Irene van Vugt is a renowned Dutch hat and bag designer celebrated for her meticulous craftsmanship and innovative approach to 3D design. A graduate of the School of the Arts in Utrecht in 1995, Irene has carved out a successful career as an independent designer, gaining recognition both in the Netherlands and internationally.

Irene’s signature style is a distinctive blend of historical influences and modern aesthetics. She draws inspiration from various historical periods, incorporating classical elements into her designs while infusing them with a contemporary twist. This unique combination sets her work apart, making each piece not only a fashion statement but also a work of art.

A hallmark of Irene’s work is her detailed approach to material research and technique development. She is dedicated to exploring and experimenting with new materials, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in hat and bag design. This rigorous process ensures that every piece she creates is meticulously finished, showcasing her exceptional skill and attention to detail. Her expertise in this area has earned her a place in The Hat Magazine, where she contributes to the research and testing departments. Through her articles, she shares her findings on new materials and techniques, influencing and inspiring her peers in the industry.

Irene’s passion for design is matched by her love for teaching. She is committed to sharing her knowledge and skills with others, fostering a new generation of designers. She regularly teaches at local art schools, where she conducts workshops and courses in hat and bag making. Additionally, Irene offers vocational training from her studio in Utrecht, providing hands-on learning experiences for aspiring designers. Her teaching approach emphasizes the importance of creativity, precision, and a thorough understanding of materials and techniques.

Irene’s contributions to The Hat Magazine are a testament to her skill within the industry. In her role within the research and testing departments, she delves into the latest advancements in materials and methods, offering valuable insights that help shape the future of hat design. Her publications serve as a resource for fellow designers, providing them with the knowledge needed to innovate and excel in their craft.

Throughout her career, Irene has achieved numerous milestones. Her work has been featured in fashion shows, exhibitions, fashion and art museums.

Stephanie Spencer is the winner of the 2020 Myer Millinery Award.  The winning piece was a nod to surrealism taking the form of parisisal ballet shoes that were mounted on the head.  Stephanie had come up with the idea and then created the piece during the lockdown period in Melbourne.  In the podcast she shares about the process and the consideration of construction techniques she undertook.  

She first took a millinery class in Perth with Waltraud Reiner before moving to Melbourne to pursue her career in fashion and design were she learnt from Richard Nylon.  Upon launching her own brand you can see the influence of Stephanie’s background in fashion and textile design. Stephanie Spencer Millinery creates modern silhouettes that combine with gorgeous hand finishing techniques to form unique pieces.  She has a strong knowledge of millinery materials having spent time working at Torb and Reiner (now Millinery Hub).

Based in a Collingwood studio Stephanie explores the idea of a hat as canvas. She speaks with us about some of her favourite projects in the local fashion industry which includes working with Toni Maticevski during Fashion Week.