How did you become interested in millinery?
My husband (until recently) for many years owned and breed race horses as a hobby and I was a fashion designer, so I thought I would go and learn more about millinery to add to my skills and to make hats to match my garments. I had already done a small course in millinery which was part of my Associate Diploma of Fashion Couture Stand many years ago. Once I started learning millinery on its own I discovered I love making hats more than fashion garments, and I no longer design garments expect only for myself.
Where and why did you learn millinery?
At Ultimo TAFE certificate 3 and 4 and theatrical millinery.
How long have you been a milliner for?
I have been doing millinery for about 5 years now and before that I was doing fashion designing and owned my own fashion boutique. This year I won The Public Vote Award and Third Prize in The Hat Designer of the Year contest in London which is in this months The Hat Magazine Issue 31. It was a lot of hard work but I did enjoy doing it.
Where do you get inspiration for your designs?
I get my inspirations from all kinds of things: feathers, flowers, lace, buildings, nature and the world around me, but, when designing for a client, I get my inspiration from the garment they will be wearing, occasion and what will suit them along with what they would like their hat or headpieces made from and trimmed in.
What has been your most enjoyable commission?
All my commissions have been enjoyable. Last week I finished making a beautiful headpiece for a bride. She was getting married on the 25 November, which was my wedding anniversary. This made it extra special. I made for her a sculptured headpiece from champagne coloured straw with lots of feathers (as she loved feathers) and Swarovski crystals. It looked stunning and very original for a bride, so that was very satisfying.
Who do you make hats for?
Women going to the races and bridal.
What materials and techniques do you favor?
I like working with beads feathers and lace and I like to do a lot of hand sculpturing.
Any other interests?
Animals and my pets, live shows and concerts, movies and traveling.
