From small beginnings in northern England to the covers of epoch-making hip hop albums, cultural movements and era defining films, Kangol has entrenched itself as a leading icon of street style. This year represents the brand’s 70th anniversary, a celebration of headwear form, function and fashion that has left an indelible mark on popular culture and history.

Jacques Spreirgen, after moving to the UK in his early 20s, began importing the newly popular Basque beret, eventually establishing his own beret factory in Cleator, Cumbria in 1938. After supplying berets for military use in World War II, Spreiregen’s Kangol brand (an anagram of silK, ANgora and woOL) embarked on collaborations with the likes of Mary Quaint and Pierre Cardin, as well as endorsement deals with The Beatles and Arnold Palmer.

The dawn of the hip-hop era forever changed the brand’s identity, lifting it to new heights of social and cultural cool. Having been the hat of choice during the early movement, Kangol covered the heads of legendary MCs such as LL Cool J, Grand Master Flash, Slick Rick, DMC, Eric B.and Rakim.

Leading stars now favour Kangol for that distinctive look, one that’s transcended its varied history to be a celebrated lifestyle brand. Here’s to 70 more years of Kangol style.