Member News | Wild Pony Hat Bar opens their new home at Basila Frocks

June 2026
Wild Pony Hat Bar, San Antonio's experiential custom hat brand is proud to announce the opening at its newest location inside the historic Basila Frocks building on the city's west side. The new storefront will officially welcome guests beginning June 27, 2026, brining together creativity, craftsmanship, and community in one of San Antonio's most meaningful revitalization projects.
Founded by Casey Russell, Wild Pony Hat Bar was built on the belief that what we wear tells a story - and that the experiences we share while creating those pieces matter just as much as the finished product.
After spending more than fifteen years in corporate leadership with companies including Nike and Boeing, Russell made the leap into entrepreneurship to build something rooted in human connection. What began as a mobile hat experience has grown into a thriving San Antonio business serving everyone from luxury resorts and corporate conferences to weddings, festivals, and neighborhood gatherings.
Today, Wild Pony enters its next chapter.
"Opening at Basila Frocks isn't just about expanding our business. It's about becoming part of something much bigger. The West side has rich history of resilience, creativity, entrepreneurship, and pride. We are honored to plant roots in a place that has always represented community and opportunity, and we are committed to serving the people who call this neighborhood home."
- Casey Russell, Founder & CEO, Wild Pony Hat Bar
Originally Built in 1929, Basila Frocks has been thoughtfully restored as mixed-use destination dedicated to preserving history while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and community programming. The building's revival reflects the same values that have guided Wild Pony since its founding: authenticity, creativity, inclusion, and kindness.
At the new location, guests will be invited to do more than simply purchase a hat. They will be welcomed into a space designed for gathering, storytelling, and self-expression. Visitors can customize cowboy hats and flat brims through hat shaping, branding, accessories, and personalized styling while participating in workshops, community events, family experiences, and celebrations that bring people together.

