Siggi Hesbacher

Siggi Hesbacher has been a prominent figure in the UK hat industry since the 1980s. Originally from Germany, where he studied Graphic Design, Siggi moved to London in 1980 to pursue new opportunities. He began his career in fashion by working at a clothing shop on Portobello Road, where his skills with fabric, feathers, and flowers led him to create unique headpieces. Largely self-taught as a milliner, he relied on trial and error to master his craft. During this period, Siggi had the opportunity to do some freelance work for accessories designer Francis Williams and was involved in a project for the final collection of the then Central Saint Martins student John Galliano.

Siggi’s breakthrough came when Harvey Nichols purchased his first cocktail hat collection in 1982. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he built a strong presence in the industry, supplying hats to prestigious shops such as Lucienne Phillips in Knightsbridge and later partnering with Penny Davis to establish a studio in Fitzrovia. His innovative use of materials, including the introduction of silk duppion-covered hats to the market, distinguished his designs. The business focused on wholesale, supplying independent boutiques and major department stores across Britain, and expanding internationally into Canada, the USA and the Middle East.

After his partnership with Penny ended in 1998, Siggi collaborated with Bermona, a Luton-based company, to further elevate the Siggi Hats brand. Following Bermona’s receivership, he continued to grow his retail business, moving to a shop on Fulham High Street. Over the years, he became known for creating hats for Royals and celebrities, including serving as the official milliner for Royal Ascot in the early 2000s and designing collections for the Royal House of Oman.

Siggi’s reputation extended to training apprentices and nurturing new talent in the trade. He maintained close relationships with long-standing clients, including Ladies in Waiting to British royalty and notable figures such as Emma Kitchener-Fellowes and The Duchess of Gloucester. After over four decades of contributions to millinery, Siggi Hesbacher retired in December 2024, leaving a legacy of craftsmanship, innovation and influence within the industry.