Lock & Co Hatters in London is the oldest hat shop in the world — Photo courtesy of Lock Hatters
"Where should you go for a one-of-a-kind chapeau?" is the question that's been on our minds lately.
The internet is brimming with endless options, from big-name designers to Etsy makers, but that's not exactly a good solution. Online shopping is undoubtedly convenient, but when it comes to shopping for hats, trying them on is one of the most important – and fun – parts of the process.
So we've scoured the globe to find 10 amazing hat shops worth traveling for. To clarify, these aren't just hat shops retailing all manner of brands and designers; these are shops that make their own hats, many of them offering bespoke services.
Stephen Jones Millinery
36 Great Queen Street, London
Stephen Jones is one of the most well-known milliners the world over – and for good reason. Having opened his first shop in 1980, he's crafted headwear for the late Diana, Princess of Wales, and more recently Rihanna and Beyoncé. Everything but ordinary, a Stephen Jones piece is a work of art, so who wouldn't want to step into his shop and try on a hat or two?
Good fit for: Women seeking something a bit more avant-garde.
Optimo
51 West Jackson Boulevard, Chicago
Inside an unassuming space in Chicago, men's hatmaking is alive and well. One of the few locations on this list located in America, Optimo earns its moniker as a 'destination hat shop' for its attention to detail, time-honored methods and impeccable, personalized service.
Good fit for: Men looking for quality bespoke hats – without having to cross the pond.
Sally-Ann Provan Millinery
27 Beaverhall Road, Edinburgh
Based in Edinburgh, the love for Sally-Ann Provan's delicate work knows no bounds. Having trained under the late Queen Mother's milliner, her hats are often featured in magazines, as well as theater productions, television and film. Any hat you purchase here is practically already famous. If you plan to visit, call ahead because it's appointment-only.
Good fit for: Women shopping for ready-to-wear or custom headpieces that are decidedly elegant.
Lock & Co. Hatters
6 St James's Street, London
Founded in 1676, Lock & Co. is the oldest hat shop in the world. That's over 340 years of hatmaking. Just let that sink in. If anyone has perfected the craft of hatmaking, this is it. They also hold two royal warrants from the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Edinburgh, so expect to see their work at almost any royal event.
Good fit for: Men and women seeking classic, high-quality headwear with a dose of history.
Anya Caliendo Couture Millinery Atelier
18 Fire Island Avenue, Babylon, N.Y.
Originally from Russia, we're lucky that Anya Calliendo crossed the globe to grace us with her contagiously happy and colorful designs. She trained in England under millinery maven Rose Cory and apprenticed with the aforementioned Stephen Jones. And now she's spreading her knowledge by offering her own millinery courses.
Good fit for: Women and young ladies who like a bit of whimsy in their accessories.
Laird Hatters
23 New Row, London
There are three Laird stores in Central London, but we've chosen to highlight the Covent Garden location as its selection is extensive and it's close to other shops recommended in this article. One of the more recent additions to the hatmaking scene, founded in 2009, this shop specializes in handmade, ready-to-wear pieces.
Good fit for: Men and women who want bold, modern headwear with a clean aesthetic.
Maison Michel
22 Rue Cambon, Paris
From canotier to cloche, Maison Michel creates a range of ready-to-wear shapes that are both functional and fashion-forward. Leaving this boutique without being tempted to try on every hat in sight would be a challenge indeed.
Good fit for: Women seeking an everyday hat rather than a piece for special occasions.
Bates
73 Jermyn Street, London
Outfitting the men of London since 1898, Bates Gentlmen's Hatter offers an extensive selection of ready-to-wear headgear, both formal and casual. You'll also find that staff are well-versed in all things hat-related, and you'll probably leave a bit more educated on the subject. While you're there, don't miss 'Binks the Cat,' a hat-wearing taxidermied feline.
Good fit for: Men who are looking for quality hats with service to match.
Rachel Black Millinery
79 Maryland Road, London
Adjectives that describe Rachel Black Millinery: fun, flirty, feminine, timeless. The pieces you'll find here aren't the fanciful fascinators that make crazy headlines, but rather the understated, effortless looks that make fashion history.
Good fit for: Women who like classic looks with a unique twist.
Grace Hats
3 Mill Hill Road, Woodstock, N.Y.
Grace Hats was founded in Japan but gained a large enough following in the U.S. to support its very own brick-and-mortar location. Even better, all of the pieces are still made in Japan, so this hatmaker is staying true to its roots. You'll find a large assortment of ready-to-wear for both men and women, as well as a selection of unisex options. You could easily spend hours here just exploring and trying on everything.
Good fit for: Younger men and women looking for trendy headwear at an affordable price point.
