BEHIND THE DESIGN: RIVER ISLAND x EDWINA IBBOTSON
Have you seen our headturning collaboration with milliner Edwina Ibbotson? Known for her extraordinary couture creations – loved by celebrities, royalty and the fashion press – this collaboration is her first ever high street collection. To celebrate the launch, we sat down with Edwina to talk all things hats, design and dressing up.
How would you describe this collection?
It's a collection of stylish, wearable and eye-catching pieces, perfect for summer events. Each piece is designed with comfort in mind, so the wearer can fall in love with it while having fun.
Do you have a favourite piece and why?
That's a tricky question! If I had to choose, I’d say the Grace Pill Box as it’s classic, easy to wear and pairs well with most looks. It's flattering, stylish and undeniably cute.
Should we wear hats more often?
Yes, absolutely! It goes without saying: yes, yes, yes!
What do you like about dressing up?
The best thing about dressing up is that it usually means you’re going somewhere special and spending time with friends and loved ones. Adding a hat takes dressing up to an entirely new level!
What was it like collaborating with River Island on this collection?
I loved the whole experience! From the very first Zoom meeting, where I was introduced to three members of the team, to the launch of the collection, I worked with over 20 RI employees across various roles. Everyone was professional, helpful and genuinely enthusiastic about the collection. I had many face-to-face meetings, mostly with their in-house accessory design team. We began by sharing mood boards and colour suggestions and, from there, the collection gradually evolved into the final pieces.
How did you approach this collection?
I wanted to stay true to my own designs while keeping the RI customer in mind. It was incredibly important to me to create a fresh, contemporary and wearable capsule collection where each piece was made to a high standard and offered at a fair price point.
Who has been your favourite person to design for?
I wouldn’t want to mention any individual by name, but I do love designing with specific clients or occasions in mind – particularly those who appreciate the time and skill that goes into a custom-made designer hat. Nothing gives me more pleasure than creating a one-off piece that perfectly complements a client’s character and style.
What is the favourite thing about your work?
My favourite thing about my work is my team. Although small, we manage to create hats that bring a little sparkle to our clients’ eyes. I also love making new blocks [a carved wooden or metal mold used by milliners to shape, style, and size hats]. That’s my ultimate “hideaway” time at work; it’s so messy that I lock myself away where no one can disturb me!
What advice to you have for anyone wanting to get into millinery?
My advice would be to gain as much experience as possible, both by taking hat courses and training with a milliner as work experience. Learn from many different milliners and hatters. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, consider doing courses in business, PR and social media, because once you’re up and running, there will be little time to brush up on these skills. Practice sketching hats (not my strong point, I have to admit). Be brave, aim high and make the most of your contacts. And most importantly, always wear a hat. Self-promotion is gold!
