Felicity
Northeast

Inspired by birds’ flight patterns and paths, shifting and changing with respect to the currents. This piece reflects Spring; the time of migration and the Flemington racecourse precinct the home to more than eighty bird species. The direction of feathers mimic the V flight formations slicing the air. The oval layers of braid echo circular paths like a falcon, perhaps working from a race stand rooftop, deterring seagulls. I’ve chosen vintage braid because it has been a sustainable defining feature throughout my collections — reflecting my love of incorporating a vintage material into a contemporise design. Using over 20 metres of 2 cm wide vintage braid, wired and hand sewn, this design moves beyond the traditional circular form. Raised arches, overlapping layers, and openings on both the top and underside reveal different views from every angle. The structure infuses texture, depth, and movement—inviting light and shadows to play across every curve. To further echo bird flight, I’ve hand dyed turkey feathers in soft blush to pink hues —dye, cut, sliced, shaped, and varnished — adding lightness, movement, and a whisper of wings caught in flight. The platter style hat is set above a raised button beret which was blocked and wrapped with the vintage braid. I hope you enjoy this millinery piece and its story.