Elvis Pompilio, the Belgian hat master

When you think of Elvis Pompilio, you think of exuberant, surrealist headgear. The Belgian hat-maker's clients include celebrities such as Madonna, Sharon Stone, Amélie Nothomb, Axelle Red and Blondie He retired from the commercial circuit in 2002 and currently works with designers who share his philosophy; he amazes the public with his unique, surrealist creations.

Elvis Pompilio, the son of an Italian miner, studied visual arts at ICADI in Liège. The self-taught hat-maker opened his first shop in Brussels in 1987. This was soon followed by Paris and London and famous luxury boutiques in Canada, the United States and Japan.

During his career, Elvis Pompilio has worked closely with famous fashion houses that were attracted by his creativity and above all his perfectionism. Stars from around the world wear his creations, from royal families to singers of all kinds. His international reputation led to him being made an Officer of the Order of Leopold II, but his talent can also be seen at the Musée Grevin and at the stores of famous designer brands such as Chanel, Feraux, Céline and Anteprima.

Acclaimed in international fashion magazines, he is undoubtedly famous for his spontaneity; however, it is primarily his joie de vivre and his dynamism that make him so popular with celebrities.