merino wool

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  • Buy something extraordinary and love it.  Wear it all the time. I posted SO many pictures of this hat as it shows how rich it looks from every angle.  A modern fabric handmade by fusing silk velour with wool, this hat catches the light emphasizing its beauty with a nod to vintage design.  Wear it with a wool coat, feather boa, high-necked sweater, or cashmere shawl, this hat wants to accompany you on every outing you take this winter and fall.  Versatile, a simple design, and oh, so luxurious...
  • Out of stock
    Sometimes I make hats and they exceed my expectations, and this one is one of them.  The upcycled silk scarf  is brown with gold velvet which when combined with brown wool created this hood - so lush and rich in character.  The big geometric shapes remind me of ancient Egyptian's eyeliner, so placing the print over the wearer's left eye is a nod to Cleopatra and the beauty of that ancient culture.  This one is a stunner from all angles, a work of wearable art.  
  • This cloche embodies Art Deco in the 1920/30's.  Art Deco design is characterized by layered shapes, intricate line art, aerodynamic shapes and metallic colors like gold and chrome.  This zigzag modern take on the 20's cloche is a one of a kind show-stopper.  The hat band is an upcycled beaded strap from a dress and some petals on the 3D flower are done made using un-felted silk, emphasizing the size of the original silk pattern.  A real statement piece, it can be worn to an even or a special night out, or simply as daywear teamed with a warm sweater or wool coat.  Glamour and Luxury, Art-Deco inspired wearable art.
  • When you wear a hat or any fashion that "fits" physically and stylistically you stand taller, feeling more secure and confident.  You know today is going to be a good day...equal to a great hair day or simply driving when all the traffic lights turn green as you commute to work. Deborah is one of those "sure thing" additions to your wardrobe.    She's luxurious to feel and looks like a foreign fabric, perhaps fur.  People won't believe she's handmade felt with her muted colors and subtle patterns.  The hint of animal print on the edge, she will support any look you want, be it casual or on a night out.  You won't have to say a word with her on, people will take note of it promoting the beautiful you...  She's a woman of action and few words.
  • Kintsugi

    $315.00
    Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with gold — with the concept that an even stronger, more beautiful piece of art will emerge by incorporating its defects and imperfections. Every break is seen as unique and instead of repairing an item like new, or throwing an item away, the 400-year-old craft now highlights the "scars" as a part of the design.This Kintsugi hat is a modern take of this timeless technique. A traditional shape, this bowler features a side-swept crown at the front. The silk’s pinstripe velour flecked in gold is a staple of evening fashion, highlighting the shape of the hat with the geometry of the print. Gold beading fills in the space between the silk fabric ends, an organic pattern that emerged from the hand-felting, as if it was a broken piece of porcelain. The beads imply the flow of gold, as it is laid between the broken segments of the original hat. Sometimes in the process of repairing such a piece, we can create something more distinctive, beautiful and resilient. Timeless, yet scarred with a story from each unique piece. Kintsugi is a tender embrace of time, mishap and serendipity.
  • This hat is a modern take on the classic fedora.  Shaped by hand, the uniqueness and elegance of this hat will turn everyone's head.  The brown classic bow and grosgrain brim contrast with the subtle yet playful polka dot silk.  The silk is from an up-cycled skirt that I thrifted and actually wore for a season!  Its re-birth as a beautiful fedora will ensure that it continues to provide joy to the wearer for years to come.  A gorgeous hat for fall, winter and spring.
  • Brownie Wise was the ultimate party planner, inventing the idea of home parties to promote Tupperware in the 1950's.  During convention weekend Jubilees lavish gifts and rewards were presented and elaborate treasure hunts were done with prizes buried underground.  This hat, "Brownie Mae", would be what she would choose to wear.  Stylish, commanding and luxurious.  Her  desire for happiness helped recruit thousands of women into a career at a time when a woman's role was conventionally tied to the home. In 1954 she became the first woman to appear on the cover of Business Week magazine.   This hat is handmade felt.  The upcycled sequined silk fabric is fused with raw merino wool in a process of wet felting called nuno felting.  Once the fabric/felt hood is created, it is blocked over a vintage heated block and shaped by hand. The silk velour hat band is dyed to match the peach/red tone of the felt.  This hat is halfway between a regular felt and gossamer in its weight, with the density of the sequins helping to create structure.  Beautiful from every angle, comfortable, and yes...sensible. This hat fits a small-sized head, 21.25-21.5″ in circumference.  If you have any questions about size, please contact me. "No Matter who you are, you alone can give the world something that it can get from no other source" - Brownie Wise.  
  • Wildflower

