Jane Taylor Millinery on VOGUE.COM

Hat Couture

BUYING one of Jane Taylor's spectacular hats is one way to neatly avoid any nasty "same hat" disasters; each one is created on a bespoke basis, using vintage trimmings and exquisite beading and embellishment.

"I would much prefer to create something unique for a client that suits their style and personality rather than make endless similar pieces that wouldn't work on everyone," Taylor told VOGUE.COM. "I really enjoy the process of meeting a new client, looking at their outfit, seeing how they move, seeing their character and collaborating with them to make a piece that suits them perfectly."

The most difficult part is choosing from the vast options, with styles ranging from wide-brimmed numbers - topped with exotic feathers - to neat mini berets draped with dramatic French veiling. Taylor hand dyes most of the fabrics and feathers herself, mixing dyes to create the tones that best suit each individual client.

"I think that most women love the process of having a hat made for them," Taylor said. "If someone feels good in a hat, it can transform the way that they look; their neck can look longer, their posture changes. The right hat can transform an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary."