The "Ascot Hat".

Everyone knows the Ascot Races, they are as famous worldwide for their world-class racing as for the style and glamour the festival attracts. This summer I was completely honoured to have ITV presenter Charlotte Hawkins wear one of my designs on "Gold Cup", Ladies Day.

How it all came about was a

Designing the hat.

This hat came from my love of vintage and in particular the 40's and 50's. While reading and researching post-war fashions, I was drawn to the image of the "New Look", designed by Christian Dior. It was a visually stunning image, and part of Dior's post-war attempt to revive France's fashion industry. The trade-mark curvaceous silhouette where the hips were padded and waists were cinched and minimised with corsets, topped with a large brimmed hat.