Serena Lindeman Millinery

Pinterest- My favourite new toy

2012-02-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

Who has found this wonderful tool for collecting pictures? Me... well only recently. My relationship with it is very new, it feels new & it taps into my collector's spirit without messing up my room (plenty of other things for that job, trust me). My page is http://pinterest.com/serenalindeman/ . It's a work in progress and some boards get a lot more use than others. My favourite milliners is an interesting page http://pinterest.com/serenalindeman/my-favourite-milliners/. I have found some amazing shots for that board. The Ooh colour page is one of my favourites http://pinterest.com/serenalindeman/ooh-colour/ . I would love to know if you are in this club, especially if you are pinning millinery or inspiration for hats. Please leave a comment letting me know what your page is or even just letting me know what you think of Pinterest. Thanks for coming by, I look forward to hearing from you.

Launceston Cup hats- backstage at the parade.

2012-01-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

The Launceston Cup is upon us again. This would have to be one of the best daytime parties you can go to. Dressing up in your best and sporting your latest hat is one of life's great pleasures. I had the good fortune to visit Launceston on the weekend with my very good friends Christopher Horne (all round magnificent person and parade running person) & Kim Fletcher (milliner extrodinaire). We were guests of Sue Rees ( fabulous hostess & maker of happenings at the Launceston Country Club).

The who's who of Launceson were treated to the "Fashion Collectables" parade after drinks at the Tonik bar.... garments from Joseph Ribkoff (thank you Barbara & Lauren), Perri Cutten, Shirley Keon & others. Modelling by the gorgeous girls from Sue Rees' modelling school.

One thing I know now that I didn't before is that Launceston people know how to party, after the parade there was some wild dancing back in the Tonik bar.

To get your outfit together you can go to Sues of Invermay where Julie and her team will dress you from top to toe.

One of my new designs for Launceston Cup on one of our beautiful models.

Three beautiful girls bringing out the elegance of the millinery

I love this shot

A pair of red hats

Fabulous Neighbours- Lucky Melbourne

2012-01-13T00:01:00.000-08:00

If you know the Nicholas Building you will be aware that the tenant list can at times be unpredictable and occasionally delightful. Today I want to tell you about Harold and Maude, an establishment on Level 2 of the Nicholas Building. As for the name of the place; I am sure there are such people.. maybe on TV or in the imagination of Robyn Bunting, the main woman of the establishment.

I never tire of going there. Robyn and Andrew are the 2 people you are likely to meet when you go there & here is a glimpse of what they do.

Andrew's Victoriana- trust me this is a fragment of a much greater whole. His room is a work of art.

Robyn flocks things- this gnome is but one example, there are black pug dogs somewhere there as well.

I don't quite know where to start with this, a vitrine with cupie dolls (my Panama hats are in the background)

Queen Victoria at her severest.... (can't scare me)

Robyn & Andrew's take on Valentine's day will set your heart on fire if love has let you down I can assure you. Your voodoo heart will be delighted.

Harold & Maude- Level 2, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne, 3000 (right next to L'Ucello & not far from Buttonmania & Kimono House)

Tiffin at the Langham Hotel & bringing back the hat in 2012

2012-01-06T15:01:00.000-08:00

I was given a voucher for tiffin for 2 at the Langham Hotel in Southbank as a thank you for lending a hat for a display in the lead up to the Melbourne Cup. My guest was lovely Julie Ellis, a hat wearing creative of my acquaintance. Julie is wearing a jolly red cap with a hand made parisisal flower she made herself.

I'm not against eating between meals in principle, one or two of any of these little treasures would be just the trick... but all of it? I suspected we may be offered more than the morning or afternoon tea we would choose so I made our booking for 12.30 and privately we called it lunch.

The hats made all the difference to the occasion, apart from drawing some attention as we walked from my studio to the hotel they heightened the sense of occasion. Of course this is one of mine from the 2011 season.

Another one of Julie wearing her beautiful hand made flower.

And finally a sugar hit to finish off the post. (Most of these ended up wrapped in a paper napkin and shared with my Nicholas Building friends.)

