A head for hats

Aug 25 2009 by Liz Lamb, The Journal

IT never stops, I’m so busy,” says flamboyant hatter Louis Mariette who is working in his London atelier. It’s hardly surprising.

In between designing lavish couture creations for the rich and famous and having his work photographed for the world’s top fashion magazines, Louis has also just finished a stint as a judge on the popular television programme Britain’s Next Top Model.

“It was so wonderful working with Lisa Snowdon and the other two judges,” he beams.

“It was just a marvellous experience. There were 20 girls on the show all wanting to win and they had such wonderful backgrounds and stories. Like anything in life though there can only be one number one.

“I have to say a lot of the girls were very good. It was hard to choose. At first I was tough but as you get to know the girls, you really want them to do well but it’s very difficult to choose one from another.”

Louis is a world-renowned milliner and creator of the world’s most expensive hat.

His work has featured in glossy magazines such as Vogue, Hello and Tatler and celebrities who have worn his hats and headpieces include Jerry Hall, Kate Moss, Sophie Dahl, Paris Hilton, Pink and Joan Collins.

The hatter designs show-stopping couture and bespoke designs for an exclusive client list who may need eye-catching headwear for events such as the Cartier Polo day, Ascot, the Dubai World Cup, the Oscars and Bafta.

Travelling to every corner of the globe, the milliner sources trimmings such as hand-embroidered fabrics, antique embellishments, porcupine quills, feathers and semi-precious stones that can be used in his designs.