MY CUP RUNNETH OVER

We are free from the confines of lockdown, so who is ready to dress their best? I know I am. I entered my first all American beauty pageant at the tender age of four. This (and ballet, of course) was just a part of the landscape growing up in America at the time. Fast forward to 2021; I find myself judging at the annual Grand National Winter Fashion in the Field event at Riccarton Park. My fellow judges and I (a stunning group of fashionistas in their own right) were tasked with selecting the Best Dressed man and woman on the day, and in doing so, completing a full package of pageantry for me – a most fashionable benchmark! 

I am looking forward to stylishly slipping into the season of spring. And with the warmer weather comes lighter textiles, bold colours, and events that are a bit more fashion-friendly, such as Cup Week.

Some would have you believe that the races are about horse racing. We know it’s really about the hats, headpieces, fascinators – whatever you wish to call them. 

It’s a time-honoured tradition. Back in the day, it became a way for a lady to display her status and taste. In this day and age it is still a firm tradition in the racing scene and one that needs to be honoured. 

And so, for Couture this issue, we bring you a trio of the most skilled milliners, all based right here in Ōtautahi. Maria Wright Millinery offers us classical whimsy, Mad as a Hatter’s Suzi Copeland’s bespoke beauties are truly timeless, and Roz Willmott-Dalton’s meticulously structured creations are the best of the best when it comes to the true talent of millinery in Canterbury. So don your hat, and head off to the races!

 STYLE TIP:

Not keen to make a heavy head investment? All of our selected milliners offer ready-made hats to hire for any occasion.

Kia’s picks for this month’s Couture are here.