A Q+A with Katherine
May saw the launch of the SS22 Katherine Elizabeth Millinery collection and, already, we’ve had some incredible feedback. This year’s motivation comes from freedom and get-togethers and every piece has been designed to emulate those better days. Here, we speak to Katherine to find out a little more about her latest designs.
What was the main inspiration behind your new collection?
I, like many others, was itching to get back out into the world after years of lockdown and restrictions. It got me thinking about what it was I missed so much - freedom, being outside, witnessing nature, and the colours and experiences we can find in our very own garden. I started to think about how these things could be construed in hats and headpieces, and the rest they say is history…
When do you start thinking about a new collection?
Truthfully, about 10 months in advance. So, usually, I’ll start thinking about a new collection in August - yep, I’ve already got ideas for the next! With ideas born around then, I try to get the collection ready to show in October for the following summer but I don’t reveal it to the public until the following spring.
Likewise, for winter collections, ideas usually come to me over the festive season, with the aim of it being ready by March. The public won’t get to see my creations until October though.
What is your process for designing and creating a new piece?
Every milliner will have their own processes and no one way is right or wrong. For me, I start off by thinking about an overarching theme that I want to portray. Then, I’ll search for trends and materials that are popular as well as what’s forecasted to be popular in the future. Of course, I have my own opinions on what’s going to be a hit over the next few years!
With this in mind, I start sketching designs, ordering fabrics and mocking up ideas. Some ideas could make it into the final line up and others are left at the beginning. It probably won’t surprise you that this is the part that takes the longest and can also be the most stressful. However, I’ve realised that I thrive under pressure and actually enjoy it. Everything comes together in the end.
Do you have a favourite item in this collection?
I honestly love every single one of the hats - but I guess I should say that! There’s pieces for events, family celebrations and garden parties that go into the early hours. I just love the bright colours, feather accessories, biot strips and even the lapis stone that’s been included.
If I had to pick though, I’d say my favourite is probably Pink Bloom. It’s feminine, romantic and made for summer. I also love Theros. It’s black, imposing and will turn heads for all the right reasons.
Did you come up against any challenges this time around?
The biggest challenge was probably time. This year has just been so busy, especially with everything that’s happened and with everything going on right now. More people are attending events and weddings are go, go, go - which means hats are in great demand.
It was really hard to find the right people to bring in to help. Of course, I did manage it though and I have a fantastic team behind me. I love the fact that everyone is excited about events again, as well as getting out and socialising.
Where do you see the millinery world going?
I think it’s such an exciting time for milliners and our industry. It’s growing at such a speed too, and I think this is going to continue. People seem to want to learn more about it, and even my free millinery challenges are getting more attendees every time they happen.
As well as this, I think more people - and younger people - are wearing hats, more shops are selling them and The Royals really help to promote the hat industry. I’m very excited about the future of hat making.
