Radu Itu

The Wild Hatter

Milliner

©Radu Itu

A fashion statement for your head

Radu’s hats are made from straw, or rabbit or beaver felt
He adorns them with a horseshoe nail, which he uses as a signature
He started practising the craft as a hobby, but soon turned it into his profession

Radu Itu opened his studio in 2018, after spending several months in the workshop of a master milliner in Bali. He carried on learning his craft from several local artisans once he was back home in Romania. Ambitious and optimistic by nature, he translated his rebellious and adventurous spirit into the style of his workshop, The Wild Hatter. He has been passionate about sports since childhood, and fashion has been in his blood since he started modelling. Radu accessorises a lot, and millinery became a natural expression of his artistic vision. Using old techniques, he creates pieces that impress with stylish designs and make the hat a defining statement accessory. Every day, he spends many hours in the studio, where he experiments, bringing new creations to life.

Interview

©Radu Itu

©Radu Itu

Why did you choose this craft?: I chose it because it represents me and relaxes me a lot. Making hats induces a state of calm and helps me translate my style into an art form. I have a 'sauvage' style, meaning rebellious, bohemian, wild and witty. Hence the name of the brand I created.
What is your workshop routine?: I spend a lot of time in the studio. I have several pieces in the works at once, and I take care of each model according to the moment, inspiration and promised delivery time. People do not usually know how much work is behind a hat. Finishing a piece can take a few days or even a month when time is needed for the creative idea to settle.
What does well made mean to you?: I am not a fan of factory perfection, where everything is automated. Each piece is unique and it is precisely the imperfection of a hat accessory that makes it special. You also have to learn how to stretch the fabric on the hat block so that it does not tear or make wrinkles.
How do you combine the old with the new in your profession?: I use the old techniques I discovered in the workshops of the artisans I interacted with to create contemporary pieces. I also have hat blocks over 100 years old that have stood the test of time. Everything else is anchored in the present. My designs are inspired by nature, motorcycle travel, the ocean and people.

Radu Itu is a rising star: he began his career in 2018