We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jerri Hanna a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jerri thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

The western aesthetic has taken center stage for fashion weeks ’24 across the globe. Cowboy culture influences were seen at Pharrell’s recent Louis Vuitton show in Paris as well as designer Edward Crutchley’s London fashion show. This was our queue to find new, modern ways to wear the western fashion trend; “this trend spotted on the runways of Paris will be the fashion phenomenon of 2024.” – Vogue France

This is an exciting time to be a hat maker, as the western cowboy hat is a legend in itself.

Western fashion is evolving to embrace diverse body types, skin tones, and cultural backgrounds. This inclusivity fosters a more accessible and empowering landscape.

“Western fashion is not just a trend, it is a timeless and classic way of dressing that feels forever cool.” – Vogue

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I specialize in making bespoke, one of a kind hats personalized to the buyer. Every design is unique and exclusive to the wearer.

I have always had an eye for design whether in fashion, art, decor, photography, painting, etc.
I am in my peak “flow state” when I am creating, I lose track or time and sometimes even forget to eat; I become immersed in the whole world of creating something completely new. If I had to describe my aesthetic it would best be illustrated as merging raw, natural elements with those of refined elegance, creating somewhat of a symbiotic relationship of balance I suppose.

I hope to create an experience for people as well as timeless designs; wearable art.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I have funded this startup all on my own wages as a hairstylist. You have to budget and miss parties and dinners, but when you really feel passionate about a calling then you don’t feel as if you’ve really missed out. You bet on yourself. I believe whatever you think you can achieve, with the right mindset and discipline, you can manifest your dreams.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

I started this business as a hobby and once I realized how expensive all the tools were I thought, I have to turn this into a business, haha. Through purchasing certain tools I made friends with the artisans and woodworkers, who passed along knowledge of others in the business like Tom Hirt. Tom is the hat maker for all the hats on the classic western movie “Tombstone.” He has shared many tips that have helped me pivot from mistakes and trial and error difficulties. Researching is the backbone for most any successful business and it takes a lot of time and experience to get it right, patience is key. We are always students, learning something new every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: legendofgeraldine.com
• Instagram: @legendofgeraldine

Image Credits
@david_se_photography