Red brick chimneys along the river Cervo creating the skyline of an industrial territory that has found the key to its success in water, the Biellese. Here amongst old factories- some might even be considered examples of industrial archaeology - you will find the Barbisio factory, hat makers since1862.
Always a symbol of style, Barbisio hats have been worn by the international who is who throughout the 20th century. The factory has gathered together the children and grandchildren of hat makers able to shape felt - softened and made resistant by means of steam, heat and water - or weave straw to create headwear able to meet the practical and aesthetic needs of all.
Hats, indeed, are part of our history; worn by intellectuals, peasants, ciergymen, artisans, nobles, artists, by all walks of life, though worn in drfferent ways, for practical reasons of protection but also because it signals belonging, identity, personality.
To shield yourself from a powerful sun, or if you just want to look the part, a selection of Barbisio straw hats are now available in Kapok and on our webshop: www.ka-pok.com