    $300.00
    This large-brimmed hat features a deep crown and wildflowers everywhere.  A striking hat that will draw the eye of those around you, a signature piece that is both formal yet relaxed.  Confident, elegant and beautiful, this hat will be great in the shoulder seasons and winter to keep your head warm. "She sprouted love like flowers, grew a garden in her mind, and even on the darkest days, from her smile the sun still shined."  - Erin Hanson
  • Annette

    $300.00
    Early morning with your coffee in hand, you slide on your sandals and wander into your garden.  The day is calm and the smell of roses starts to perfuse the air, warming in the sun.  This hat is that feeling that you don't have to leave behind when autumn and winter arrive.  You can drop your shoulders and relax every time you reach for this hat.  I wish I could infuse a smell of roses into this hat (hahah - I can't) to keep you company over the winter, reminding you that spring and summer are not that far away...  
  • Out of stock
    This hat whisks you from where you are to New York City.  A place of unlimited fashion freedom.  Where black is the main color of clothing, styled into sharp, intelligent and unique outfits.  The key to the outfit?  The power of a well-chosen accessory... This hat is edgy and can be worn many ways.  By changing its place on your head, even by one inch, the whole feel of the hat changes.  Pull it down to demurely cover one eye increasing the mystery...  Tilt it upward a little, and it has the feel of a modern 60's Maud hat. The point is...why not bring a little NYC home.  Be that person to keep that fashion flair alive, right where you live. "Personal style is attitude, attitude, attitude.  It has to come from within.  You have to develop things yourself".  - Iris Apfel  
  • Beatrice

    $285.00
    Subtle hints of greys, blues, and gold comprise this stunning work of art. Appropriate for any occasion, and perfect for supporting loved ones on their wedding day. This piece is unique and timeless.
  • Out of stock
    When you put this hat on it brings out something special in you.  Some see it as an occasion hat (winter wedding), others as a casual topper (to the market or out for supper), but whichever way you choose to wear it, it will turn heads and make you shine.  Joy in Blush gossamer features drape from the glass beads, character from the upcycled dress and sensibility as it will protect you from cooler temperatures or inclement weather.  Perfect for the shoulder seasons, it makes you feel special and exude joy.
  • Mrs. Gray

    $275.00
    According to Kate Smith (sensationalcolor.com) "Gray is the color of intellect and of compromise. It’s a diplomatic color, negotiating all the distance between black and white. We typically consider gray to be conservative, elegant, and cool, though it can be a bit mysterious".  It is the color which supports and enhances all others, and in the palette of this hat enhances the natural golds, and browns and dusty blues of the silk on merino wool.  Sophisticated and stately with a casual flair, this hat will not only keep you warm during cooler weather, it can be dressed up or down when  paired with a sweater, jacket, or scarf for many an outing.
  • Elena

    $275.00
    Elena is a stunner.  Textured silk with gorgeous fabric detailing is fused with merino wool to make this elegant statement piece.  She can be dressed up or down, worn more casually for a stroll outside or paired with a winter coat to accompany you on an evening out.  You WILL turn heads in this hat, you will be noticed.
  • Flight

