Grandfather's Sailor Beanie

Worn since 3 years

Benoit Martinengo, Paris France

Could you introduce yourself?
My name is Benoit Martinengo, I am a freelance stylist and consultant for brands but also for the press. I have been living and working in Paris for about ten years.

Can you present us with this piece? Where did it come from? How old is it?
This is my maternal grandfather's hat. My grandfather lived in Brittany, in what is still our family home. He had a boat that he sailed with and went fishing regularly. I often saw him wearing this sailor's hat, and when he died, I wanted to inherit it. I cannot tell you where it came from or even when it was made.

Do you remember the first time you wore it?
I don't remember the first time I wore it, but I've been wearing it since he died almost three years ago.

What are your memories related to this piece?
Memories of my grandfather, Brittany, his boat and some photos of him wearing this hat that were hung on the walls of the house.

Does it show signs of wear and tear?
There is a small hole on the top, probably related to wear but I didn't want to patch it up. I think it's important to keep wear marks on clothes. They're telling their story.

Do you remember the last time you wore it?
I wear this beanie as soon as the weather permits, so it's more like fall and winter. I can't remember the last time I wore it, but I still wear it regularly.