Though we may still be in the depths of winter, the enquiries for bespoke couture hats and headpieces for events taking place over the spring and summer months are already coming in thick and fast.
So with appointments for millinery commissions being booked for events taking place throughout 2025, I thought it might be helpful to explain how the process of commissioning your own bespoke hat or headpiece works in practice.
Seen above is Eliza – a stunning pink, orange and green Dior-inspired picture hat. you can more information about Eliza here
A bespoke hat or headpiece is a one of kind creation, that you commission a milliner to make for your special event. When I design and make your occasion headwear, I aim to create hats and headpieces to reflect and enhance the wearer’s personality, complimenting the outfit whilst encapsulating the nature of the occasion.
I also believe it is important that when wearing one of my hats or headpieces, you feel completely and utterly special. Each bespoke couture commission is handmade in my studio especially for you, to the specifications we have agreed upon. Shapes are hand-blocked, with the trimmings and flowers expertly made, and shaped by hand.
Pictured above at Doxford Barns is Sherry and her daughter Helen. Sherry wears a small button headpiece that she commissioned me to make, picking up the design and colours in here wonderful outfit.
Usually we have had an initial chat about the event and the outfit you are planning. Often these early conversations take place when we meet in person at an event such as a wedding fair, though if you find me via Google and so on, or you heard about me by personal recommendation, this conversation could be a phone call or by text.
The bespoke commission process starts with an initial in-person visit to my studio in NE67 or NE1 – though for pieces with universal head fittings this could also take place by Zoom – to look through and try on a selection of samples.
Once we have discussed the type of event and nature of the headpiece you are interested in, together we select the shape itself, then the design, styling and fabric choices follow – these may include parisisal straw, luxury felt, fine silks, lace, flowers, feathers, veiling and beading.
Seen above is Eva – an aquamarine sinamay headband with handmade silk abaca and velvet flowers. You can find more information about this style here
It’s very helpful if you are able to bring a sample of your fabric with you to the appointment, many bring the dress itself, though I appreciate that this is not always possible! The first consultation lasts about 1-1.5hrs, and once the bespoke commission details have been agreed, the non-returnable deposit is due.
Throughout the commission-making process I stay in touch by email, WhatsApp, or FaceTime to update you on progress. Once the shape has been made there will be a further consultation (for a headpiece with a universal fitting this can be by Zoom) to check the fitting and to confirm the choice of trims and finishes.
At the final appointment, we have a grand trying-on session and I will explain to you how to adjust your headpiece. The balance on your commission is paid and your hat is packed away in its very own hat box. Your headpiece design will take four to six weeks to create, you can find further details here.
Seen above is Jessica – a gold lustre sinamay softly rounded three-dimensional crown style headband finished with handmade flowers, beaded centres and wires tendrils. You can find more information about Jessica here
If you are the bride – when you’re planning your big day there are so many decisions to make! No sooner have you resolved the date, and chosen the venue, than it’s time to think dress, bridal headpiece and veil, bridesmaids, cake, photographer, flowers and so on – gosh the list is endless!
I can guide you through the styles, headpiece and veil options that work for you, tailoring your look to compliment the dress of your dreams – whether you want your bespoke couture headpiece to make a grand statement or to simply add that classic finishing touch. The design of your headpiece follows a similar pattern to that outlined above, however your design will take longer, normally six to eight weeks to create.
Seen above is Selina – a handmade couture three-dimensional arched bridal crown, finished with white silk satin entirely covered with laser-cut organza petals and hand-beaded. A birdcage veil can also be added to finish the look of your handmade couture bridal crown. You can find more information about Selina here
In my Online Store I also offer a number of couture designs that are available to be purchased. So please do take a look in the online store where you will find a selection of bridal, MOB, as well as race day and cocktail hats and headpieces in the Ready to Wear Online Store.
Once you’ve checked out the styles on my website, if you would like to arrange an appointment to see my Ready to Wear collections or to discuss commissioning a bespoke couture piece for your special occasion, please do get in touch.
Seen above is Matilda – a stunning oversized tonal silk and velvet flower headpiece set on a comfortable couture padded ivory satin headband, with accent veiling. Matilda is an ideal MOB statement or occasion headpiece. You can find more information about Matilda here
My exclusive hats and headpiece designs have been worn at every sort of event, near and far, at home and abroad, at grand occasions, official engagements, racedays, as well as fun days too! So I do hope this post has gone some way to explain a little of the mystique behind commissioning a hat, headpiece or fascinator made to your own specifications, design and colour options.
If you would like to know more about commissioning a bespoke hat or headpiece, or to view my current collections, please use the “Book a Consultation” link below.