Cool Jobs: Bespoke Hat Co.

by Kerry Andersen

As a young girl, Kashia Spears would pop a hat on her head, look in the mirror, and love the way the timeless accessory would complete her outfit and frame her face. She always wanted to capture that joy and bring it to others. So, when she left the healthcare field, but still desired the one-on-one interaction that position offered, she found a new way to connect with people. Spears began by opening a small space in a local hair salon and styling customers with the hats she loved so much. Those humble beginnings grew into a successful brick and mortar boutique in downtown Lake Charles and an online store with a personal touch.

“We have the opportunity to really get to know our customers and provide not just a transaction, but a memorable experience to boost their confidence,” says Spears. “We work to find just the right shape, brim size, and crown for the perfect fit. If we don’t have something, we’ll order it from our vendors, so our clients get exactly the fit and style they’re looking for.”

The thing that surprises Spears the most about her job is that so many people think they can’t wear hats. “They let their lack of confidence get in the way and are hesitant to try something new,” says Spears. “Everyone looks sharp in a hat! But, for those who aren’t sure, we recommend starting with a smaller brim size like a fedora then work your way up to larger flat brims and just try on several styles to see what you like.” Her team will even steam and shape hats for the perfect fit whether you purchase them from Bespoke or bring in one you’ve had for years. She wants her customers to walk away happy – and with a hat on their head!

Like many small businesses, Spears has faced challenges in recent years related to the pandemic, rising shipping costs, inventory shortages, and the hurricanes. That’s why it’s even more special to have her sister, Christin, a former nurse, working alongside her now. She’s even able to travel with other family members to local markets and rodeos. There they work together to fit customers personally, so they have the perfect finishing touch to their outfits for the exciting events and adventures they have planned. Custom hat bars are a huge hit right now, allowing people to choose trims, bands, and even feathers to personalize their hats into a one of a kind fashion statement. Spears will be adding even more trims and band varieties in the fall and will also offer hat branding, which is popular in Texas and making its ways across the state line.

While Bespoke Hat Co. carries classic hats that stand the test of time, Kashia encourages customers to venture out of their comfort zones and try donning more trendy styles too with bright colors and flat brims. A priority for the business is to make sure styles are available in all price points so every customer can walk out wearing the perfect accessory to express their individuality. Bespoke has also expanded to carry leather shoes and accessories, handmade leather bags, and even hats and sunglasses for kids.

Bespoke Hat Co. is located at 725 Ryan Street in downtown Lake Charles. Open Monday-Friday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM and weekends from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Learn more at www.bespokehatcompany.com , call (337) 436-5454, or visit @bespoke.hat on social media.