Growing up, Jamel Workman drew style inspiration from his grandfather and aspired to be like his older cousin. His grandfather was known for his signature hats, while his cousin worked as a barber , two influences that would shape Workman’s own career path. He has now spent two decades working as a master barber and the past 12 years crafting custom hats. His West Philadelphia storefront combines both passions, with the Workman Gentleman’s Shoppe operating out of the front of the building and his hatmaking venture, J Workman Millinery, occupying the back.
Workman picked up the hatmaking craft through years of training alongside some of the most respected factories and artisans across the country. He creates every style of hat imaginable, including top hats, with each piece custom-made to order. His approach centers on time-honored methods and techniques stretching back centuries, driven by a desire to revive the refinement of past eras. His work has earned recognition throughout the industry, highlighted by his selection as a participant in Philadelphia’s Fashion Incubator and his distinction as the first male “feature designer” at New York’s Great American Hat Show.
Workman Gentleman’s Shoppe
5415 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139
610-605-1345
hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 7am-7pm
J Workman Millinery | @jworkmanmillinery | @numb1contender
by appointment only