Wearable Pieces of Magic at Mansion House

Time was when hats were de riguer in the City.  Sadly, this is no longer the case, although anyone walking near St. Paul’s on 4 March would have turned their heads to witness many people in an array of stylish hats heading towards Mansion House.

The reason?  The second luncheon hosted by the City Consorts and the Worshipful Company of Feltmakers to showcase some of the finest millinery in the land.

Within the Salon and Drawing Room of Mansion House, we were indulged in viewing and purchasing from an overwhelming selection of exquisite hats which were artfully presented by the talented milliners who had created them.

We were then ushered into the splendid Egyptian Room where a delightful spring-themed lunch  awaited us.  Grace was written and delivered by Elspeth Hughes-Penney, Consort of Alderman & Sheriff Robert:

Heavenly Father, bless this day
For Feltmakers’ hands that shape and pray.
For food we share, for friends so near,
We give our thanks with hearts sincere
Amen.

Following the toasts, Master Feltmaker Simon Millar delivered a passionate speech about the British hatting trade and its fine heritage before thanking Immediate PM Bedford for initiating this event, Emma Whitaker and Alex Hayward for their skill in making this second year possible, the milliners for their artistry and the models for displaying the hats so elegantly.  The Master then declared the raffle in aid of Brain Tumour Research, saying: “A hat is not just for Ascot, it’s for life”.

The hat show began after lunch, compered once again by IPM Jeremy Bedford and milliner Rachel Trevor-Morgan, whose knowledgeable and engaging commentary provided an insight into the intricacies of designing and creating these unique items of beauty.  Gasps of delight emanated from the guests as the elegant models glided effortlessly among the tables.  There was also much mirth when Kevin Bradford, Shrieval Consort of Sheriff-Elect Keith Bottomley, occasionally appeared on the arm of a model to pose and pout.     

We had the opportunity to hear about the career of Victoria Grant and her panoply of A-lister clients – icons of rock, pop and Hollywood.  Her career began as a stylist and a chance encounter on a Pearly Kings & Queens photoshoot.  A raid of her grandmother’s collection of pearl buttons led to an epiphany and the launch of her stellar career as a milliner.  Victoria noted that she does what she loves, “if you feel it, other people will enjoy it”.

A special mention to Eda Rose, probably the most senior designing milliner present. She was the first ever lady hatter to be made Master Feltmaker in 2011 and created hats for Dame Fiona Woolf when she Lord Mayor in 2013, including her official bespoke tricorne.  Eda has recently received the honour of professional membership of the Vintage Fashion Guild of America.

As this fairytale afternoon drew to a close, our tremendously talented milliners were graciously thanked: Rachel Trevor-Morgan, Edwina Ibbotson, Alex Hayward, Victoria Grant, Lock & Co. Hatters, Victoria Carson, Fleur Curtis, Kat Barclay, Eda Rose-Lawson, Noel Stewart, Yvette Jelfs, Judy Bentinck, Mary Spiteri and Vanessa Brett, along with the organisers, make-up artists, Suzannah London couture, models and “extras”! We look forward with great anticipation to next year’s event!

Rebecca Nelson