Now if the world was a better place there would be more of these tiffin events. More women wearing hats without having to wait for the horses to gallop around the track. Women would wear hats to go out for lunch together, to meet for coffee and to shop. I would love to know that 2012 was the year where women (and men) just put on a hat for the hell of it, to tell the world "Today is a special occasion... whatever it is" and give the rest of the world a small reminder that glamour lives on in quiet ways on the streets of this wonderful town.
Can you please wear a hat next time you go out with friends, can you please persuade your friends to wear them too? There are those among us who will thank you for brightening up our day.... I would love to know your take on how we can bring hats back into daily life so please leave a comment and share your thoughts. If you like this post I would love you to tweet or facebook it. Now I'm off to plan my next hat wearing event.

Launceston Country Club here we come.

2012-01-04T16:11:00.001-08:00

Or should I say Launceston Country Club here we came with this clip. This is the one from 2011, I will leave it in because it features one of my favourites for 2011, the cream beret with the linen silk flowers & the piece with the raffia flowers that came 3rd in the Millinery award on Oaks Day at Flemington.

The one below is the 2012 promotion. I would love to recommend the evening. The parade is impressive with the man behind the scenes, Christopher Horne putting on a fabulous show. The social side is great fun and you will have the perfect opportunity to inspect and buy hats from myself or my lovely colleague Kim Fletcher. Do come and say hello, I would love to see you there.

Millinery hat blocks for sale

2012-01-04T01:26:00.000-08:00

Have a look at these vintage style hat blocks for your hat block collection

Regretfully they have to go to clear space for new projects in 2012. I have photos from other angle for each block. Email me at sjlhm1@gmail.com with any questions about postage or for more images.

Feminine flat cap- $250 plus postage. SOLD

The underside of the peak folds up into the cap and the top part concertinas down onto the brim.

A 5 piece block.

Flat Cap $200. SOLD

A man's cap shape or one that can be used creatively to make women's hats. A 5 piece block.

Brim block $160.SOLD

This block has a gentle slope and is slightly shorter at the back.

Wide flat brim block- $100SOLD

This block curves down gently at the edges & is about 2cm deep

Aluminium 5 piece gent's block $400

This block would have to be picked up as it is very heavy. The stand is a rough hewn block which is included in the price. I paid much more for it than I want today, it would be a great component in a well designed room.

Last hats for 2011

2012-01-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

The year 2011 ended with a sparkle for me, staying with friends at their beach house in Anglesea I took it on myself to provide the party hats & masks. Armed with a great big budget of less than $20 for 6 hats I selected my materials carefully. It is amazing what Bourke Road Camberwell can offer in the way of millinery materials at short notice.

1 bag of pom-poms $2.99 Riot- Bourke Road, Camberwell
1 bag of pipe cleaners (ditto)
1 packet of paper hats $1.95 from the two dollar shop nearby
1 packet of plastic masks $1.95 (same place- a last minute inclusion)
1 tube of Uhu glue from the newsagent around the corner $2.95.

The challenge was thrown out to the gathered friends and dear Jackie joined in the spirit of things and created 2 hats and a mask.

Here is my final collection for 2011 on the deck

and the accompanying masks (toe nail polish courtesy of Sandra)

juxtaposed against our reward for effort ( a simple Australian sparkling and the first for the evening)

So this is my first post for 2012, I would like to wish you a happy new year and may 2012 be a time for us to find the things that really matter, human connection, peace, simple joys & of course the perfect hat for every occasion. Thanks for reading this blog & Happy New Year.

One woman- three hats.

2011-12-11T17:57:00.000-08:00

Here's another lovely client I have known for a number of years. Her first hat is the cream and pink one at the bottom. Her other one is this real classic black hat made for her this year. It is always a pleasure to see a stylish woman in a really well put together outfit crowned with a beautiful hat. Nobody could doubt that I love my job!!!

The client in question is Jen Kennison and she is in the draw to win a $500 Serena Lindeman hat to be drawn on the night of Wednesday 14th December (2011). For your chance at this prize simply send a shot of yourself in your Serena Lindeman Millinery hat or headpiece before the draw. The winner will be announced on Thursday 15th December.

