ARNOLD HATTERS in NYC reports that colorful straw fedoras in flamboyant shades of red, lavender, pink, sky blue and purple are selling very well from Capas Headwear. Also selling well at retail is the Kangol Tropic Player hat, which, is a small brimmed pinch crown fedora in mesh. Owner Mark Rubin has sold this Kangol hat so well that they are waiting for reorders, but Kangol seems to be out of stock.

Stefano Fur Felt Hat	Kangol

BOYDS, the cosmetic retailers to the stars in NYC, continues to sell hats in the front of their store. They report strong sales of large visor hats from San Diego Hat Co. and Scalia. One very famous movie star, Shirley MacLaine recently purchased eight large brimmed visors because she said that it did not crush her hair-do. The Scalia cowboy hat is also selling well. If you would like to show them your wares, call Carol Fader at 800-683-BOYD. Check out their website at http://www.boydsnyc.com/item/hat1.html. They have a hat section that is quite compelling. Fader said hat sales in the store have increased considerably, especially very large brimmed hats in felt and straw. Boyds is located on Madison Avenue and 60th Street, but they are moving at the end of July to 968 Third Avenue, at 58th Street.

C.C. Filson Company Survey Shows Trend in Giving Gifts With Lasting Value

One of the oldest manufacturers of premium outdoor apparel and accessories has confirmed a significant change in consumer buying habits, both in terms of what they buy and the reasons behind the choice. C.C. Filson Company, based in Seattle, Washington, has been marketing lines of clothing and accessories to "The American Sportsman" since 1897. Most of the merchandise had been bought by outdoorsmen, upland hunters and fishing enthusiasts.

"Up until a couple of years ago, most of our customers bought for themselves," according to Filson CEO, Doug Williams. "It was a considered purchase based on their specific needs -- durable cold weather gear, boots, and hunting hats. And it was gear that they personally had put to the test."

Filson customer research shows that over the past several years the percentage of purchases as gifts versus for personal use has doubled. These purchases are meant to be passed along to family members.

"There is an attitude that gifts should be more permanent, more durable than what I'd describe as a 'passing fancy," Williams said. "This, I think, is the result of a return to a more conservative mindset. If you give someone something that sparkles for a moment, and then goes away, it lacks thought and ultimate value. We are in a period of American history where there has been a shift in consumer sentiment, people are embracing more traditional, lasting values."

A final trend is the growing influence of the female buyer, which reflects an increase in the number of those who consider themselves outdoor enthusiasts.

"Ten years ago, almost all purchases -- either direct or via catalog -- were made by men. Today, women are making an increasing number of purchasing decisions,” Williams said.

Filson: 1-800-624-0201, http://www.filson.com