FASHION
best british
MILLINERS | BY FELICITY CARTER
Photos courtesy of each brand
T
he art of millinery has a rich and distinguished history. After all, hats have been worn for thousands of years, developing from practical uses to transcending into the fashion industry. It was during the 18th century when millinery first became a profession, the word deriving from ‘Milan’—a city that had textiles in abundance and established itself as the center of fashion where fashionable ladies would collate to have their special headwear creations made (while hatters were reserved for gentlemen). A hub for milliners, the UK dons some of the most talented makers, and of course, there are plenty of events to wear them to, Royal Ascot being a famous example. Here, the late Queen Elizabeth showcased her headwear from 1946 and continued to do so every year; the 1980s saw the likes of Princess Diana don her statement hats, along with international royalty and the fashionable. A staple of the social season, beautifully made headwear can also be seen on celebrities; cue Lady Gaga right through to the catwalk of leading fashion houses.
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Alex Harper
Stephen Jones Millinery Think British milliner and think Stephen Jones. After studying at London’s famous St Martins in the ‘70s, he’d find himself in the legendary Blitz nightclub, where the fun and the fabulous would congregate. And, of course, he’d wear one of his head-turning creations. By 1980 he had opened his debut millinery salon in Covent Garden, which was frequented by everyone from rock stars to royalty, including Boy George to Diana and Princess of Wales, and from then on, he established himself as the milliner to be seen in. Artist, futuristic, interesting, and intriguing in design, his pieces are also defined by exquisite craftsmanship. This stylish amalgamation has seen him continue to attract a celebrity clientele that includes Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Mick Jagger, and British and international royalty. Along the way, he’s also collaborated with leading designers such as Vivienne Westwood, Thom Browne, and Christian Dior, where Jones’ hats have been an integral element in some of the most notable runway scenes of the past quarter century. Stephen Jones
54 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | AUG/SEPT 2023
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