Downton Abbey Returns

This Sunday sees the return of Downton Abbey the period drama on the BBC.

Anyone who is a fan will know the programme features 1920's fashions and many glorious hat designs. The bell cloche hat which is the cloche that sits very deep on the head is a popular shape on the programme, and I find it to be very popular in the shop too. I'm looking forward to seeing more stunning hat shapes as well  as the gripping story line.

I've put together a few pictures of my 1920's inspired hats, if only Lady Mary would pop in and buy a hat.!

Downton Abbey Inspired Hats

This week these two felt cloches have been made by my interns Fran and Josie. I started them off with steaming and stretching the top of the felt over a domed crown block then once it had taken shape I showed them how to steam, pinch and pleat the felt to create a cloche hat.Each hat has a very organic shape yet hugs the head with and upturned brim. They have caused quite a stir in the shop window this weekend and are on several ladies Christmas wish list. This week we shall make more in different colours. Great job ladies.

Felt Cloche Hat

The cloche is a hat almost everyone loves although the bell cloche like my felt above does not suit you if you have a round face. It is blocked all in one pushing the crown through a brim block in the upside down position. Strange I know but it eliminates the need to block the brim separately.
At the moment on British television we have the fabulous drama Downton Abbey which features so many wonderful hats. I have found a blog which features the programme.
 http://thedesignersmuse.blogspot.co.uk/2011/12/masterful-masterpiece-downton-abbey.html
Take a look at all the period costumes, interiors and of course head wear.