Paul Bernstock & Thelma Speirs

Paul Bernstock and Thelma Speirs met whilst studying Fashion/Textiles at Middlesex University.

Bernstock, who was admittedly ‘rather lazy’ at university went on the study for his MA, but left during the second year after landing a job as a pattern cutter at French Connection. On graduating, Speirs started making and customizing hats with Paul, starting the regular Saturday night White Trash nightclub to help finance their flourishing millinery business.

In 1982 they established the label Bernstock Speirs. Inspired by the underground club & music scene, they began creating men’s & women’s hats which challenged the traditional ideas of millinery.

A new generation of hat wearers were seduced by the witty, fashionable and innovative styles.

Today, the spirit of the brand remains vibrant and youthful. The hats are sporty and fashion forward using unconventional fabrics and techniques, crafted into unique designs with an emphasis on detail and quality.