Charo Iglesias

The finishing touch

• Charo works to preserve the craft of hat making
• She has made hats for theatrical productions including The Lion King
• She creates mainly for women, but also makes hats for men and children

Charo Iglesias is a maker, but also a keeper of the art of hat making. Trained as a teacher, she went on to transform her passion for hats into a profession without forgetting her background. These days she makes hats in her Madrid workshop and teaches in different schools, as well as writing a book about her 25 years’ experience. Her mantra is “crafts choose those who can make them happen”. She doesn't start by sketching; instead the hat comes to life in her mind and through her hands, which are her main tools. Her workshop is where ideas, colours, dreams and materials come together to create something that is not just an accessory but a beautiful finishing touch to an outfit.

Interview

©Tanya Lacey Photography

©Rocío Periago

How did you become a hat maker?

I am self-taught. My first creation was a crochet beanie made in 1979 while commuting on the subway in Paris, where I lived. When I moved back to Spain I started to experiment with materials and shapes. I realised that many workshops were closing and it was necessary to preserve this craft.

What skills are essential to hat making?

My hands are my tools. But you cannot do without research while experimenting in the use of materials. I choose them personally, in some cases I dye them and then mould, stitch and iron them. Most of the stitching is by hand. I also make the fabric flowers sometimes used as embellishments.

In your long career, is there a memory you particularly cherish?

The dream of any hat maker is to be involved in My Fair Lady. When the play was staged in Madrid a few years ago, I was lucky enough to have this dream come true, since I was asked to make the hats for the Ascot scene in the show. Working with theatres is one of my main activities.

Is it important to have a strong relationship with a client?

I work on many hats for weddings and special occasions and my clients are a source of inspiration. As I don't have a store, they make an appointment to visit my workshop. I want them to leave with their self-esteem boosted and knowing they will look beautiful and will be remembered.

Charo Iglesias is a master artisan: she began her career in 1981 and she started teaching in 2005

Works

©Tanya Lacey Photography

©Tanya Lacey Photography

©Tanya Lacey Photography

©Tanya Lacey Photography

©Tanya Lacey Photography

Where