Christopher Samuel contributed to this report.
A Brooklyn hattery insists that its customers make their hats, instead of letting their hats make them.
“Hats are no longer just an accessory, but the main article of clothing,” said Joe, the single-monikered owner of Malchijah Hats on DeKalb. Locating their boutique in the artsy melting pot of Fort Greene, partners Joe and store namesake Marcus Malchijah believe that everyone who wears one of their custom made hats has a “Hattitude.”
“Hattitude” is what the partners call the image displayed by the person when wearing the hat, and the feeling the hat helps the person convey.
“It’s a feel, a look,” said Joe, while tipping the brim of his brown fedora. “It gives you a different persona or feeling. I don’t think it’s about race, it’s more about the person.”
Stepping into the small, but vibrant store, an energy flows that can take you away from Brooklyn and into a place of fashion nonconformity. The African-inspired art adorns the walls of the store, and broadens the room.
The bohemian variety of music keeps shoppers upbeat as they browse through the assorted trinkets that vary from Medieval helmets to Asian inspired pieces. The section dedicated to beadwork and other Afrocentric art features necklaces and earrings made from wooden beads, colorful stones and unique shells to add a special touch to any wardrobe.
Customers say Malchijah Hats caters to people who dare to be different. Each hat is made personally for each customer, which adds even more diversity to the already enegetic multicultural neighborhood.
“The variety gives you extra swagger,” shopper Von said describing the store. “The hats give you confidence.”
After a decade as a hatter, Joe has gleaned much knowledge. So much so that he can immmediately estimate the size of your head before measuring it. Next summer Malchijah hopes to add shoes to their constantly growing collection of goods.
Joe says age inspires hat wearing and certainly inspires his customers.
“Hats have more appeal to younger age groups, and depending on the person it crosses more age groups.”
