Based in New York City, the hat brand Esenshel, founded and led by Rodney Patterson, embodies a unique approach to hat creation.
His goal is clear: to elevate the hat from a simple accessory to the protagonist of every outfit. Making his debut at Premiere Classe, Rodney showcased a collection that blends bold proportions with timeless designs, drawing the attention of buyers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
An unexpected start in hatmaking
Esenshel’s story began eight years ago when Rodney, in search of a perfect daily uniform, realized he was missing one key element: a quality hat. “I had everything else—shoes, a coat, jeans—but good hats were nowhere to be found.” he recalls. He turned to a small hatmaker in Soho to create a model to his own specifications. Soon, people were stopping him on the street, asking about his creations. That moment sparked the idea for Esenshel.
After teaching himself hat-making to meet growing demand, Rodney officially launched Esenshel seven years ago and remains deeply involved in the production of each piece, all handcrafted in his Brooklyn studio. This first showing at an international European fair marks a significant milestone for the brand.
Timeless creations with bold proportions
For his premiere at Premiere Classe, Rodney introduced a collection combining Esenshel’s classic designs with more experimental pieces. “This collection is a blend of our most popular items and new, more conceptual designs,” he explains. True to his philosophy, the colour palette remains neutral, featuring black, beige, and grey—ideal for a clientele seeking both elegance and longevity. “When investing in a quality hat, people are less inclined to choose frivolous colours.”
Esenshel’s design philosophy revolves around exaggerating classic shapes, resulting in hats with unique proportions. One of the collection’s highlights, the Russian Cuff Hat, has become a bestseller, thanks to its familiar silhouette that resonates with various cultural aesthetics and historical styles. “This hat is a favourite among both men and women,” Rodney affirms.
A niche market for a conceptual approach
Rodney doesn’t follow trends; instead, his design approach is more conceptual. “To me, a hat shouldn’t just complete an outfit—it should be the starting point,” he explains. Unlike traditional hats, often adorned with ribbons or feathers, Esenshel’s designs are minimalist, allowing the shape and proportions to take centre stage. “The hat becomes the hero of the outfit, free from unnecessary embellishments.”
Rodney sees Esenshel as a niche brand. “My hats won’t appeal to everyone, but for those who do appreciate them, they’re essential pieces.” This unique design philosophy has set the brand apart in a market saturated with more traditional products.
Premiere Classe: a strategic platform for accessories
For Rodney, the main appeal of Premiere Classe lies in its focus on accessories. “Most trade shows are geared towards ready-to-wear, but here, buyers come specifically for accessories. That’s what makes this event essential for me.” The diversity of brands and the quality of collections also caught his attention. “It’s a place where I feel aligned with other creators showcasing unique products.”
Rodney was also captivated by the unique atmosphere of Paris, the fashion capital. “There’s always an element of glamour in Paris; the architecture and culture make it an unmissable place for fashion.” His participation in Premiere Classe marks a turning point in Esenshel’s international expansion, with buyers from Italy showing significant interest in his designs.
With plans for expansion into Europe and new collaborations on the horizon, Rodney hopes that Premiere Classe will be a springboard for increasing Esenshel’s visibility. “My goal is to connect with buyers who understand and appreciate what I’m doing and to broaden our audience worldwide.” he concludes.
Esenshel stands out with its bold, minimalist approach to hatmaking, turning this accessory into a centerpiece of the contemporary wardrobe. With artisanal production based in Brooklyn and a forward-looking vision, the brand is ready to explore new horizons with the support of Premiere Classe.
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