One often forgets that behind the big names of Parisian haute couture, is the work of artisans that never make the headlines.

On my usual walk from the Paris office to the Hotel de Ville, I often pass the area known as Village St. Paul. This lesser known part of the Marais dates back to the 7th century; it was used as residence by Charles V and was the parish of the kings of France from 1361 to 1559.

Among many antique shops and refined cafes, I found an interesting boutique/workshop where Veronique Brykalski uses straw to craft beautiful hats, purses, and jewels.

Veronique and her husbands have been in the fashion business for decades, and their hats have been displayed in museums as well as catwalks. Nevertheless, both of them are in their atelier in rue St. Paul every day from Wednesday to Sunday, shaping creations for everyone. I walked in the shop, intrigued by the colorful bracelets (starting from one Euro), and was immediately taken by the urge to buy everything, from hats to purses to vases.

Veronique kindly helped me pick the most suitable model of headband, while explaining the technique used to make these fashionable accessories. She adjusted the hat so it would fit my head perfectly, just like a custom-made piece should.

Of course I ended up purchasing more than I needed, but you can never have too many custom-made hats!