Harrogate Gardens

Harrogate Gardens is a triptych celebration of my millinery voyage.

My foundational training in modern British millinery is deeply influenced by the prestigious Royal Ascot. The elegance and spectacle of the racegoers, with their elaborate hats and coordinated outfits, have profoundly shaped my design perspective. This influence is evident in my collection, which transitions from traditional Ascot attire to contemporary, fantastical headpieces.

Central to my work are the textiles and crafts inspired by my childhood in Los Angeles’ Chinatown, a vibrant district nestled between Little Tokyo and Olivera Street. Growing up in the 1970s, I was immersed in a blend of modernity and nostalgia, pushing artistic and fashion boundaries while staying connected to my cultural roots. Additionally, my proximity to Hollywood infused a layer of glamor into my life, enriching my creativity as a starry-eyed girl from Hong Kong.

My deep affection for Americana reflects how I've embraced my adopted home, integrating the best of East and West. As a Chinese American, I blend these influences into the third branch of my collection, which celebrates the fusion of these diverse heritages.

Harrogate Gardens will be on exhibition from May 25 - July 6 at the Old Bakery Museum, 1006 Congress Ave, Austin, TX. Admission is free.

Check out the museum FB page for more information and operating hours HERE.