Fashion is a funny thing—current, retro, high-end, street, boho, athleisure. It’s all ultimately subjective.
One thing is for certain: we all have that one piece of something special that evokes memories of times gone by, with many stories woven into it, and wish we could buy it again to make sure it never wears out.
Stepping into Hills Hats, you can’t help but feel this is where that exact kind of magic is made.
Founded in 1875 (yes, you read that right), Hills is approaching 150 years old. That’s an age worth pondering.
Not to get too heavy, but in that time, the world has seen the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Chernobyl disaster, two world wars, the space race, and—let’s not forget—the creation of the home computer.
In modern marketing, words like “heritage” and “authenticity” get thrown around a lot. But in truth, they’re rare to come by. Hills Hats, however, is the living embodiment of those words.
As you walk through the doors, you’re greeted by the smells, sights, and sounds of raw materials and fabrics—a vibrancy more akin to an exotic fabric market than to the streets of Petone.
A warmth envelops you as familiar yet unknown faces welcome you, eager to share stories and lessons from the world of hats.
The factory, aptly named “The Hatmosphere,” is warm and inviting while also being a pleasant assault on the senses. Trust us, you’ve never seen this many hats. The space invites curiosity and wonder, and every corridor or corner seems to lead to another equally stimulating and creative environment, filled with artifacts most have never seen.
The machinery and equipment alone are something to behold. Steam rises from pipes used for shaping hats, metal hat molds, felt brushes, and countless other hat-making tools are spread across the floors. Sewing machines hum as hands work diligently, producing a clear volume of craft. Natural smiles abound, but there’s also an unmistakable sense of pride and hard work in the air.
At the heart of the space is a sitting room, inviting customers to relax while others try on an array of hats. Comfortable, luxurious leather sofas form a cozy storytelling nook, a space that, we’re told, has also hosted many musicians over the years.
Hills Hats is celebrated for its traditional methods and high standards of craftsmanship. Every hat is handmade with meticulous attention to detail using premium materials. Sustainability is also a priority, with environmentally friendly materials and processes used wherever possible.
Their offerings are vast, from timeless styles like Panama hats and fedoras to more contemporary designs and bespoke creations. They also cater to more corporate niches, producing hats for uniforms, promotions, and events. With a strong reputation in New Zealand—and indeed, around the world—you’ve probably seen their work on the big screen.
Hats may often be overlooked, but they hold a unique significance. Sitting atop the head like a crown, they’re the perfect finishing touch. Over time, they mold to your shape and age with you.
At Phantom Billstickers, we live by the motto “flora for the concrete jungle,” ensuring vibrancy and character on the streets of New Zealand. Similarly, Hills Hats provides the crowning jewel for any outfit, on any occasion.
In a world where fashion trends come and go, Hills Hats stands as a timeless institution, blending heritage with craftsmanship and innovation. Whether you’re looking for a hat that tells a story, serves as a symbol of craftsmanship, or simply adds the finishing touch to your style, Hills has something for everyone. Every visit is not just a purchase—it’s an experience that connects the past with the present, proving that quality, authenticity, and a bit of magic never go out of style.
To take a journey to the Hatmosphere, jump here.
