AS a glance through its list of customers will confirm, many Irish people are already familiar with James Lock & Co, the oldest family owned hatter business in Britain. Founded in 1676 and still occupying its original premises on St James's Street, Lock & Co is well worth a visit if you are travelling to London. Beyond the listed facade, there's a display of old merchandise including the Duke of Wellington's plumed battle hat, Nelson's last order from the shop and the very first bowler hat made by the company in 1850.
For the second year in succession, Lock & Co has taken a stand at the Horse Show in the RDS with a wide selection of informal and formal headwear as well as hats suitable for equestrian occasions. Visitors will be able to avail of Lock's customary head measuring and hat fitting services, employing the Conformateur - a 19th century French instrument which takes a template of each customer's head shape. From this a close fitting and comfortable hat is made.
For those who want to make an immediate purchase, Lock & Co's off the peg hats for summer start at just £25 for a linen rowing cap running up to £115 for the finest Panamas. But there are also wonderful women's hats designed exclusively for Lock & Co by milliner Sylvia Fletcher. If you want to get ahead at the RDS this week, get a hat with history.