Meet the Milliner: Rebecca Share

Tell us about your winning look. 
The winning headpiece from 2018 was designed by me and featured a hand-sculpted structure made from millinery wire and mesh. The highlight was a stunning, spiky explosion that created a spectacular brooch-like effect on the dress. The piece combined intricate craftsmanship with bold, sculptural elements, making it stand out and perfectly complement the overall look. 

How long did it take to create? 
The hat that earned the title in 2018 took about 60 hours to create. It was a design I sketched years earlier, something I had really wanted to bring to life. The whole process of making it was genuinely enjoyable, and everything came together beautifully in the end. When my model and I arrived at Flemington Racecourse, I noticed many people turning to look at her, and the media were snapping photos. At that moment, I thought either the hat was a bit too out there or I might have made something truly fabulous! 

How long have you been involved with racing or FOTF? 
My millinery career actually started when I was only 16 years old. My Year 11 fashion teacher took our class to the Bendigo Cup and entered us in the Fashions on the Field competition. We all created our outfits and hats in class, and I was delighted to win a prize. That experience ignited my passion for racing fashion and ultimately led me to pursue millinery. So, for me, it wasn’t just a spontaneous decision to enter Fashions on the Field – it marked the beginning of a lifelong passion and career. 

What went through your mind when you were announced the winner? 
When my name was announced in 2011, I was completely in shock and incredibly excited to have won. It was truly the best feeling I’ve ever had – such an amazing moment of validation for all the hard work and passion I poured into my craft. Hearing my name called was surreal, and it motivated me to keep pushing boundaries and developing as a milliner. The win wasn’t just a prize; it was a strong affirmation that I was on the right path. 

Is millinery your profession or a passion project? 
Millinery is my profession and my passion. I work full-time in the field, from designing bespoke pieces to running educational initiatives. I founded Hat Atelier, an online learning platform offering expert-led courses to students around the world, and I host Bali Millinery Retreats, immersive creative weeks that combine hands-on workshops with cultural experiences. I also lead international workshops – most recently in Dublin, Belfast and across the UK – and regularly judge Fashions on the Field competitions. It’s a joy to share my craft, connect with global communities, and help others develop their own creative voices. 

What makes Flemington’s FOTF competition stand out? 
Fashions on the Field at Flemington is unlike any other event. It is a spectacular celebration of colour, vibrancy, and glamour, attracting an international level of competition that truly sets it apart. What makes it so special for milliners is how fully supportive the event is of our craft, providing a prestigious platform through the Millinery Award where we can genuinely showcase our designs to an engaged and appreciative audience. Winning the Millinery Award at FOTF is incredibly prestigious and truly life-changing. It not only elevates a milliner’s profile within the fashion and millinery communities but also opens doors to remarkable professional opportunities. The event’s unique blend of high energy, creativity, and respect for millinery makes it an unparalleled experience and a career-defining moment for many of us in the industry. 

Has the win influenced your style? 
Since winning the competition, my millinery style has definitely evolved. The experience gave me the confidence and freedom to design exactly what I genuinely wanted, without restraint. This independence prompted me to experiment with new materials and techniques, which helped me develop a distinctive, recognisable signature style. I now share this style and my creative approach through my online courses, enabling others to learn from and be inspired by these innovations. The competition was a pivotal moment that not only boosted my confidence but also ignited significant creative growth in my work. 

Will you enter again? 
I hope to enter again, but it’s more about having too many ideas and trying to calm that down and select just one! I’m excited about the possibilities and will carefully consider which concept to focus on for my next look. 

What’s your advice for new entrants? 
One of the most common things my students mention is how recognisable my design style is, and they often ask me how I discovered my signature style. The key is experimentation – trying new materials, exploring different shapes and silhouettes. The more you experiment, the more unique and personal your style becomes. Having been a milliner for nearly 30 years, I’ve done plenty of experimenting along the way, which has helped me develop the distinctive style I share today. It’s a journey of creativity and discovery that I encourage all milliners to embrace.