A head for style

From her riverside studio in the heart of Kingston upon Thames, Bee Smith Millinery blends timeless elegance with head-turning design.

What inspires your designs?
I take a lot of my inspiration from vintage glamour of the 1940s/ 1950s. I’ve always been in love with the work of Schiaparelli, Balenciaga and classic Christian Dior.

Best bit about what you do?
No two days are the same, no two clients are the same. Most of my hats are bespoke, so I spend a lot of time with clients and feel involved in the excitement of their special occasions; weddings, christenings and Royal investitures. I spend most of my days being creative – and that’s the best bit.

What comes first, the hat or the outfit?
The outfit takes priority! Many clients bring in multiple outfit options and only after finalising their choice do we select the perfect hat to compliment it. Starting with the outfit makes coordination much smoother, ensuring the hat enhances rather than competes with the overall look.

“A good hat should be so comfortable, you forget you’re wearing it.”

What trends are you loving this season?
Post pandemic hats have got bigger and more outrageous, which is a lot of fun! Personally, I’m really enjoying the ever-evolving trend for headbands of all shapes and sizes.

Top tips when looking for an occasion hat?
If your outfit has bold patterns, opt for a classic, understated hat. If it’s simple, colour-blocked then an elaborate design will add extra drama. A good hat should be so comfortable, you forget you’re wearing it. Plan your hairstyle, use hairpins and adjust the fitting if needed. Pick a hat that makes you walk tall and feel confident.

Do hats really suit everyone?
Yes. You just have to find the right hat! So many of my clients begin an appointment saying ‘hats don’t suit me’, but I’ve never had a client I couldn’t find a hat to suit. All you need is a style you feel comfortable in, that helps you look and feel fabulous.

@beesmithhats
bee-smith.co.uk