Close-up portrait of milliner and researcher Sharon Morgan. She has her hair braided and is wearing a patterned purple and blue dress with black beads in her hair against a white brick wall

My love affair with hats began long before I realised it would become such an important part of my life.

When I was 14 years old, I made my very first hat. I transformed an velvet coat from the 1970s, what would now be considered vintage piece, into a beret. I wore that hat to church and was overwhelmed with compliments and questions it received. Before I knew it, someone asked if I could make one for them too.

That was my very first order.

Looking back, that moment planted the seed for what would become a lifelong passion, the joy of creating something and the confidence that comes from wearing something hand crafted. I have remained fascinated by materials, textures, colour, and making.

Today, my work is inspired by knowing that hats are more than fashion accessories. Whether I am designing a contemporary statement piece or reimagining traditional forms, I am guided by a love of making and a deep respect for the power of design - SM