Women's
hats should never panic the cat
PJ O'Rourke
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy from stock?
Not at this very minute, but SOON.......
On our Buy It Now page there will shortly be an exclusive range of headwear and accessories available for immediate sale, including brand new one-of-a-kinds, a few stock items and previous seasons’ samples. Keep checking back for updates – high levels of demand anticipated
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 and together come up with your perfect hat.
How much is a hat?
You won't 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 bespoke hats are all couture-made and require a 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 £180 - £375 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 a bit longer, 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 credit/debit card, 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?
In certain circumstances, yes. Charges are from £50 -£100, plus a (returnable) deposit against damage or loss.
Loan is 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. Please note there will be an additional cost for postage and packaging.
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?
With pleasure – visitors more than welcome. If possible phone first, or take a chance and call in when you’re passing; however, do be aware that if we’re in the middle of a client consult, photo shoot etc., you won't have the benefit of our undivided attention.
NB Press and Trade: appointment essential
When are you open?
Regular hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00 am - 5:15 pm. Saturday 11:00am - 4:00pm. I'm happy to make out-of-hours weekday evening appointments if necessary - just ask!
I'd like to have a go - do you run any millinery courses?
I know I’ve been saying this for 2 years now, but Courses are still
definitely on the Future Agenda – simply a matter of time (as in not
enough of ....) Keep checking Interesting Stuff
for updates.