ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Over the years people often asked how I became interested in the Art of Millinery and the answer is Princess Diana inspired me. My first hats were a bridal line created using store-bought hat frames. Many years later I perfected my art and now create all the hat frames used for my covered designs along with those sold through the websites. ​I consider my hats millinery art because like any art piece; each starts as blank canvases of buckram, Fosshape, or other material. Those materials are hand-blocked using wooden hat blocks that are hand and machine sewn. All the embellishments are sewn not glued on(with the exception of small jewels which can only be glued.

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My millinery background consists of working in the studio of California designer Bob Mackie, speaking events about the art of millinery, and creating a line of hats for the Lupus Society fashion show. I also designed hats used to introduce a cosmetic makeup line for Isabel Sanford from the The Jeffersons TV comedy sitcom. In addition I been honored numerous times and worked with many other designers and organizations throughout the years. ​I proudly started the first Compton California African American Chapter of the Red Hat Society callled Red Hatitude Ladies of Distinction in 2003, as well as well as starting hat-making classes at one of the community centers.

 

I was honored to be a friend of and worked with Marilyn Bradford creator of the Forty Plus Modeling Troupe who passed April 16, 2019. RIP Marilyn.  After moving south I was chosen by Jet magazine as a designer of the month. I am a member of the Red Hat Society and for several years presented mini hat making workshops at their conventions and other venues throughout the United States. I stand behind my products and look forward to earning your business. If you have other questions or comments do not hesitate to contact me kaydurdenusa@aim.com or telephone 318-792-5757.  Thank you for visiting the site and have a great day. 

Sincerely

Kay Durden