the Mad Duchess
British Millinery in Austin, Texas
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The Mad Diary

A milliner, hat designer and maker's blog based in Austin, Texas. Stories about all things hat making, blocking, materials, and the day-to-day life of a local artisan.

My Vintage Block Gets A Name

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Remember when I recently discussed about a box of UFO blocked hats waiting for completion? I had this chartreuse piece beckoning me before the sweltering Summer hits. I know in other parts of the country, there’s snow and record cold. But it is quite the opposite here in Austin. This “Elaine” Beret is from my replicated vintage block. I needed to make another studio sample since I sold the first purple piece before I had a chance to give it an official name or post it on my website. The chartreuse Elaine definitely is vintage, and the original purple is simple and modern. I might need to make another one just for the contrast, but I think a black might be the next color. The new Elaine is embellished with vintage flowers, and tan veiling. The neutral tones calms the bright chartreuse without losing its Spring appeal. It’s also lined with a beautiful cotton, silk voile fabric. The bulkier lining made Elaine larger, so it fits best on a 22.5-23 inch head. It’s available on my ETSY shop but I am also accepting custom requests for Elaine with other color combinations.

Wedding pieces are on my work bench right now. I only managed to create a couple of simple pieces last year, both of which I am putting up on ETSY soon for my Madness sample sale. I am adding about one to two hats a week for sale. The new wedding collection should be filled with lux fabrics and embellishments. I am keeping with my vintage yet modern themes. Feathers might even be in its future.

There’s an open studio event in the works, but lots of “ifs” there because I need more prep time. Ideas are abundant, and I even have a production schedule this year—but you know how that gets thrown out the window with custom orders and other deadlines. Not to mention, London Hat Week is just around the corner. I am excited to see all my new friends I made last year, and looking forward to meeting more. I was a bit shy last year about going to some of the organized events. No regrets this year though! Milliners are really a fun bunch of people.

MJR