointment so we have time to sweep the floor and put a face on before you come.

When are you open?

Regular studio hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm. However, we're happy to make out-of-hours evening and Saturday appointments if necessary.

I'm a man - anything in it for me?

Not yet, alas, but hats for chaps definitely on the To Do list. Keep an eye on our News & Events page for updates.

I'd like to have a go - do you run any millinery courses?

Another project in the pipeline (a pet one of mine, actually) If you'd like to be kept informed as to when things get going just let us know, or check our News & Events page from time to time.

Hatelier: Headwear Extraordinaire