The English Hatter

The English Hatter, or De Engelse hoedenmaker, is a family-owned business specializing in classic English men's fashion. The store has been a hallmark of style since 1935, proudly located on Heiligeweg 40 in a historic building dating back to 1651​.

The business was originally founded by Abraham Jacob Cijfer and Gerard Reeser, with the latter having previously held a similar position at Hoedenmagazijn Meuwsen in the Leidsestraat 4. Over the years, the leadership of the store passed to other members of the family and employees, ultimately culminating in the store's acquisition by entrepreneur Clé Enneking in 2017​​.

Stepping into The English Hatter feels like stepping into a different era. The store features an old-fashioned interior made from dark mahogany wood and a parquet floor, where small accessories such as cufflinks, tie pins, and silk pocket squares are displayed in glass showcases. Everywhere you look, there are neatly arranged hats and caps sorted by color and size, vibrant original hatboxes, and sports woolen blazers, coats, and jackets hanging against the wall. Among the meticulously stacked shirts, you can find timeless pieces like the classic Hanson & Krane shirt with a tab collar and double cuffs, and the Peter Brothers' soft Oxford cotton shirt with button-down collars. The shop also boasts Lacoste polo shirts and Scottish William Lockie pullovers, made from double-thread Scottish lambswool. It's not just a shop; it's a veritable museum of men's fashion​​.

In essence, The English Hatter is more than just a store – it's a testament to the timeless elegance of classic English fashion and a tribute to the enduring spirit of family-owned businesses.