Black and white stripes adorned with green feathers, black ink on white fabric, red ribbons, sequins, beads, quills and cards…these are just of few of the items that decorate the “Tiny Top Hats” created by artist and designer Cassie Scott. At only 26 years of age, Cassie leads her own company—aptly titled “Tiny Top Hats”—and exhibits her work at art fairs and conventions such as New York’s famed Comic Con.
Cassie got hooked on designing hats after she created one for the debut of a “Sherlock Holmes” movie. “I wasn’t impressed with the quality or selection available in the marketplace,” she explained. “I decided to make my own, and it started from there.” Since its establishment in 2009, the company has produced over sixty styles of tiny top hats that are decorated in over 200 styles. “The Joker is my personal favorite,” Cassie confessed. “It’s our newest hat and it has become very popular.” Of all the models offered, those adhering to steampunk style are especially unique since most of them are made from recycled materials and, therefore, no two are exactly alike.
Cassie and her team of designers create most of the hat designs, but they are always eager to hear feedback from her wildly imaginative customers. In fact, the company even held a design contest and offered a free hat to the winner. She actively looks for designers that are just starting out and aren’t afraid to try off-beat ideas and views collaboration as a key to success. “My motto since I 12 years old is ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a won’t’ so I never get discouraged,” she explained. Cassie cites seeing people wearing—and enjoying—her hats to be the highlight of her career and she hopes that her company will expand exponentially within the next decade. “I hope my company grows to include many different handmade items,” Cassie stated. “We are always looking for designers willing to let us showcase their artistic accessories with us so our dreams can grow together. We are always adapting to changing tastes and pop culture trends.” As 2017 approaches, Cassie is preparing to showcase her hats at comic festivals and anime conventions all along America’s east coast and continuously design additional offerings.
