Milliner of the Month: Julie Anne Lucas

This month we had the pleasure of interviewing Dubai milliner Julie Anne Lucas, this is what she had to say.

How did you become interested in millinery ?

I became interested in millinery while studying for my Diploma in Fashion Design and Manufacture in Perth, Australia.

Where and did you learn millinery ?

I completed the millinery components of my Diploma in Fashion Design and Manufacture at Seaforth College in Sydney and enjoyed it so much that I haven't stopped making hats and collecting hat blocks since.

How long have you been a milliner for ? Where else did you work ?

For the last four years we have been living in Dubai and this is the first time that I have relied solely on my millinery for an income. Before moving here, millinery was more of a hobby for me as I worked in administration during the day and made hats at night.

Where do you get inspiration for your designs ?

I don't know where I get my inspiration for my designs - it just happens. I love glamorous hats and there is nothing more rewarding than seeing the transformation in a ladies' appearance when she puts the right hat on. It is a shame we don't wear hats more often.

Who do you make hats for ?

The Dubai World Cup, which was held on 25 March 2006, was my third Cup. All year I make hats and sell them in the ten days leading up to the Cup. I try to have around two hundred hats finished for each Cup. I only make one of each design and they are all hand finished.

What materials and techniques do you favour?

This year I mainly used sinamay and I enjoy this material because of the flexibility it allows you to mould to any shape. I also use other straws and fabric (mainly raw silk) though I do not use felts very often, due to the climate here.

Any other interests?

Millinery provides me with a creative outlet and balances my interests which also include investment in real estate and renovating houses and a few other ventures. My other interests include drawing and painting, reading and cooking (mainly Italian food).

Contact Information:

email: julie_ml@emirates.net.ae
phone: +971 4 380 1411

Some examples of her work: