The Aspen Hat Craze

By  Madison Bailey

Nestled in the picturesque snowy mountains of Aspen, Colorado, lies a boutique that has become more than just a store—it's a cultural phenomenon. Kemo Sabe, Aspen's iconic hat gallery, has turned the humble cowboy hat into the ultimate status symbol for wealthy skiers and influencers alike. With each handmade hat commanding prices in the thousands, it's no wonder these hats have taken social media by storm.

What sets Kemo Sabe apart is its dedication to personalized luxury. Customers are not only treated to a plethora of hat choices but also given the opportunity to design their own extravagant headpieces. From adding feathers to branding their names, patrons can let their creative juices flow as they craft their bespoke hats.

However, indulging in Kemo Sabe's luxury comes at a price. Hats range from $395 upward and that's before factoring in accessories. Sterling silver hat bands and chunky turquoise adornments can easily add thousands more to the bill, making a single hat a significant investment.

Influencers have been quick to flaunt their Kemo Sabe creations on TikTok, garnering millions of views and sparking envy among viewers. From showcasing the hat-making process to donning the finished product, these social media stars have made Kemo Sabe hats the must-have accessory for any Aspen adventure.

While Kemo Sabe primarily operates out of its Aspen location, It boasts locations in Vail, Jackson, and Park City, Utah. Under the leadership of Wendy Kunkle, owner and president of Kemo Sabe, and her women-led team, Kemo Sabe continues to redefine Western wear. Kemo Sabe embodies a philosophy of exceptional customer care. Here, Wendy provides insight into her journey with the brand and the unwavering dedication to excellence that drives Kemo Sabe forward. 

W: Tell us about your journey with Kemo Sabe.

Wendy Kunkle: My journey with Kemo Sabe began when I moved to Aspen, CO, without a job. Quickly finding a place within the Kemo Sabe team, I progressed from Sales to Management, General Manager, President, and Owner. My passion for this company knows no bounds; I live and breathe Kemo Sabe and its mission. Our commitment is to stay ahead of the curve in Western fashion trends.

W: Can you describe the culture of Kemo Sabe?

Wendy: At Kemo Sabe, we're firm believers in upholding strong ethics and morals. Our philosophy is simple: never burn bridges, always be honest and kind, and treat others as you'd like to be treated. We place immense trust in our employees and cherish our customers, striving to treat them like members of our own family. 

W: Kemo Sabe represents a Western culture; what does that mean to you?

Wendy: Growing up in Ohio, my love for horses was ingrained early on. But it wasn't until I arrived in Aspen that I truly understood the essence of Western culture. It's more than just a love for horses; it's a way of life — a connection to nature, to freedom, and to the wild beauty of the West. It's shaped who I am, and it's a part of me I could never leave behind.

W: For readers not familiar with the artistry of a custom cowboy hat, can you describe Kemo Sabe's process?

Wendy: Our custom hat process begins at our factory in Gainesville, TX, where raw hat bodies are transformed into works of art. Each hat is then customized in-store, from fit and color to style and embellishments. It's a collaborative process between our skilled craftsmen and our customers, often accompanied by a drink to spark creativity.

W: How does Kemo Sabe stand out in the trend-based fashion cycles that we go through?

Wendy: At Kemo Sabe, we don't follow trends; we set them. Whether it's offering customers the ability to customize hats on the spot or adding unique flair like custom hat bands or diamond accents, we're constantly innovating. We believe in empowering our customers to design pieces that resonate with their individual style, whether it's hats, boots, or buckles.

W: What is the Customer Experience like at Kemo Sabe?
Wendy: Our "Make The Customer Feel Important" motto is at the heart of everything we do at Kemo Sabe. We invest in exceptional staff who provide personalized experiences backed by a welcoming atmosphere and top-notch products. And let's not forget the bar in each of our stores — a testament to our commitment to making every visit memorable.

W: What does the future look like for Kemo Sabe?

Wendy: At Kemo Sabe, we embrace fearlessness in our approach to growth. With a dedicated team and a commitment to having fun along the way, we're excited to continue expanding our reach. As long as we're staying true to our values and enjoying the journey, the sky's the limit for Kemo Sabe.

In Aspen, where every detail is a reflection of status and sophistication, Kemo Sabe hats reign supreme, turning heads and sparking envy with each lavish design.

www.kemosabe.com