Adolfo Hats for Emme

Designer Adolfo Sardina, 1958

Adolfo Sardina was born in Havana, Cuba in 1933.  Destined to join the family law firm, it was his wealthy and fashionable aunt, Maria Lopez, who persuaded Adolfo's parents that her nephew was not meant for the law.  She took him to Paris and convinced Balenciaga to hire Adolfo as an apprentice.  It was there that he learned the importance of cut and design that would serve him throughout his career.

In 1953, Adolfo left Paris to work in New York.  There, he joined the millinery firm of Emme where he designed hats until starting his own company in 1963.  He won the first of his 3 Coty Awards in 1955 for his millinery work at Emme.  Today, a look at some of the hats Adolfo designed during his years at Emme.

1955

1957

1959

1960

Sophia Loren wearing an Adolfo for Emme hat, 1961.