Renowned milliner Christine Moore created her most expensive hat this year, taking over 40 hours to make. The hat, priced at $5000, had intricately crafted individual petals that took 30 hours to create, and about 10 hours to assemble. Moore’s average hat price is around $1100, making this particular piece one of her most luxurious designs. In addition to this creation, Moore designed the hat worn by Wynonna Judd, a performer at the Derby’s National Anthem, as well as other hats that have made their way to Britain’s prestigious Royal Ascot.
Having learned to create swirled top hats with Rodney Gordon, Moore has become known for her iconic designs. She mentions that very few milliners are able to produce the traditional swirled top hats, a skill she obtained through her collaboration with Gordon. One of her signature designs, the swirled top hat, was worn by Wynonna Judd at the Derby, showcasing Moore’s unique and intricate craftsmanship. This attention to detail and distinctive design aesthetic has helped her establish a strong presence in the millinery world.
The Derby is a particularly busy time for Moore, with her millinery going through approximately 700 yards of silk to create hats for the event. Similar to White’s design, Moore’s hats can include 50 or more petal pieces that are meticulously hand-sewn together. Through her business established in 1994, Moore has sewn over 30,000 labels into her hats, further showcasing the extensive work and dedication put into each piece. In an effort to minimize waste, Moore ensures that every scrap of fabric sourced for her designs is utilized, allowing her hats to be worn and passed down through generations.
Moore’s dedication to her craft and attention to detail have not gone unnoticed, with her hats being sought after for prestigious events like the Derby and Royal Ascot. Her ability to create intricate and luxurious designs, such as the $5000 hat this year, has solidified her reputation as a top milliner in the industry. With a focus on traditional techniques and unique design elements, Moore continues to push the boundaries of hat making and create pieces that are both timeless and elegant. Through her work, she has made a significant impact on the world of millinery and has established herself as a leading figure in the field.