Jen Kennison in made to order hat 2011

Jen Kennison in sister Deb's hat

Jen in made to order hat from about 2008(?)

One for the boys

2011-12-09T21:42:00.000-08:00

One happy day I found you a supply of really good quality Panama hats. I have them for sale HERE on my website or you can try them on if you are in the Melbourne CBD at my studio in the Nicholas Building. The sizing of these hats is explained in the store and the hats are simple and easy to wear. I hope you enjoy seeing my Nicholas Building neighbour, Tim, Flatland OK modelling the 3 colours we have available. Just for now the freight within Australia is free.... just check for availability of colour & size before you make your order. Enjoy.

Natural colour

White (only 60cm available at present)

Honey colour

One hat, 2 looks

2011-12-04T13:28:00.000-08:00

Here's Jessica wearing her Serena Lindeman peachy pink hat with a vibrant purple pleated ribbon trim... scroll down to see what else Jessica did with her hat.

Here we are 2 days later and Jessica has a completely different look from the same hat just by changing the trim... We all know that a new hat can be expensive and consume a lot of space so to save both have Serena create more than one look from the same basic piece. You will be happy I am sure

Sandy McDonald looking lovely in Serena Lindeman Millinery

2011-11-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

Sandy is another client I met this year. She arrived from interstate fairly late in the season with a very particular colour scheme. I always love making this kind of hat, the crown, brim and interesting trim. It is best when it is made to order because the size has to be right. She is in the running for another simply by sending me a shot of herself in her Serena Lindeman hat.

Joanna Pidcock wears Serena Lindeman Millinery to Emirates Stakes Day

2011-11-15T21:21:00.000-08:00

Joanna is the daughter of a client I saw 2 years ago. She borrowed her mum's hat and entered Fashions on the Field on Emirate Stakes day last year. I am delighted to inform you that she came runner up. I can see why, she looks great. She is now in the running to win a $500 hat from Serena Lindeman Millinery just for sending in this shot of herself.

Heidi's hat

2011-11-15T16:44:00.000-08:00

Heidi arrived in my studio quite late in the season. She had her lovely colourful top with it and she wanted something that would work with the colours but be adaptable in future. This piece was made using my favourite spiky flowers which can all be removed and rearranged in the future, they can also be pinned onto a jacket as a colourful trim.

She is now entered in the draw to receive a Serena Lindeman hat to the value of $500. To be in the running simply email a photo of yourself in your Serena Lindeman hat. The prize will be drawn on December 14th. The winner will be announced on the 15th.

Renata in Serena Lindeman Millinery

2011-11-14T02:18:00.000-08:00

I love this photo of Renata in her Serena Lindeman hat, she commissioned the piece with a very clear image of what she wanted in her mind. She tells me she got plenty of compliments... I think i can see why. She has 2 chances to win a $500 hat by SL just for sending me a shot of her in her SL hat & liking Serena Lindeman Millinery on Facebook. To be in the running simply email me a photo of yourself in a Serena Lindeman hat. Get a second chance by Liking my page on Facebook (you can use the link above)

Win a Serena Lindeman hat to the value of $500

2011-11-12T23:05:00.000-08:00

I love it when I receive photos of you looking your best in your Serena Lindeman Millinery hats, it gives me great pleasure to share these shots. As an incentive I am offering a hat to the value of $500.00 to one lucky client, to be drawn at random on December 14th. To be in the winning all you have to do is send a photo of yourself or a friend with permission to post it on-line. The winner will be announced on December 15th. You can email the photos to me to Serena's email address & I will put your name on the list. Like Serena Lindeman on Facebook and receive a double chance of winning (clients who already like Serena Lindeman Millinery will automatically be given 2 chances). Best of luck to you all....

Favourite hats from spring 2011

2011-11-08T05:35:00.000-08:00

It's always a strange time of year the week after the Melbourne Cup Carnival. A great time to reflect on some of the wonderful women who came into the studio during the lead up, some of their pics are on my Serena Lindeman Millinery facebook page . I love seeing how my clients put their outfits together & I always enjoy hearing about how women get to meet each other by recognising the hat first. We are working on some stunning silk flowers at the moment & some really classic summer hats. Call the studio if you are interested in seeing them. I hope to see you soon.

