Hats Off!

imageAs a femme with a particularly small skull, I’ve rarely been able to find a chapeau that fits… aside from a baseball cap at Baby Gap. Most designer brands are either too big or too expensive, like Proenza Schouler’s $3,400 beaded cloche (as if anyone with a head on their shoulders would shell out that kind of cash!). Thankfully, a few years back, I met Anne De Pasquale, a master milliner who’s touted for her ultra fashionable and affordable, custom-made toppers. Now I’m now the proud owner of multiple, “head-turning” menswear-inspired fedoras – the must-have accessory of the season. Anne’s hats are so gorge, you’ll even want to wear ’em on good hair days.

Although trained in theatrical millinery, Anne’s mission has always been to design wearable hats for real people, not just the stage. Known for taking the ordinary and turning it into something extraordinary, Ms. De Pasquale incorporates shimmery sequins, vintage jewelry, satin ribbon, feathers and even paint in her pieces. Her one-of-a-kind couture creations are ideal for confident, adventurous femmes who aren’t afraid to stand out from the crowd. As a matter of fact, J. Lo was so impressed with Anne’s talents, she commissioned her to design an exclusive wide-brimmed hat line for her Fall ’05 Sweetface runway show in New York.

With a resurgence of hats shown on the Fall ’07 and Spring ’08 international runways, now’s the time to get a head start on the trend. And thanks to Anne’s incredible range of eye-popping colors, shapes and patterns, there’s a suitable chapeau for everyone. Some of my personal favorites: a 20s-inspired burgundy velvet and wool cloche (a sharp look for short, chin-length hair), a classic French beret, a teal military number jazzed-up with a vintage gold chain and flashy pin-up girl button (I just had to buy this beauty for myself) and a to-die-for black felt fedora with intricate butterfly and heart-shaped cutouts along the brim. But my all-time fave is the “Film Noir” leopard print bell-shape style that’s wrapped with an actual piece of filmstrip (yes, I snagged this one too). Anne even hand paints a number of toppers with metallic gold, copper and silver leafing for a striking, antique-y effect. Plus, she’ll soon be adding high-end cocktail hats adorned with metal and ceramic details, perfect for formal affairs beyond the Kentucky Derby.

But don’t fret if you can’t find a style that doesn’t quite fit… ask Anne and she’ll gladly whip-up something sensational.

Exclusive deal just for YOU! Anne De Pasquale is offering Fashion Junkie subscribers a special 15% discount off any hats of your choice from Monday, October 15 through Monday, October 22, 2007. Call Anne at 646-424-9254 to book your private appointment. Happy shopping!

  • Anne De Pasquale
  • 646-424-9254 (by appointment only)
  • annedepasquale.com
  • $198-$600 ($600-$1200 for high-end hat line)
  • final sale on all items
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