Meet the Founder of atelier cappa: the New Trendy Handmade Headwear Brand

With a background in fashion and luxury communication, Una, founder of atelier cappa, spent years shaping the narratives of high-end brands before turning her vision inward. What began as a personal search for stylish, waterproof headwear — designed to navigate Amsterdam’s rain without compromising elegance — gradually evolved into a contemporary handmade headwear brand rooted in craftsmanship, femininity, and individuality.

This interview was conducted by Equals Amsterdam, a community where women come together to support and empower one another in the growth and development of their careers. In conversation with Equals, Una reflects on the origins of atelier cappa, the importance of handmade craftsmanship, and how headwear becomes a form of self-expression - shaped as much by the maker as by those who wear it.

Una is wearing a flowery tulle collection headpiece

Equals: What Inspired You to Create a Handmade Headwear Brand?

Una: cappa started with a simple need to have stylish, waterproof headwear I could wear with all my hoodless jackets. I have never been a fan of raincoats, so I wanted something practical but still chic - something that could handle Amsterdam’s rain and wind and still look good. That is how the idea was born.

After receiving great feedback, I realized the product was too useful to keep to myself. Step by step, the concept evolved into a brand. Today, alongside our core waterproof headwear line, we also have a limited edition of veil pieces: contemporary accessories that have been very popular within the creative/fashion community.

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How Do You Preserve Craftsmanship in a Handmade Headwear Process?

Una: When building the brand, I quickly realized I was leaning towards the beauty of traditional craftsmanship, as it is more aligned with my own values: small-batch production, pre-order model, limited editions, and the option to create fully custom pieces. Rather than searching outside, we look at what is available on the market locally. This is why many of our designs are one-of-a-kind.

I work on cappa together with my mother, who is the heart of our production, and we currently collaborate with our artisan, Nela, who spends around 3–4 hours to make each piece. I treasure this intimate setup because it allows me to be involved in every part of the process - from design to the final stitch. It keeps the craft honest, intentional, and enjoyable. The whole process is what I enjoy so much. Keeping it at our own rythm is a privilege in today’s fast-paced industry, but it is also one of our guiding principles, and one I want to stick by for as long as possible.

atelier cappa's founder, Una, with a handmade headpiece from the tulle collection

How Do You Express Femininity Through Contemporary Headwear Design?

Una: cappa pieces carry a feminine energy, often through the materials we use - especially tulle, which brings softness, movement, and playfulness. It’s also come naturally as an extension of my personal style. Still, I love pairing that softness with something unexpected: a leather coat, sharper silhouettes, rougher textures. That contrast creates the “IT” look.

What inspires me most is seeing how our customers, both women and men, style their pieces, whether for a wedding, a rave, or a rainy day. cappa is definitely a statement piece, and our customers are true tastemakers who make it fit their identity. Wear it as a scarf, with personalized threads, or with no threads at all. I am here to provide the best product, to keep improving it every time, and then my customers can play with it however they want.

Una carries La Clochette Sky Blue, waterproof handmade headwear

As atelier cappa Grows, How Will Craft, Identity, and Femininity Evolve?

Una: atelier cappa started as an extension of my identity and style, but it has already grown into something much larger than me - a little universe that began in my mind and is now shaped by the people who wear it. As we grow, we want to deepen our focus on customization and individuality while maintaining our signature playful touch.

Atelier cappa continues to redefine contemporary handmade headwear through a thoughtful balance of craftsmanship, femininity, and individuality. Rooted in intention rather than trend, each piece reflects a slower, more personal approach to fashion - one that values process, customization, and self-expression. As the brand grows, its identity remains shaped not only by the maker, but by a community of wearers who turn headwear into a signature of their own. A reminder that in a fast-paced industry, authenticity and craft still lead the way.

Thank you for Equals for the interview. Follow their work here.