My Studio, you are welcome

2011-10-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Buying millinery online

2011-09-27T00:03:00.000-07:00

Announcing an easy way to purchase a hat or headpiece for the Melbourne Cup Carnival. The Serena Lindeman millinery website has an easy secure store where you can browse and buy your millinery. Most pieces fit a range of sizes, descriptions are given and guidance is given for wearing. Each piece is shown from a number of angles and availability is indicated. You can really buy with confidence. All you need to do is click on Serena Lindeman Millinery store & select the piece you want. All pieces on the site are in stock and ready for immediate despatch. Orders will be happily considered & delivered in a timely manner. ( time allowances will differ throughout the season- just email for an indication of availability)

2011-09-23T01:07:00.001-07:00

Last night I participated in an event run by Nicola Fitted for Work

Time Out Melbourne

2011-09-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

Recently I had a visit from the people from Time Out Melbourne. I have very fond memories of the Time Out Magazine in London when I lived there. I bought it every week and it was my bible of all things happening in that wonderful city. Now they are in Melbourne in online form and soon to be a magazine launching in October. In the mean time they have published a piece on Melbourne's best milliners. I am in good company along with the likes of Louise Macdonald, Richard Nylon, Paris Kyne & Julie Flemming, here is the link to the article http://www.au.timeout.com/melbourne/shopping/features/625/best-millineries-in-melbourne Enjoy!!!

Hello spring, welcome to Melbourne

2011-09-04T01:17:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year, as a milliner I feel the rising excitement that brings on the Melbourne Cup Carnival. This year I have some great events planned which I will tell you about as they come closer. If you have not yet booked your tickets for Hatstravagance you can book here. This event is a must for the hat lovers of this world or if you just want a great experience in the lead up to Melbourne's premier daytime party. To quote the VRC website
"Members of the Millinery Association of Australia will be showcasing their Spring collection as part of a parade of designer hats and fascinators.

Enjoy a piccolo of sparkling wine and your individual hamper box, while you preview the runway show of millinery and the latest accessory trends for the racetrack. All headwear and accessories will be available for purchase on the night.

It truly is a must attend event for all well-heeled ladies and lovers of fashion and racewear."

Here are a couple of pieces I plan to bring along to the event, come and say hello & I will help you find the perfect piece for you.

My favourite florist in Melbourne- Whitemoss

2011-08-07T02:37:00.000-07:00

One of my guilty pleasures is flowers from Loretta and Zoe at Whitemoss, I love the way they are perched in a secluded room on the first floor of a building in Flinders Way. They always have interesting and unusual flowers, I like to get a gymea lily every year, they last a couple of months and inspire me with their beautiful coral colouring- see one here.

I love the way they bank the flowers up on benches. A visual delight just to be in the room.

There is always something exotic there as well, something unexpected... I love that.

Yay, Mae West, got your priorities right... actually diamonds for their financial value... and with the small change, FLOWERS.

and bicycles.

Sophie Digard-

2011-08-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

My favourite indulgence last week was a scarf by a designer called Sophie Digard. This French designer creates crochet that looks like it was created by a force of nature. Using subtle colour combinations and very fine wool thread her scarves are just lovely. Below is a photo of mine ( I have rarely had it off since I got it). Now she has bags... also so special, Kim has posted photos, if you would like to see more have a look here .

Millinery Short Course- Tuesday nights, starting in mid August

2011-07-28T05:30:00.000-07:00

Hello there, I am delighted to be able to announce a winter short course at Serena Lindeman Millinery. The course will be aimed at complete beginners and those with some experience wishing to learn the best techniques in a friendly and supportive environment.

Title: Fundamentals of Millinery

Dates: Tuesday 16/8/11 – 20/9/11 (6 weeks) Times: 6.00pm -9.00pm

Suitable for: Beginners and those with minimal millinery experience.

