I am writing this after the end of a fantastic week in London. It was, of course, my first London Hat Week. Towards the end of last year, I heard the exciting news that I had been invited exhibit at London Hat Week 2018. This year, the prestigious event brought together talented milliners from across the world, showcasing over 300 hats from 37 countries. And I was also just one of thirty milliners who was invited to join the Press Preview Day.
The theme of London Hat Week 2018 was “The Great Hat Exhibition”, inspired by The Great Exhibition of London in 1851, which celebrated modern industrial technology and design. All entries were inspired by a piece of history or culture or created using a unique technique or craft from their chosen country. My hat which is named Oswaldtwistle or Ossy for short was been inspired by the Industrial Revolution.
Whilst in London, I was delighted to meet Stephen Jones OBE at the London Hat Week launch party. He is known for being one of the most important milliners of our time and has worked with the likes of Dior and Vivienne Westwood. He also happens to be one of my favourite milliners. And guess what? He comes from Wirral - just like me.
On the Saturday, Stockport Hat Museum had a pop-up exhibition. Clair Hughes was doing a book signing. Clair has put 5 years research into this wonderful book. More than the history of hats, it delves into hat etiquette too - my new favourite book!
I also made a stop off at Southwark Cathedral to deliver a bespoke mother of the bride hat to Bev Stower. Two birds, one stone! It was a fabulous venue for her daughter's special day and Bev looked very elegant.
I'm back in Wirral now with plenty of ideas and inspiration after my whirlwind adventure down in London. I have two exciting workshops coming up with Fieldcrest and Williamson's Art Gallery and several commisions to crack on with ...