NOT everyone looking for a hat has an Ascot-sized budget.
The landmark racing event starts next week, kicking off a season of special occasions when eye-catching headwear may be called for.
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Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can look hot to trot without spending a fortune.
So pull off a hat-trick with these simple tips . . .
HATS FOR HIRE: It is hard to justify spending a packet on a hat that you might only wear a couple of times.
One answer may be to hire instead of buying new.
There are plenty of independent hat hire companies around the country.
John Lewis also has a small selection to choose from. Just search johnlewisfashionrental.com.
The £300 Kensington hat from Vixen Millinery is available on the John Lewis website for £39.33 for four days’ hire.
PRE-LOVED HEAD TURNERS: Barely worn bonnets and boaters will eventually be sold second hand.
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Have a look at sites such as thriftify. co.uk to find charity shop hats up for grabs online.
The site currently has a stunning Hat Box black and beige occasion hat, trimmed with feathers, for £18.
Alternatively, search “occasion hats” on eBay for a range of pre-loved designs to top off your outfit.
TITFER TAT: Clever hatter Susan Widlake, of millhousemillinery.co.uk, suggests finding a hat in a charity shop, then making it your own using low-cost trimmings.
She says: “If you’re adding flowers, go for one or three, and follow the same principle for the number of colours you use. Decorate with quills or feathers.
“Curve quills gently using curling irons and cut feathers into arrows or triangles.”
Susan’s top tip is to cut woven placemats from B&M, £4 for four, in strips to create a rigid twist to adorn your headgear.
Less can sometimes be more and you can use steam to loosen the glue on any accessories you want to take off an old hat.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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