A while back we featured gorgeous hats that we had borrowed for a photo shoot by “the hidden hat maker” Selima.  Whenever we went down to pick out our confections, we saw their apprentice Lopeti Etu painstakingly stitching intricate chains, feathers, and beading onto their striking and original designs.  It was clear then that Lopeti was and is a rare talent in an already teensy group of high-end milliners.

Recently, we discovered that Lopeti branched out on his own with a new namesake line.  Lopeti was kind enough to provide the gamine with an image of one of his hats that has yet to be released even on his own site!  We’re so excited to share this with you so check it out below and see what Lopeti had to say about his latest creation from the F/W 2010-11 Heroine Collection.:

“The teardrop crown is one of the signature hat forms in this season’s collection, and is inspired by military hats as well as English sixties fashion – think Emma Peel. This custom detailed hat is adorned with peacock feathers, chain, and button. Comes in a variety of colors and sizes and retails for $250.  Currently we are only selling to private clients, but we will be announcing stores later this spring.”

Photo Credit: Gene Michael Bradley

Here are a couple more images from Lopeti’s new line as well as one of the man behind (or rather beneath) the hats. Congratulations Lopeti!

Photo Credit: Gene Michael Bradley

Photo Credit: Gene Michael Bradley

Photo Credit: Gene Michael Bradley

Photo Credit: Gene Michael Bradley

Designer Lopeti Etu Photo Credit: Antoine Tempe

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