    $275.00
    This demi-chapeau sits almost as a beret would, with the long side sweeping down your right hairline.  The print is fresh, with purple patterns on turquoise.  Highlighted by a mount of lavender feathers it is reminiscent of a bird of paradise, oozing notes of spring, summer or the tropics.  With this hat you are ready to take flight! Sophisticated and head-turning, this hat is comfortable to wear and the handmade felt make it a one-of-a-kind piece.  To the races, a wedding, or a special occasion, this hat will set you and your outfit alight.
  • I'm going to let you in on a Behind-the-scenes moment for Trish Raine.  Sometimes I struggle with creating pieces and this hat was a  battle royale.  I made the felt, then hemmed and hawed at the resulting hood.  I discussed the merino wool fibre with a friend and finally decided to make a soft fedora.  Once made, I longingly searched my many containers full of bands, bows, ribbon, flowers and feathers to come up with a finish that I would be pleased with.  I ended up upcycling a be-jeweled t-shirt I'd been wearing for years, plucking the hundreds of odd-shaped jewels into a bowl, then randomly sewing them onto this hat. The result is a stunningly beautiful fedora I would call a showpiece.  It has sweet flowers, leopard print and green delicate foliage that peers from around the jeweled crown.  So soft and comfortable to wear, it oozes casual elegance.  It was well-worth the battle and patience to persevere. "I try to make it look easy, but the behind the scenes stuff is the challenge".  - Stephen Curry
  • This hat has an 80's gold "trophy wife" dress fused with black wool.  All the beads and sequins draped over the crown of the hat reminds me of molten gold.  A showstopper piece, this can be worn casually to a market, a function or a night out.  The crown features an indented swoosh that highlights the movement of the beads across the hat.  One-of-a-kind, this hat is a head-turner from every angle.
  • Out of stock
    If I could pick ANY celebrity to wear this hat, I would pick Helen Mirren.  Her nod to casual fashion, her attitude on ageing, her fight for better roles and jobs for women in Hollywood, and being a norm-defying badass.  I bet she would love this hat even more if she knew it was from a thrift shop / up-cycled dress! I picture a cool autumn or winter day in London where she has to go out.  Her casual chic outfit in subdued denim and a textured jacket, her favorite leather boots.  Toss on this gossamer and with grace and elegance, she is out the door.  Warm and glamourous.
  • Lacey

    $250.00
    This hat glistens with texture!  A velour silk scarf was fused with merino wool to make this hat. A casual yet feminine version of the traditionally-male bowler hat.
  • Iris Dot can be dressed up or down for an elegant evening or casual outing.  The up-cycled silk that was felted into the wool was also used to create a headband, showing just how much the wool changes not only the size of the print, but the look of the fabric.  I acquired the fur pompom on a trip to Beijing four years ago!  It trims this hat so well, hinting at colder days that are coming!  Paired with a wool coat or chunky turtleneck sweater, this hat will keep your head warm in all sorts of fall/winter weather.
  • Eleanor

