Stalked: Davina Mulford, Milliner

The Ascot countdown has started and wedding invitations are rolling in for the summer so, I think it's that time again for a spot of Hat Stalking!!

My latest stalk is with the lovely emerging talent, Davina Mulford, a trained milliner. I caught up with her at her studio over a cappuccino, to find out about her new brand, her favourite hat moments and whats to come in the future.

Why did you decide to start your own hat company and what do you love about it?

After 13 years of working in the food industry, I was itching to go down a different route, and having always been into fashion, enrolled on a short course in Millinery at the London College of Fashion.  I loved every minute of the course, learning about the different hat making processes, and decided to explore millinery further, leaving my job and re-training as a milliner.  I worked as an intern for Gina Foster and Noel Stewart, and in 2015 decided to take the plunge and set up on my own.

It’s early days, but I am really enjoying the challenge as well as the endless possibilities of running my own business.  What I love the most is helping women to look fabulous - many customers who come to me have never worn a hat before, and after wearing one of mine, say that they are converted - now that’s mission accomplished in my view! 

 What are your inspirations for your designs?

I can take inspiration from a range of things, be it a favourite place, or colours and textures i may come across on my travels or in my day to day life.  I love to use Instagram as a mood board, capturing the different things that inspire me, and then exploring these further in my sketch book.  For my 2015 collection, inspiration came from my beloved Cornwall, from the rugged beauty of Bodmin Moor, to the sculptures of Barbara Hepworth at St Ives.

What's you're favourite 'hat' event?

For me, it has to be Royal Ascot - I am ashamed to say I go more for the fashion than the racing itself!  People really go to town with their outfits, and I love seeing the effort that some people go to.  

What are your plans for your next collection?

For 2016, I think it will be all about colour, and fun....Expect a rainbow of designs!

Where do you shop?

I’m a bit of a high street girl, so Topshop and Zara feature quite a lot in my wardrobe.  I’m also obsessed by charity shops - i’ve picked up some great designer and vintage bargains in some of the charity shops around Kensington and Notting Hill.  Oh, and I am also a sucker for TK Maxx….

Five items you can't live without?

My iPhone, for taking photos on the move

My watch - I hate being late

A pen -I write endless lists

My New Balance Trainers - I walk everywhere in London

And finally, my thimble - an essential piece of hat making kit!

www.davinamulford.com

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