How did you become interested in millinery?
After a degree in Arts, I completed a course of couture and tailoring, one of my fascinations since I was a child. By then, I wanted to acquire different and others techniques and skills of “making” in general, but especially in the accessories section, like hats.
Where and why did you learn millinery?
In Liège, Belgium, at the school of artisanal techniques. I followed both theatrical/historical and couture millinery.
How long have you been a milliner for? Where else did you work? Who do you make hats for?
I have been creating hats for more than five years now. I started in Belgium, where my flat was my workshop, my factory and eventually my home. I used to make small collections out of vintage fabrics, as well as special commissions mainly for weddings. Actually, my business has really started two years ago, when I have moved to London to work as a designer in a well-established English hat company. I now design and produce for my own label and the other company under the same roof.
Where do you get inspiration for your designs?
It comes from a variety of elements: sculpture and arts, people’s looks, fabrics and textures, fashion couture… In general, the more I work, the more I get inspired.
What has been your most enjoyable commission?
Every time I make someone happy by wearing one of my hats.
How would you describe your style of hats?
Stylish, quirky, neat… but always evolving.
Who do you make hats for?
Most of the time I make hats because I love it, I do not think of who is going to wear them, but it is always a pleasure to answer the customer’s wishes. All year long, I create two collections divided into categories.
What materials and techniques do you favor?
All sorts of materials and experimentations. At the moment with felt, leather, cork, angora, vintage fabrics such as old curtains, paper…
Any other interests?
Travelling, making my own clothes when I find the time for it.
