Paula Kasu is a Helsinki‑based milliner and designer whose work sits at the intersection of fashion, sculpture, and sustainability. Known for her bold silhouettes, expressive forms, and joyful use of colour, Paula creates headpieces that expand on traditional ideas of millinery and celebrate headwear as wearable art.

Before focusing on hats, Paula spent nearly a decade running her own sustainable fashion label, an experience that deeply shaped her design philosophy and hands‑on approach to making. Her creative path also includes explore jewellery design and goldsmithing, disciplines that continue to influence the structural, sculptural qualities of her millinery work. Seeking to refine her craft further, Paula went on to formally study millinery at Stadin AO with Anu Kaukola, where she developed a strong technical foundation.

Today, Paula’s practice is rooted in craftsmanship, with every piece handmade in her Helsinki studio. From hand‑blocked bases to carefully shaped details, her work reflects a deep respect for process, materiality, and time‑honoured methods.

Sustainability plays a central role in her designs. Paula frequently incorporates rescued, vintage, and recycled materials, giving new life to forgotten textiles, braids, and components. Rather than following trends, she approaches millinery as an artistic practice, focusing on form, balance, and emotional expression.

Her headpieces are designed to spark joy, invite conversation, and empower the wearer, whether for special occasions or everyday moments of self‑expression. On this podcast, Paula shares insights into her creative journey, the realities of building a slow and sustainable practice, and the importance of craftsmanship in contemporary fashion—offering inspiration for designers, makers, and creative entrepreneurs alike.

This podcast is hosted and produced by Lauren Ritchie and edited by Maria Volkova for MillineryInfo