A hat isn’t just an accessory — it’s a statement. For Amina Hood, each creation tells a story, blending artistic vision with everyday wearability. Her distinctive designs have graced Vogue, L’Officiel, and even the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
We spoke with Amina about the origins of her brand, her devotion to craftsmanship, and the inspiration behind her collection with Helen Jon. This collaboration pairs her signature millinery artistry with Helen Jon’s luxe resortwear aesthetic — perfect for summer getaways, city adventures, and everything in between.
Brand Origins & Inspiration
How did Amina Hood get started, and what first inspired you to begin designing hats?
Honestly, it was one of those things I could have never planned. Even my last name — Hood — feels like fate now. A friend asked me, out of the blue, to design her a hat, and that simple request sparked everything. I’ve always been creative and studied textiles, so while hat-making wasn’t something I’d envisioned, it felt like a natural extension of who I am.
Your hats have such a distinctive, timeless aesthetic. Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
I’m inspired by everything and everyone I meet. Art, nature, and travel always find their way into my creative process. I try to fill my life with those experiences, and the ideas just naturally follow.
Has your personal background or life experiences influenced your approach to design?
Absolutely. My background in luxury retail — working for Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus — shaped my appreciation for beautiful materials and refined details. Combining my love of retail and textiles, gave me a deep understanding of how quality and craftsmanship come together to create something truly lasting.
Your work was featured in an installation at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Tell us more about that experience!
Being featured in an installation at the Metropolitan Museum of Art was an incredible experience. As a member of a Milliners Guild, I had the unique opportunity to showcase hats that we crafted specifically for a Rock and Roll exhibition. It was both an honor and a thrill to be part of such a prestigious event.
Sustainability & Craftsmanship
Sustainability is a shared value between Helen Jon and Amina Hood. How does your brand embody sustainable, small-batch production here in the U.S.?
I wholeheartedly agree that sustainability is a fundamental value for both Helen Jon and Amina Hood. My commitment to sustainability and small-batch production is at the heart of our brand. Every aspect of our production takes place in Texas, Kansas City, and New York. I can proudly share the names of nearly everyone involved in the making of our hats, as their contributions are incredibly important to me.
How do you approach material sourcing and construction to achieve that level of detail?
Achieving the exceptional detail and long-lasting quality of our hats involves extensive research, industry knowledge, and years of learning. It has been a gradual process. We're fortunate to partner with outstanding material producers, from our Scottish cashmere mill to the artisans who create our handwoven Panama straws. These collaborations allow us to maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship in every piece.
Why is it important to you to create slow, intentional fashion in today’s fast-paced world
In my experience, anyone can make something, but not everyone can make it well. More isn’t always better. That’s why we focus on creating slow, intentional fashion — pieces designed to be with you for more than just one season of your life.
Style & Versatility
Do you have a favorite hat style from your collection right now? What makes it special?
Right now, my favorite is theIsolafrom our Helen Jon collaboration. With its wide 4-inch brim and seagrass-trimmed Panama style, it’s made for the beach — the kind of place I’d love to be every day.
Our customers love versatile pieces that travel well and transition effortlessly from day to night. Which of your hats would you say is the perfect beach-to-city companion?
The Malibu from our collaboration is ideal — it’s a straw ball cap that works just as well on the beach as it does in the city during summer. If you’re looking for a winter option, our New York style is the perfect cold-weather companion.
Values & Community
Attention to detail is at the heart of Amina Hood. What does that look like in your design process?
I design with one question in mind: would I wear this? Every hat is meant to complete an outfit—a cherry on top, with thoughtful details that tell a story and bring the whole vision to life, not just something on your head.
How do you hope women feel when they wear one of your hats?
This is my favorite question. I often hear, ‘I could never wear a hat’ or ‘I’m not a hat person.’ And maybe you’re not — but sometimes life is full of surprises. Hats bring joy and a touch of classic style in unexpected ways.
What’s next for Amina Hood? Any exciting projects or inspirations on the horizon?
I’m thrilled about our collaboration — it’s been such an exciting journey. Looking ahead, we’re hoping to expand into travel bags and accessories, creating pieces that carry the same thoughtful design and timeless style as our hats, made to accompany you on every adventure.
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The Amina Hood x Helen Jon collaboration celebrates thoughtful design, effortless style, and timeless versatility. We hope you loved hearing Amina’s stories and the inspiration behind her creations.
Shop the collection to discover beautiful hats that will elevate your every look — from your daily routine to your next adventure. Distinctive and endlessly wearable, these artful pieces are designed to tell your story, wherever life takes you.