    $250.00
    This is a cloche/turban with a vintage feel and modern sensibilities.  I named her Eleanor, to honor Eleanor Roosevelt who made such a significant impact on civil and women's rights.  A woman who carved out a new role for first wives and pioneered women's rights.  I would like to think she would like this understated yet eye-catching hat.  One of a kind, sensible and fashion forward.  "The Future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt
  • In the late winter most of us crave color, a warm breeze and to feel the heat of the sun.  New growth shows itself slowly as the snow recedes.  There is a sense of joy, of hope and new beginnings.  Plans start to form for getting (and staying) outside, perhaps even seeing family or friends we've not been able to see...  While Covid-19 has made the last year very difficult and perhaps has made the winter feel especially long, I think there is renewed hope and relaxation with the thought of the arrival of spring. This hat is so very cheerful and spring-like.  The silk is upcycled from a skirt that has embroidered flowers at the top and bottom, the middle being a pile of delicate leaves.  I'm thrilled with how they've clustered on the hat, as it looks as if your head is a garden bed blooming beautiful flowers!  A vintage turban design with a modern twist using upcycled fashion.  What a bouquet!
  • Out of stock
    The red poppy - highly symbolic and aesthetically pleasing.  It has been known to represent sleep, peace and death, to produce opiates and cause wars. For me it is a flower that quickly captures my attention.  The velvet feeling of its petals, both vibrant and yet so delicate.  The tall stem that looks as if it could easily snap in a sharp wind.  The seed pod that has remarkable geometry and reminds me of a salt shaker.  The beauty of this flower takes my breath away, and helps me remember...
  • The Dee family created the American candy company that produces Smarties.  Founder Edward Dee, who used to occasionally go in to work until age 95 (he has since passed), left the company to his three granddaughters who currently run the candy empire.  With family-friendly working hours, each smarties workers are gifted 30lb of candy each Halloween to share the sweet goodness.  This "Dee's" gossamer is a nod to women-run empires, with heart, sharp minds and a sweet disposition.
  • Out of stock
    This hat is THE accessory piece to an outfit or a special outing.  The felt hat has delicious texture as the wool has fused to and rippled the black silk velour during the felting process.  It reminds me of textiles made for Royalty that sit in museums or castles in Europe.  The bow is made with stiff pineapple silk; oversized and flipped upside down as if you're about to get swept off your feet! We play dress up as youngsters.  Somewhere along the line many of us lose that ability to just let go and express ourselves with fashion and play.  This hat invites you back to a simpler time where play was fun and the bigger the bow, the better!
  • A midnight blue denim inspired cocktail hat, or demi-chapeau, this number can be worn with a sweater, jean jacket, coat or gown.  It is worn cocked to the side, sweeping across your forehead.  Subtle buttery yellow, blushing pink and subtle orange flowers are speckled on a denim silk, to give this hat a casual, relaxed look.  Comfortable to wear, the elastic tucks into your hair, whether it is worn down or in an upsweep.  This sweet topper will make you the talk of the town. Fashion has two purposes: comfort and love.  Beauty comes when fashion succeeds."  - Coco Chanel.
  • While thrift shopping for silks, I OFTEN find amazing fashion.  This prized t-shirt is a fabulous find - featuring hats, French, and a triple butt-ruffle!!!  When I made this hat, I knew it was destined for the woman who would love a playful top like this. Whether you are sweet, classy, flirty, or simply graceful, this French-inspired beret worn at an angle can be anything you want it to be.  You just need to bring your personality.
  • Francoise

    $230.00
    Fun, flirty, flowers!  This hat style is from the 1960's but styled in vintage 1940's fashion.  This bright turquoise hat is shaped on an asymmetrical block and worn on the side of the head, held in place with an elastic.  It is a piece which can be dressed up or down, depending on your occasion.  From a wedding, to the races, to a night out with friends.  A great piece to add to your wardrobe!
  • Out of stock
    This fedora is made from an upcycled animal print dress featuring flecks of gold, deep greens and grays.  It immediately made me think of the woods, somewhere I like to escape to in all seasons, be it on snowshoes or with rubber boots (our woods are pretty muddy all year).  Casual and soft, this fedora is very comfortable to wear and warm on your head!  Nature is also reflected in the merino wool with deep charcoal gray and mustard highlights.  Such a rugged yet delicate beauty. P.S.  Ozzy was with us on our shoot.  He's completely deaf and was hoooooooowling with excitement to be outside in the woods.  For that last photograph, of course I joined him.  I believe I was as excited as he was.  :)
  • Genevieve

