Who started it? In 1983, mum Helen Kaminski created a raffia hat to protect her children from the Australian sun. A year later a Vogue editor discovered her design in a local boutique and Kaminski shot to fame. For the past 30 years Helen Kaminski has become the go-to brand for Australians looking for stylish headwear, be it for the beach or fashion week. It has expanded to include men’s styles, handbags and other accessories.
Why we love it: it’s not only bang on trend (hats have appeared on every major catwalk recently) but is also about quality, with an emphasis on natural materials and time-honoured techniques. Sustainability is a strong part of the brand’s philosophy – the company works with local manufacturing communities so each style is handmade while being built to last beyond one season. The latest collection, Kaleidoscope, features bold colours and rich textures with an African/French twist. Many of the pieces are made in Madagascar using hand-weave techniques.
What we’d pick: the Roll-up (top right; HK$1,720) is a travel essential and can easily be stored in any suitcase. The once-daggy visor is given a luxe update in leather (above; HK$1,290), which looks stylish while shading you from the sun. For fashionistas, you can’t beat the Fedora (top left; HK$1,930), which comes in various styles from embroidered to fringed.
Where can I get it? Helen Kaminski is available at Kapok (5 St Francis Yard, Wan Chai, tel: 2549 9254) and Hatwoman (Man Yee Arcade, 68 Des Voeux Road Central, tel: 2167 8337).