Creating a Hat for the Lillian Frank Millinery Award - 2025: A Behind-the-Scenes Journey

There is something uniquely magical about spring racing season in Melbourne. The energy, the colour, and for me the most anticipated moment is when fashion and creativity take centre stage. For milliners, the highlight is unquestionably the Lillian Frank AM MBE Millinery Award, a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the timeless art of hat-making. Preparing a piece for this prestigious competition is both an honour and a joy, and one that begins long before the race day crowds arrive at Flemington.

Inspiration: Where Every Millinery Piece Begins

Each design starts with a spark: a silhouette glimpsed in nature, the elegance of fabric movement, or the thrill of working with a new material. For this year’s award entry, the focus was on creating something that not only commands attention from every angle but also embodies the sophistication, elegance and spirit of spring racing fashion.

Choosing the right colour palette, carefully balancing proportion, and sketching multiple concepts are all part of the process. In a competition where craftsmanship is closely examined, every detail must be deliberate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A picture of the scribbles I made trying to decide on my final design. 

Craftsmanship: The Heart of Millinery

There is a deep, enduring love that comes from working with your hands. Creating a hat for the Lillian Frank Award heightens that feeling. The process slows down, decisions become more intentional, and materials are selected with purpose, not just beauty. The result is a piece that feels alive, expressive, and ready to take its place amongst the finest millinery in the country.

Race Day Anticipation and the Honour of Attending

Walking into Flemington on the day of the Millinery Award presentation is a moment every milliner treasures. The energy amongst entrants is warm and electric. Designers recognising each other's work, celebrating creativity, and sharing the collective excitement that only comes from months of dedication culminating in one unforgettable day. To be part of the Melbourne Cup Carnival in this way is a privilege, and each year brings renewed inspiration for future designs.

A Love of Creating Hats That Goes Beyond Competition

While the award entry represents one special creation, the passion that fuels it is the same passion behind every piece crafted for clients. Whether it is a sculptural headpiece for Oaks Day, a classic brimmed hat for a spring wedding, or a custom design made to complement a beautiful race day outfit, the joy lies in bringing someone's vision to life.

Every piece in the collection carries that same care and attention to detail. For many customers, a hat is the finishing touch that transforms an outfit into an unforgettable look, and it is always a privilege to create something that helps them feel confident and beautiful.

Explore the Collection

For those preparing for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, special occasions, or their own fashion moments, the current range of hats, headbands, and custom millinery pieces offers something for every style. Each design is thoughtfully handcrafted to ensure the perfect balance of elegance, comfort, and individuality.

If you are looking for a piece that feels made just for you, custom designs are also available. Together we can create something memorable—whether you are entering Fashions on the Field, attending a spring wedding, or celebrating a special event.