    $225.00
    This hat is made for a woman that appreciates classic style, clean lines, and muted colors.  Its fedora styling brings to mind some of the famous female spies and intelligence workers of the first and second world wars such as Edith Cavell and Genevieve Feinstein.  This hat pairs stylishly with a timeless trench, but can be modernized with a basic sweater, jeans, and a simple handbag.  Whether you are undercover or out for coffee, this hat provides you warmth, substance, and style.
  • This is a perfect gossamer hat to get if you're wanting something comforting on fall days, a hat you can dress up for an event, or keep casual for weekday wear.  Black and royal blue silk mixed with royal blue wool and a fun lining silk, this hat is the one you'll reach for when you just need a hat to be there for you, without much thought or consideration. In this "post-covid" life things seem overwhelming at times both in complexity or busy-ness, and maybe just slowing down and simplifying is the way through it.  KISS principle (keep is simple sweetie) seems juuuuust about right.
  • Out of stock
    This year the shift from summer to Autumn happened overnight.  27C degrees dropping to 14C for a daytime high, it is as if Mother Nature hit a switch and nature's fall transformation was underway.  Evenings became cool and dark while morning darkness lingered.  Leaves began to turn almost instantly.  People started reaching for their sweaters and cozy clothes, turning their fans and air conditioning off...  This hat is what you need to reach for, to help ease the transition into autumn and winter.  It reminds me of cold dark nights and a warm fire, meeting friends at a pub or cozy meeting place.  Despite being a depiction of Van Gogh's Apricot blossoms (read springtime), the color is reminiscent of the long sunsets in the fall that glow with deep blue colors, as the darkness filters in.
  • This hat is named for the woman we all know, the one who is holding her world together.  Children, events, spouses, small businesses, parents and life's changes; there are so many dynamics to keep a family together and functioning.  With humor, humility and a lot of grit, this one goes out to that friend who manages to keep things balanced with grace, a wry smile...and a touch of madness.
  • Out of stock
    Striking but subtle in her tawny tones, light pink beads, paisley design and silk headband, Madge gossamer has got you covered.  All she asks in return is that you wear her to the market, on your commute, into the woods, or to a dinner out.  She's game to go wherever you take her.  She loves comforting you on those days your hair is being unruly, couching your locks in her ample beret-style room.  She promises not to tug at you, instead warming you (but providing enough air flow so that you don't overheat) and with her silky insides, she promises to be gentle.  She even has room for glasses and won't give you a headache in return.  See, Madge is the friend you didn't know you needed.  :)  For a large-headed woman, meet your new BFF.
  • This hat is best described by a song by Tenille Townes - wanting to reclaim her fierce, carefree self, indulging in the beauty and pace of the smaller moments in life. "The girl who didn't care": "I wanna worry a little less, love a little more Barefoot in a dress, dancing on the floor Like I did, back when, when I was younger Making up the songs, playing in my head Didn't matter what anybody said Didn't need to be like all the others Giant dreams and wild hair Yeah, I know she's still in there somewhere The girl who didn't care"
  • Officially introducing my model Lily.  She has modeled for me for years and I am forever grateful for her willingness to continue to sit for shoots as she grows up. I do realize Tigers have stripes and not spots, but calling this gossamer "Leopard Lily" sounds silly.  While the spotted flower comes in many colorful shades, the yellow lily symbolizes thankfulness and the desire for enjoyment.  I feel like that is perfect considering it is spring 2022 and the world opening up once again.  Being grateful for what the past two years has done for us and a desire to get out there once again and live a little more freely.  This Gossamer is indeed playful and ready for a vacation or a party or two!
  • Out of stock
    Marie is a gossamer hat that exudes an understated elegance.  Subtle earth tones with the softest of flower petals framing your face, this hat features a charcoal gray beaded swath that carries the movement of the pattern into the folds of the hat.  Picture a cool spring day once the apple blossoms are out, a little wet, the blossoms floppy and still velvety in your fingers.  A perfect day to wear such a stunning creation.
  • Out of stock
    This 1920's inspired cloche is a modern take on an old design.  Like you're the technicolor girl dropped back in a vintage black and white film.  This hat is VIBRANT.  Beautiful turquoise wool and silk with hazel and turquoise highlights in the applique across the bottom of the crown.  Beads and sequins dot across the fabric.  The crown is deep, meaning you can pull it down to channel the coquette 20's look, or leave it a bit higher, depending on taste (or weather conditions).  
  • Out of stock
    I made this gossamer hat while live streaming Megan and Harry's wedding.  I had just picked up the most delightful raspberry gingham scarft for a lining, and this hat came together perfectly.  Just as the day seemed to pass, the silks and merino wool blended so beautifully together, it was indeed a magical day!  Reminiscent of springtime peonies and azalea flowers, this hat will raise your spirits and turn heads like the glorious flowers do each spring on their return...
  • Out of stock
    Reports have it that F. Scott Fitzgerald's character Daisy, in the Great Gatsby, was modeled after Genevra King.  It is written that Ginerva "remained for Fitzgerald an archetype for the alluring, independent and upper class woman, ultimately unattainable by someone of a modest social background like himself".  I see Daisy wearing this cloche in this modern day, highlighting her casual classic beauty, drawing draw the eye and admiration of passers-by...
  • Meredith

