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hats

Fashion

How to store hats and fascinators

16th September, 2019

I recently received a question on Instagram regarding ways to store hats and fascinators and thought it was such a great topic to do a post on. Given their shape and delicate nature, it is important to store both properly so they don’t get misshapen or damaged. When it comes to attending races, both are key so I think it pays to go to the extra effort of storing them to ensure their longevity.

I’ve got a number of difference pieces that I really love, having collected them over the years and I think the first thing is to be prepared to have some allocated space to store your pieces. Storage options for both can be a little bulky so designate an area in your wardrobe to house them all.

Storing hats

When it comes to hats I think drum boxes are perfect. They’re the right shape and will ensure that your hat is protected from the elements and can sit flat. Ensure that you get the right size so you’re not having to squash it in, as that can lead to it losing its shape. An alternative is to collect sturdy large boxes that may have stored other purchases (I’ve kept some beautiful Hermes boxes for this purpose) and pop your hats in there.

Storing fascinators

Depending on how embellished the design is, I recommend storing fascinators in two ways. You can either take the same route as your hats and store them in boxes, wrapping them in tissue paper to offer a little extra protection. Otherwise you can layer them in a drawer or cupboard, with tissue paper between each layer. Just be sure that you’re only stacking a couple on top of one another as having a heavy stack will surely lead to one of them losing their shape. Ideally it’s probably better to keep to a single layer if you can, but if space doesn’t permit, the above option is a viable alternative.

Fashion

Get race day ready with Nerida Winter

6th October, 2016

nerida-2

Over the years I’ve worn so many great pieces from milliner extraordinaire Nerida Winter to the races. You can always rely on one of her pieces to make a statement trackside. As spring racing season ramps up and Melbourne Cup is just around the corner I asked Nerida for some insider tips on top racewear trends to look out for plus how to pull together a perfect outfit.

How did you establish such a successful name as a milliner?

A lot of continuous hard work and dedication – I  think family upbringing has a lot to do with it too – I grew up with a creative father who taught me to think outside the square and that a spade was not necessarily a spade, it could be anything I wanted it to be. My mum and grandmother were always teaching me some form of arts and crafts, so it was a very colourful house!

What is the most important style advice you have ever received?

Follow your own look and not others .

Who inspires you?

Vivienne Westwood has inspired me for decades – I adore her fearlessness and her punk-like qualities.

What trends will we see for the racing season this year?

There is something for everyone this season.  I love the idea of mixing in some 70s glam and the 80s’ strong structural dresses could be a lot of fun to wear [to the races]. The modern take on tailoring is understated and elegant and I think the Victorian style dresses are incredible and I can’t wait to see how girls interpret those for the track.

What colours, textures and styles will we see for headwear this year?

My favourites are the pleats, lace, ruffles, florals – femme heaven! I’m also loving all the pinks, reds and there is still a bit of sparkle about. Monochrome looks are Derby Day essentials – from sculptural wide brimmed shapes to smaller florals.

What are your tips for putting together the perfect racing outfit?

Investing in good craftsmanship and quality of design will allow you to wear the pieces more than once. The power of tailoring is often underestimated.

What dressing mistakes should women avoid? 

Don’t let your headwear be an afterthought – it’s the piece that makes the day so special.

When dressing for the races, be careful not to overdo it – I like to focus on one piece, whether that is the hat, the dress, shoe or bag and build the outfit around that. Too many times you see the accessories competing with the outfit and it can look really forced and costume like.

It’s a long day on your feet, so wearing your shoes in a little first is wise (I learnt the hard way).

Do you have an all time favourite head piece? 

Absolutely – I have had a lifetime love of all things punk rock, so my feathered mohawks have been a staple in my wardrobe.