Crafted with Tradition: Inside the World of Christys' Hats 

Tucked away in the heart of St Christopher’s Place, Christy’s hats is more than just a store, it’s a living piece of British History. With roots dating back to 1773, this iconic brand has crowned everyone from royals to cinematic icons crafting timeless headwear that has stood the test of centuries. But what does it take to keep a legacy like Christys’ alive in today’s fast-moving fashion world? We sat down with Dexter, one of the people behind the brand, to go behind the scenes and uncover the craftsmanship, creativity, and culture that make Christys’ as relevant today as it was 250 years ago.

Can you share the story behind Christys Hats, where did it all begin? 

Christys' Hats is one of the oldest and most renowned hat makers in the world, with a rich history dating back to 1773. The company was founded in London by an entrepreneurial man named John Christy, who started by making top hats. Christy, a skilled milliner, quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality headwear, which attracted the attention of the British aristocracy and fashionable society.

Christys also played a notable role in the evolution of iconic British hats like the bowler hat and the derby. In fact, Christys is often credited with being one of the main makers of the bowler hat in the 19th century, which was famously worn by men in the British upper class and later became associated with the working class as well.

Christys' Hats’ story is a testament to centuries of craftsmanship, dedication to quality, and an enduring legacy in the world of fashion. It began as a small workshop in London but grew into a global symbol of sophistication and style, cementing its place as one of the most iconic hat makers in history.

How has the brand evolved over the years?  

Christys' Hats, established in 1773, has undergone significant evolution while preserving its rich heritage in British hat-making. Originally founded in Stockport, Cheshire, the company expanded its influence throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a prominent supplier of headwear to British police forces and gaining royal patronage, notably from Prince Albert. In 1997, Christys' relocated its manufacturing operations to Witney, Oxfordshire, marking a strategic move to modern facilities. A pivotal moment occurred in 2011 when Liberty, the esteemed London department store, acquired Christys', introducing the brand to a new generation of fashion-conscious consumers. This acquisition facilitated collaborations with renowned designers such as Paul Smith and Margaret Howell, further elevating Christys' status in contemporary fashion circles. In celebration of its 250th anniversary in 2023, Christys' expanded its product line by introducing a heritage cap collection, crafted in England using fine tweed wool and cashmere sourced from Scotland, exemplifying the brand's commitment to quality and tradition. This evolution underscores Christys' ability to honour its storied past while embracing modern trends, solidifying its position as a distinguished British hat maker.

Can you tell us a surprising fact people may not know about Christy’s?  

A surprising fact about Christys' Hats is their longstanding relationship with the film industry; notably, the iconic Homburg hat worn by Marlon Brando's character, Don Vito Corleone, in The Godfather was crafted by Christys.

How do you keep Christy’s relevant for young generations whilst honouring your legacy?  

By increasing our social media presence, working with influencers, continuing to develop new styles and models and growing our UK made hat production.

Can you please explain the brands mission in one sentence?  

Christys' Hats' mission is to craft timeless, high-quality headwear that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance, providing customers with a symbol of sophistication and enduring style.

Watch the full video below.