The Art of Millinery
Millinery is a meticulous craft that blends traditional techniques, high-quality materials, and expert craftsmanship.
Each Raven piece is made with care and a commitment to creating headpieces that are well-made, bold, and inspiring.
Quality Materials
A solid foundation
Each piece starts with materials chosen for their quality, versatility and finish. A-grade sinamay, parasisal straw, felt and buckram are shaped and steamed to create the base.
Every detail is considered: embroidered fabrics, silks, faux leather and ethically sourced feathers alongside silk abaca, delicate veiling and structured crinoline. Preciosa and Swarovski crystals and luminous pearls for sparkle.
I also love pushing boundaries with unexpected materials like sequin film and balsa wood, crafting unique, handcrafted floral elements.
Sustainability is at the heart of my work, and I'm committed to sourcing all materials ethically from trusted suppliers, ensuring that beauty and responsibility go hand in hand.
millinery process
Craftsmanship
Blocking: Every hat begins on a wooden hat block. Materials are stretched, pinned and shaped by hand. Each block is chosen or custom-made for the design.
Steaming & Stiffening: Steam is key to shaping. It softens fibres to allow clean, sculptural forms while maintaining structure and strength throughout the piece. Straw and felt pieces are also stiffened at this stage to lock in the shape and give the finished hat its body.
Tailoring & Decoration: Once shaped, the piece is refined through hand tailoring — cutting, sewing and wiring to perfect proportion. Trims and embellishments are sculpted and hand-sewn for balance and movement.
New Techniques: Alongside traditional hat making, I continually explore new materials and techniques, pushing the boundaries of modern millinery.
The Fit: Elastics, wire headbands, Alice bands and discreet combs are selected to suit each design. Every piece feels lightweight, balanced and secure.