By Pauline Stewart | Photography by Lisa Young
Barry Hutchings has a passion for hats that spans continents and eras, from sleek fedoras to bold fezzes. His fascination with hats began during his rebellious punk rock phase in his twenties, when hats became more than just accessories—they were statements of rebellion and individuality, much to the bewilderment of his peers who preferred bare heads.
In today’s hat-shy world, Barry proudly tips his hat and mourns the decline of hat etiquette, partly blaming it on motor vehicles that made hat-wearing a risky business due to wind resistance. But for Barry, a good hat isn’t just about looking stylish; it’s about exuding confidence and sophistication.
Barry’s hat collection tells a story beyond fashion—it’s a cultural exploration. From rugged cowboy hats to the timeless elegance of Stetsons and trilbies, each hat showcases craftsmanship and style. His cherished berets from Biarritz not only keep him warm but also embody practical fashion that never goes out of vogue.
Beyond being a hat enthusiast, Barry is a treasure trove of hat knowledge. He loves sharing tales of reshaping misshapen hats with steam and the art of shellac preservation, keeping his hats as pristine as the day they were made.
But Barry’s passion doesn’t stop at wearing hats; he wants to share it with others. Enter Barry’s brainchild: the “Hat Club,” a haven where fellow hat lovers can swap stories, discuss hat history, and revel in the joy of wearing headgear. It’s about more than just looking good; it’s celebrating identity and tradition through hats.
And let’s not forget Barry’s gentlemanly side. He insists on tipping his hat to ladies, believing it adds a touch of old-world charm to any interaction. His fascination with hats extends beyond current styles; Barry delights in recounting stories of historical hats, from military berets to the legendary Panama hats that conjure visions of sunny Ecuadorian beaches.
“a good hat isn’t just about looking stylish; it’s about exuding confidence and sophistication”
In a world where conformity often stifles creativity, Barry stands out as a beacon of individuality—quite literally under a stylish brim. His message is clear: “Wear your hat out!” For Barry, hats aren’t mere accessories; they’re expressions of personality and timeless elegance.
Barry Hutchings, the hat-wearing enthusiast, invites us to rethink the humble hat. It’s not just something to cover your head; it’s a statement, a symbol of self-expression that defies trends and encourages us all to embrace our unique style with a nod and a tip of the brim!