    $220.00
    Rich jewel-tones swirl horizontally across this hat, from the crimped crown to the wide and asymmetrical brim.   This hat is a head-turner in style and color and will match nearly everything in your wardrobe!  Casual or dressy, it can accompany you on a walk in the park, a shop at the farmer's market, or a night out on the town.
  • Color outside the lines... This cocktail hat is for the edgy girl who pushes boundaries and dares to be a little different.
  • Carmen

    $210.00
    The resume of the woman who wears this hat reads as follows: Uniform is the classic black trench. Carries a briefcase to work, while wearing stilettos. Can disarm you verbally in mediation or court. This hat pairs perfectly with a classic black coat, red lips, and a fierce personality. Women who love espresso need apply.
  • This gossamer hat is light and very comfortable to wear. It can be the hat you wear to the market or on a brisk hike in the hills. It is unlike most hats and will be noticed, not only for it’s beautiful print and colors, but for its sculpted, casual design. It is a hat that will set you apart from others. As Robin Williams once said:  “You’re only given a little spark of madness.  You mustn’t lose it.”
  • In summer I can't help but be inspired by nature, in this specific case by the raspberries that grow wild in our yard.  Their geometry, the way they ripen and smell, and of course their magical taste.  I love strolling around the property, grabbing handfuls of the fruit and enjoying the warmth and beauty of the season.  This Gossamer hat has that summertime ease and simplicity to it.  Not too showy but on closer inspection has a fine beaded detail and a sweets-inspired band.  This hat can remind you of summertime and its bounty the whole year through.  Perfect for the fall and spring seasons, good under a hood in the winter.
  • Out of stock
    This summer I've been watching my social media feed, and the escapes my friends have made from their regular lives to bodies of water.  There is peace, mental space and room to breathe when one finds oneself in or beside a large body of water.  It is as if the deep colors of the water mixed with the rhythm of the waves lulls you to another part of your brain where you can escape the business of your life... This hat and its relaxed style and deep marine colours evokes that same feeling.  Light and comfortable, it can "take you away" when you are not close to your body of water, evoking the same tranquility as you feel when on holiday... "Why do we love the sea?  It is because it has some potent power to make us think things we like to think".  - Robert Henri
  • Jenna

    $190.00
    There are all kinds of quotes about Leopard print.  Seemingly you're either a fan, or not.  Where Jenna may surprise you is the variety of her undertones (tan, burnt orange, brown) thus the amount of colors and outfits she will match!  Leopard print is something that acts as a staple in a wardrobe, a kind of neutral... This hat will roll up into a purse, fend off bad weather (snow, sleet, fog, some rain) keeping you warm and cozy as you go about your life this autumn, winter and fall.  Adding a little zing to a wardrobe, she's ready for you...are you ready for her?
  • Out of stock
    "The sky is an infinite movie to me.  I never get tired of looking at what's happening up there."  - KD Lang. With sky blue wool and many different silk and textures, this kitchen sink felt hat has it all.  Colorful, playful, elegant and fun, this hat will be great to go to the market or lie in a snowbank on a sunny day, watching the clouds.

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