Our Story
ABOUT FAO
FOR THE ATTENTION OF...
Freya Oatway is a contemporary hat maker and milliner. She draws her inspiration and ideas from her love of art, travel and natural aesthetics.
From the beginning Freya was an avid hat lover and collector. At an early age of 16 she followed her interest to London to intern with one of the most prestigious milliners in the business, Philip Treacy. She continued her studies in dressmaking and design in Dublin but returned to London to work for a host of fashion houses such as Giles Deacon, Mulberry and Roland Mouret. Working for these luxury labels her appreciation grew for natural fabrics and accessories.
After managing a contemporary fashion brand for several years she gained her knowledge of product development and the avenues of business in fashion. During that time she completed a millinery course at London College of Fashion and believed she was ready to return to her first creative passion and set up FAO Millinery.
Our Brand
We believe in the art and skill of craftsmanship and wish to promote a more caring, slower pace of life. To enjoy and celebrate your own individual style and wear it with confidence.
We use only natural materials and fibres and believe with their qualities of durability, breathability and softness they are the ultimate luxury. We understand the importance of our environment and sustainability but feel a business is also an opportunity to meaningfully contribute to communities and environment.
OUR STUDIO
We invite you to visit our studio in Wicklow town. You can try on our collections and have the experience of a custom hat fitting. Chat through style, shapes and colours that would suit you and your wardrobe.
If you can't make it into the studio, you can schedule a complimentary chat with us and we will find you your perfect hat.