ABOUT

the maker

Bang Bang was ignited by a spark of inspiration when founder Kricia Storms unexpectedly discovered a hat-making shop during a trip to Austin, Texas. Despite her fashion background, nothing had prepared her for the sense of aliveness she felt witnessing the craft firsthand. The blend of century-old tools and techniques, paired with the tactile experience of working with her hands, pulled her into a captivating journey of creative exploration in the art of hat-making.

Through her research, Kricia quickly realized that mastering the art of hat-making would be no simple task. Traditionally, the craft was passed down through generations, with seasoned artisans closely guarding their trade secrets, making it tough for outsiders to break in. But as the youngest of five, Kricia was no stranger to persistence. Refusing to take ‘no’ for an answer, she expanded her search globally. That’s when she discovered a three-month hat-making course in Florence, Italy, where she could gain the essential skills needed to fast-track her dream of becoming a an entrepreneur.

Kricia’s 15 years of sales and marketing experience, paired with her degree in apparel merchandising and product development, set the stage for her unexpected journey into the world of custom hats. After graduating, her career plans were derailed by the 2008 recession shortly after she began working for a major fashion retailer in Atlanta, Georgia. Returning to Indiana to regroup, Kricia shifted gears into sales and marketing, all the while wondering how she could realign with her original path. Eventually, she let go of what she thought her life should have been and embraced the opportunities unfolding before her. In 2019, that journey led her to Bozeman, Montana—a town she had to Google at the time, long before its fame from the hit TV series Yellowstone. Taking a leap of faith, she moved across the country to the picturesque mountain town she now calls home. After the pandemic and a few years of working remotely, she found herself in a creative rut, which sparked a spontaneous trip to Austin. It was there she discovered the art of hat-making—a craft she never realized was missing from her life.

Now, as the proud owner of Bang Bang, a custom hat experience brand, Kricia brings the same passion and dedication that guided her journey into every hat she creates. Each piece is crafted with care, blending traditional techniques with modern sensibilities to deliver hats that are as unique as the individuals who wear them. Bang Bang isn’t just about hats; it’s about creating a one-of-a-kind experience that leaves a lasting impression. From the moment a client steps into her studio, they become part of a creative process that celebrates individuality, craftsmanship, and the story behind every custom design. Kricia’s journey from Indiana to Bozeman, with a life-changing stop in Austin, has shaped the heart of Bang Bang—an expression of art, adventure, and personal style that’s as bold and authentic as the people who wear her hats.