Trendsetters at Work: Nick Fouquet

Hats off! Check out this model-turned-milliner's work space

By Marc Malkin, Lindsey Sirera Jul 06, 2015 7:13 PMTags
Trendsetters: Nick FouquetJacqueline Lee/E! Entertainment

From model to milliner, Nick Fouquet is a truly a man of many talents.

As the son of famed model Bernard Fouquet, Nick's always had a knack for fashion and an admiration for quality design. And while he hasn't left the modeling biz entirely behind just yet, his focus now is crafting one-of-a-kind hats that captivate and inspire. No, these aren't you're run-of-the-mill department store toppers—these are gorgeous hand-crafted designs you won't find anywhere else.

Don't think celebrities haven't taken note of this hat maker's talents either, with Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss and Georgia May Jagger as just a few of his famous clientele. Let's not get ahead of ourselves though—read on to hear from this trendsetter himself! 

What was your first job?
Working construction in the southwest of France, it was awful.

How did you get started in your career?
I always had an affinity for design, garments and the history of production. My father was a big model and would always bring back clothing from his shoots. I would tear ‘em up and redo them, making them unique. Later I worked for Christophe Loiron, who is one of my mentors in L.A. I learned the production process hands-on with custom pieces like jackets, suspenders, bags, etc.  It was grueling, but the best experience. I learned the meaning of hard work.

Jacqueline Lee/E! Entertainment

What is a typical day like for you?
I wake up, drink a big glass of water, make a tea and read different chapters in three different books I'm currently reading (because I'm ADD). Then I meditate, go surfing (if waves are good) and get to the shop to run the business and make hats.

Tell us about your office décor. When did you last give your office a makeover?
We just moved to our flagship store on 853 Lincoln Blvd in Venice. We love it. It's got a bit of a bohemian vibe mixed with rustic elements, a craft workplace and a lot of California inspiration.

Do you have a workspace at home? How does it differ from your official office?
I'm currently creating another design workspace from home where I can sketch, put mood boards together and get lost.

What's the best part of your job?
Seeing people light up when they get a hat.

What's your design inspiration?
California, Keith Richards, gutter punks, country clubs, cowboys, India, Native Americans, samurais, the ocean and traveling.

What hat trends can we expect to see for fall?
Dark colors and rainbow stitches.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Keep on keepin' on.

Jacqueline Lee/E! Entertainment

What inspired you to leave behind modeling and pursue this career? What was the first hat you ever made?
I still do jobs from time to time. My hat making career is what makes me get out of bed every day. It's my life and I love it. 

What's your go-to hat?
A wide brim, high crown hat, fedora style with a little distress.

Who are some of your career heroes?
Ralph Lauren
, The Elder Statesman

What's the most daring career risk you've ever taken at work?
I take risks all the time, no risks no rewards.

Finish the sentences below:
Today for lunch I had… cafe gratitude.
The first website I log onto every day is… Great Day.
My usual Starbucks order is… opera chai.
If I wasn't doing this job, I would… be a National Geographic photographer.
Instagram or Twitter… @nickfouquet.
My favorite store to visit is… The Elder Statesman on Melrose.
My favorite accessory is… a hat.
List five things that are on your desk right now… scissors, LACMA tickets, NY Times, Kassia meador palo santo surf wax and water.