A Few Helpful Notes
The Experience
A calm and considered process, designed to help you find a piece you'll wear with confidence.
Should I book a consultation?
Consultations are available as needed and can take place either in person or via email, depending on the piece and the nature of your enquiry.
Many clients begin by email, which often provides a gentle starting point before arranging a face-to-face consultation if needed.
What happens during a consultation?
Consultations are relaxed and collaborative.
We’ll look at your outfit, discuss the occasion and explore different shapes and styles together - whether you’re selecting a racewear hat, special occasion headpiece or something more individual. Often, the right piece becomes clear quite naturally as we explore options together.
If you're unable to attend in Melbourne, we're always happy to explore options via email or an online consultation.
What should I bring to my consultation?
If possible, bring your outfit. If you can't, images of it and a colour reference are good substitutes.
This helps us consider colour, balance and proportion, ensuring your headpiece or hat feels complementary to your outfit and exactly right for you.
I've never worn a hat before. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Many of our clients are new to wearing hats or headpieces.
The consultation process is gentle and guided, and the right piece often feels surprisingly natural - even transformative.
If you’re unsure where to begin, you might find it helpful to read Your First Millinery Experience in The Finishing Touch.
Finding Your Piece
A creative experience, guiding you towards a piece that feels right for you and the occasion.
Do you make custom pieces?
Yes - many pieces are created to colour match a client's outfit exactly.
As a Melbourne milliner, specialising in colour matching, a piece is developed in collaboration with you, responding to your outfit, the occasion and, most importantly, how you want to feel wearing it.
How do I choose the right piece for me?
Choosing the right piece is less about rules and more about balance.
We consider your outfit, proportions, the occasion and your personal sense of style - whether that’s for racewear, a wedding or a special event. We can gently guide you through this during a consultation so you find a piece that feels right for you.
You might find it helpful to read - Why the Right Hat Changes Everything - from The Finishing Touch.
How long does it take to make a piece?
Each piece is made by hand using traditional millinery techniques, so timing can vary depending on complexity and materials.
As a guide, we recommend allowing several weeks, particularly in the lead up to the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival and peak event seasons.
Can your pieces be adjusted or customised?
In many cases, some adjustments can be made.
Whether it’s changing a trim or selecting a bespoke colour, we are always happy to discuss what’s possible.
Practical Details
A few simple details to guide through the process with ease.
Do you have ready to wear pieces?
Yes - a curated selection of ready to wear hats and headpieces is available on the website. Each piece is handcrafted in Melbourne and accredited as Australian Made.
These pieces can be purchased as they are, or sometimes lightly adjusted if needed.
Do you ship within Australia and internationally?
Yes, pieces can be shipped throughout Australia and internationally. Each piece is carefully packaged to ensure it arrives in perfect condition.
We regularly send headpieces and hats to clients beyond Melbourne, both interstate and overseas.
What if I change my mind?
As each piece is individually made we encourage considered choices before purchasing.
Commissioned pieces, custom-made pieces and pieces altered or created especially for you cannot usually be returned or exchanged for change of mind.
For ready-to-wear pieces purchased online, if something is not quite right, please get in touch as soon as possible after receiving your order. While we do not offer automatic change-of-mind refunds, we are happy to discuss whether an exchange or another suitable option may be possible.
This does not affect your rights under Australian Consumer Law. If an item is faulty, damaged or not as described, please contact us so we can assist.
If you have any concerns prior to purchasing, we’re always happy to talk things through and help you choose with confidence.
How do I care for my piece?
Millinery is delicate by nature.
We’ll guide you on how to store and care for your hat or headpiece so you can continue to enjoy wearing across many occasions.
If you’re unsure where to begin, you’re always welcome to get in touch - we’re happy to guide you.