"I think and hope I have changed the way we look at hats. They are no longer symbols of conformity but highly individual acts of rebellion. I am constantly challenging the perception of what a hat should be and what role it should play." --Philip Treacy No one who loves hats will be able to resist the wonderful story of the Irishman who creates timeless headwear. Born in County Galway to a plentiful family made up of a baker father, seven brothers, and a sister, Philip Treacy was taught to hold a sewing needle by his tiny village's school teacher. With it, he has freed the hat from the dictums of fashions and trends, creating sculptures for the crown out of veils, feathers, artificial flowers, straw, and gauze, as well as shadows and illusion.