Some of you might remember me as the maker of Lao Hats, and then August Phoenix Hats. As of January 2024 I have moved on to making clothing based on mostly 19th century aesthetics. crafted by hand from mostly second-use textiles.
August Phoenix is a reference to the resplendent and legendary bird that is reborn from its own fire and ash. It reflects the fusion of cultural and historical influences that dominate my work, while highlighting my philosophy of giving new life to reused materials.
As I no longer make hats, the shift to Mercantile focuses on my broader interests, which include historical research and publication.