FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our luxury handcrafted hats, artisan heritage, and services.

About Our Heritage & Craftsmanship

What makes Zeil Millinery hats unique?

Each piece is handcrafted using centuries-old techniques. With over 25 years of millinery expertise, Head Milliner, Amanda Zeil personally travels to source the finest materials globally - from master artisans in Ecuador for our Panama hat collections to premium suppliers in Australia, Portugal, and Czech Republic for our felt pieces.

How are your Panama hats made?

Our authentic Panama hats are handwoven by master artisans in Montecristi and Cuenca, Ecuador, using genuine toquilla straw. Each hat can take days to weeks to complete, depending on the weave complexity. The process involves traditional techniques passed down through generations.

What's the difference between your collections?

Montecristi Collection: Features the finest Panama hats from the birthplace of authentic Panama hats, woven by master artisans we've partnered with for years.

Cuenca Collection: Celebrates the rich weaving heritage of the Andean region, supporting artisans who hold deep knowledge of this centuries-old craft.

Wool Fedora Collection: Crafted from premium Australian wool, these pieces blend traditional millinery methods with modern design, offering luxurious felt hats with exceptional quality and durability.

 

Product Information

How do I choose the right hat size?

We provide a detailed sizing guide on our Hat Care & Sizing page, including an international size chart. Measure around your head where the hat will rest - about 1/8 inch above your ears. If between sizes, we recommend sizing up. Many of our hats feature adjustable bands for the perfect fit.

What's included with my hat purchase?

Complimentary millinery hat boxes are included with most hat purchases, designed to protect and preserve your piece in style. You'll also receive detailed care instructions specific to your hat type.

How do I care for different hat materials?

Panama Hats (Toquilla Straw): Handle by the brim, keep away from water, store in hat box, clean with soft brush only.

Australian Wool & European Fur Felt: Brush gently counter-clockwise, avoid moisture and heat, air-dry naturally if damp, store upside down in box or on stand.

Visit our Hat Care & Sizing page for complete care instructions.

 

Fit & Comfort

What if my hat doesn't fit properly after purchase?

If your hat doesn't fit as expected, we offer exchanges within 14 days for different sizes, subject to availability. Many of our hats also feature adjustable bands that can be fine-tuned for comfort. For custom adjustments or fitting concerns, contact us and we'll work with you to find the perfect solution.

Can hats be adjusted after purchase?

Yes! Most of our hats feature discreet adjustable bands that allow for minor size adjustments.

Seasonal & Weather

Which hats are best for different seasons?

Spring/Summer: Our Panama hat collections (Montecristi and Cuenca) are perfect for warm weather, offering excellent sun protection and breathability.

Fall/Winter: Our Wool Fedora Collection provides warmth and style, with water-resistant properties ideal for cooler, wetter weather.

Year-Round: Our European fur felt pieces offer versatility and durability for any season.

Are your hats suitable for rain/sun protection?

Sun Protection: Our Panama hats provide excellent UV protection with wide brims and natural toquilla straw properties.

Rain Protection: Our wool and fur felt hats offer natural water resistance. However, we recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to heavy rain. Panama hats should be kept away from water entirely.

 

Payments

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay. All transactions are processed securely with SSL encryption for your protection.

Do you offer payment plans for custom pieces?

Yes! For custom and bespoke millinery pieces we offer flexible payment plans. Typically, we require 50% deposit to begin work, with the balance due upon completion. Contact us to discuss payment arrangements for your custom piece.

Do you offer gift wrapping?

Yes! We offer elegant gift presentation at no additional charge. Each hat comes in our signature millinery hat box with premium tissue paper and care instructions. For special occasions, we can include a personalized note. Please specify gift wrapping preferences in your order notes or contact us for custom gift presentation options.

 

Orders & Shipping

What if a hat I want is out of stock?

If your desired hat is currently out of stock, you can place a pre-order. Pre-ordered items will be handcrafted specifically for you and typically take 6-8 weeks to complete and ship. This ensures you receive a freshly made piece with the same attention to detail and quality as all our millinery.

Do you offer custom millinery services?

Yes! With over 25 years of experience creating avant-garde, haute couture, and ready-to-wear pieces, we offer bespoke millinery consultations. Contact us to discuss your custom hat vision.

How long does shipping take for handcrafted items?

Ready-to-wear pieces typically ship within 3-5 business days, while custom pieces may take 6-8 weeks depending on complexity. Pre-ordered items take 4-6 weeks. For detailed shipping information, rates, and international options, please visit our Shipping & Returns page.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship worldwide with tracking and insurance included. International shipping times vary by location, typically 7-14 business days. For specific rates and customs information, please see our Shipping & Returns page.

 

Returns & Exchanges

What is your return policy?

We accept returns within 14 days of purchase for unworn items in original condition with tags attached. Custom and bespoke pieces are final sale. Returns must be in the original hat box. For complete return procedures and requirements, please visit our Shipping & Returns page.

Do you offer exchanges?

Yes, we offer exchanges for different sizes or colors within 14 days, subject to availability. Custom pieces cannot be exchanged. For detailed exchange procedures, see our Shipping & Returns page or contact us.

 

Materials & Sustainability

How do you source your materials?

I travel extensively to work with suppliers globally, selecting only the finest sustainably sourced materials. Our Panama hats use genuine toquilla straw from Ecuador, our wool fedoras feature premium Australian wool, and our luxury felt pieces use superior fur felt from renowned suppliers in Portugal and Czech Republic.

Why Australian wool for your fedoras?

Australian wool is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality, softness, and durability. We source premium Australian wool that provides the perfect foundation for our luxury felt fedoras, ensuring each piece maintains its shape and elegance for years to come.

Why fur felt from Portugal and Czech Republic?

Portugal and Czech Republic have centuries-old traditions in producing the world's finest fur felt. These regions are renowned for their superior felting techniques and premium rabbit fur that creates exceptionally smooth, durable, and luxurious felt. The European fur felt we source offers unmatched quality, water resistance, and longevity - essential qualities for our haute couture millinery pieces.

Are your hats sustainable?

Yes, sustainability is core to our values. We work directly with artisan families in Ecuador and ethical suppliers in Australia, Portugal, and Czech Republic, supporting traditional crafts and responsible sourcing. Our handcrafted approach means each piece is built to last for generations.

 

Still Have Questions?

Can't find what you're looking for? We'd love to help! Contact us directly and we'll be happy to answer any questions about our millinery heritage, products, or services. For detailed shipping and return information, visit our Shipping & Returns page.