Pictured with Marea Bright’s “Hatters Tea Party”.

How did you become interested in millinery ?

My interest in millinery perhaps first stems from Kabuki Theatre and the Peony Opera -- hypnotic presentational depiction of costume in Asiatic arts; embossed fabrics of red and gold, dangling tinsel bling -- staging its own performance on the side of the headpiece -- while the actor danced beneath. Then perhaps it is headdress of indigenous cultures of the world. The symbolism, purpose, ceremony and decoration of hats -- a mainstay in human culture. Then I think of the Mardi Gras in Rio -- the mastery of sculptural design -- physics of height and weight. Then perhaps, in fashion I see a hat sets an outfit. Certain style, colour and movement placing the individual apart in their pride to wear their hat.

For all of these reasons, and above all I became interested in millinery because of the colour, form, movement and functionality of a hat.

My studies in Millinery began in 1986 at the Melbourne School of Millinery and then with the Kangan Batman TAFE. Since I have enjoyed several courses including Hats Off To Adelaide. In July 2007 will enjoy Hats Off To Melbourne. I maintain millinery is a life long apprenticeship. I dedicate all to my millinery educators, to the creative ingenuity of my colleagues in millinery, and to the support shown to milliners from horse racing, retail and exhibits. My textile arts business, Hats For Your Trip was formed around 2001.

Where do you get your inspiration?

The inspiration for my hats comes from the textile itself and forms in nature. Hats are couture and more. Hats are sculptured textile. Wearable art, elegant to exotic. Certainly the most inspired exhibition of hats seen is the Melbourne Cup Carnival. But the most memorable for me was Philip Treacy’s “When Philip met Isabella” (RMIT 2003).

What has been your most enjoyable commission?

The most enjoyable commission I have done was inspired by a piece within an exhibition of Arabic scripture, viewed at the Ian Potter Centre (The University of Melbourne) and exhibited at the Millinery Collection 2003. The ink on paper was by Ali Omar Ermes called ‘Harf al-Kaf’, a hieroglyphic representation of the Arabic letter “K”. The hieroglyph held a striking resemblance to the form of a horse and lent itself to the sinamay creation (see left). Arabic legend has it that the horse is created from wind. I whispered all throughout the creation of the piece.

How would you describe your style of hats?

Art: Yes. But by stark contrast the fashion editor of ‘The Age’ in October 2003 then described the piece “a metre high Trojan horse”.

Who do you make hats for?

I predominantly produce street wear. Everyday wear hats made of various textiles, including wool and faux fur. Still from my studio at home, my distinctive millinery style that reflects my experience, and appreciation of a wide range of artistic mediums.

What materials and techniques do you favour?

Without doubt my favourite expression is costume millinery.

Any other interests?

Loads.....

Contact Information

Donna Saunders

www.hatsforyourtrip.com.au

Mobile: +61 4 0918 0930

Email: DonnaSaunders@hatsforyourtrip.com.au

Examples of her work

WWW Millinery.info