I have always been a hat loving gal. My first (and only) trip to Paris was when I was 21 years old. I treated myself to a beautifully constructed straw hat that I still wear whenever the opportunity strikes, which is very rare in California.  It was a wonderful souvenir from the City of Lights. But one of my craziest hats is a large-brimmed hat adorned with oversized black feathers all around. It was custom made by Ruth Garland-Dewson, a well-known milliner formerly in San Francisco (often referred to as the milliner to the stars) for a formal Christmas Party Mr. B and I attended many years ago. Unfortunately, Ruth passed away several years ago and her small shop on Fillmore Street has since closed but her legend lives on!

I adore hats but given that I live in Southern California I don’t have the need to wear one often since the dress code here seems to get more casual by the minute. But you don’t necessarily have to be a hat wearing person to appreciate their construction, style and design. In fact, this picture from Victoria Magazine shows us that a hat collection can be a funky, whimsical decorative element when put on display in mass. In such a large grouping they become artwork for your walls.

“Luxurious, flirty and at times a bit sexy.  We’re out to prove a great hat can change your day.”  – Plaza Suite Hats

Wearing a hat versus not wearing a hat is the difference between looking adequate and looking your best.  –Martha Sliter