Our Story

  

My love of hats comes from my maternal grandmother whose style and panache made friends of strangers before the first word was spoken. I remember her coming off the plane to visit us filled with life stories of each person she met along the way. In third grade at 7 years old, my Caterpillar family moved to Geneva, Switzerland and stayed until I was 14. By then I thought I had life pretty well figured out. Traveling and curiosity about people and cultures was in my blood. I enjoy exploring new countries and towns, meeting and talking with people. Making connections and new friends wherever I go.

I come from a long line of strong Danish women who were skilled in hand-working techniques from lace makers to quilters, crocheters and knitters. A Fibers degree taught me to take it a step further considering shape, textures and composition as well as the ethnic and period inspirations of each piece. I am interested in the juxtaposition of high tech fabrics with old world hand working techniques. My heritage along with multiple travels to Scandinavia encourages an economy of line and practicality using quality materials with a dash of sophistication.

Strong Wear began as a children’s hat line called Strong Kids, more than 3 1/2 decades ago. I learned from kids that hats needed to be comfortable, practical, easy to care for and make you feel great. These are a universal truths that I keep close to me as I work creatively in my adult line. I enjoy exploring different hand-working techniques keeping in mind that everything must be machine washable and easily packable for travel and life at a moments notice. The earflaps that tuck up inside the hat, ready to be of service, also can be deployed in a wind to make the hat feel extra secure as well as keeping you warm when you need it most. I use the best, hi-tech  durable fabric along with a variety of woven and satin ribbon along with vintage buttons to make truly great hats. Each hat or coat seems to become the wearer’s signature piece. Enjoy your new hat or coat and thank you for your support.