Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones

Today I had the joy of going to the V & A's brand new exhibition: Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones. and a joy it was, from the moment I entered the exhibition, it had the allure of inspiration, set in a darkly lit 'magical Baroque garden' (as the leaflet so gorgeously puts). There is a definite sense of another world in this exhibition. Certainly for me, I was transported into another realm, and this one was full of hats!

Not being much of a hat-wearer myself, I was, needless to say, intrigued by what this exhibition would have in store (other than hats of course). However, I was pleasantly surprised and now have a new found respect for hats and the statement that they can bring to an outfit.

The exhibition is constructed in such a way that you feel like each time you find a piece of the exhibit, you have another glorious section of a secret garden. The exhibition itself, takes you on a tour of discovery from the inspiration for a particular hat, the creation, the milliner's salon as well as the client involved in the millinery process.

Not only this, but there was many a famous hat featuring in this exhibition. Audrey Hepburn's bonnet in 'My Fair Lady' (1938) by Cecil Beaton was exhibited as well as Sarah Jessica Parker's head decoration (this is more than just a hat darling) which featured at the 'Sex and the City' premiere in London last year which was by Philip Treacey.

This exhibition is a definite must-see whether you are a current hat fantatic or not. The exhibition is showing 24th February-31st May at only £5 for adults, so get to the V&A asap!

V & A Museum

Source Image: Huffington Post, V & A