Outline: during this short course participants can expect to gain a sound foundation in millinery techniques. Each participant will create his or her own individual hat/headpiece & commence a second one to complete at home

Cost: $395.00 Includes materials for your first hat- you should allow an extra $30.00 - $80.00 for materials cost for your second hat (course fee includes the cost of some material requirements including the use of blocks, stiffener, wire, hat box and other incidentals)

To Enrol:

· Email your interest to me by return email including a contact telephone number. I will then telephone you to arrange payment (credit card, cheque & Paypal (make payments to serenalindeman@yahoo.com.au ) accepted)

· Telephone the studio on 96394600 to reserve your place.

Conditions

* Positions will be offered in the order enrolment applications are received. Bookings will only be confirmed when payment is processed.

* Session numbers are limited to ensure maximum learning over the 6 weeks.

* Workshops will only run when minimum numbers are enrolled. Participants will be notified one week before the workshop.

* Materials list & timetable will be provided one week before the workshop.

Participants will also be given the opportunity to join future “drop in” classes held fortnightly in the studio on Saturday mornings from 10.00am.

Open Studios- Nicholas Building

2011-07-23T20:44:00.000-07:00

Images of Serena Lindeman millinery in Hosier Lane

2011-07-06T01:07:00.000-07:00

These are the first few pieces in Serena's spring 2011 millinery collection, more to follow.

Chaos & disorder

2011-06-25T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today I embrace studio mess. As I said last week I have been working on designs for spring 2011 & the studio is a kind of mood board for me.. Here are 3 randomly selected shots showing some of the bridal flowers, my current preoccupation with silver and one with exuberant colour, please enjoy & thanks for the visit.

Quiet winter nights & spring hat trims

2011-06-21T04:55:00.000-07:00

Watching my blogging friends I realise that I really need to just write more. Millinery's the primary obsession here and we've been dreaming up some interesting shapes for trims for the disc shapes we started working on last year. I like the interchangeability of those shapes and the trick is to have a sweet new trim for it... what do you think of this one?

Trim (up) plus hat (down)= new look.

Zanna Gale, happy customer

2011-03-24T22:30:00.000-07:00

Doing this job you get to meet some really great people... and sometimes you don't meet them... What follows is an email sent to me last week by a woman I have never met. She lives in Broken Hill, where I have never been, and she ordered this hat on line. I posted it to her and ...she won a millinery competition. Very gratifying.

Hi Serena,

I bought a stunning headpiece from you in 2009. I hadn't had the chance to wear it up until this weekend. I wore it for St Patrick's race meeting in Broken Hill and won the millinery section!! So i was very excited and i do remember you saying to send you a photo of me wearing it. Last year 2 years were too hot for the outfit i was going to wear but this year it was perfect!! It had been raining as well so the horses were cancelled. We had a great day though!! I didn't ever meet you but spoke with you with emails and i think on the phone.

Kind regards,

Zanna

Serena Lindeman Millinery: Divine Miranda

2011-02-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

http://serenalindeman.com.au/store/category.php?id_category=14

Divine Miranda

2011-02-11T13:31:00.000-08:00

My aim in my millinery is to create the perfect piece for the bride's gown..... one that she loves and that satisfies me. This piece I made for a client called Miranda ticks all the boxes. She came to the studio with a crystal clear image in her mind of what she wanted and described it in detail. As you can see in the shots she has chosen a movie star gorgeous frock covered in the most delicate Chantilly lace which was beaded and encrusted with tiny coral coloured stones. We used some of the stone from her gown to create the centres of these very simple and effective rolled organza roses.

I love Launceston

2011-02-08T04:03:00.000-08:00

Launceston Cup is on the 23rd of February this year and it promises to be the best one yet. Their Fashions on the Field competition is equal to those in much larger cities with generous prizes. Here is a link - Launceston Cup.

Having just recently spent the weekend at the Launceston Country Club as a guest of Sue Rees and her staff I can attest to the amazing Tasmanian hospitality there. At the "Fashion Collectables From Top to Toe" parade of fashion by some of Australia's leading designers and 2 lucky milliners (Kim Fletcher and myself) run by the incomparable Christopher Horne.

I am delighted to inform you that I am stocking Sue's of Invermay, one of Launceston's fashionable boutiques with a limited range of "one off" millinery pieces (2 pictured below). If you need a hat or headpiece to finish your outfit I recommend you visit Julie there for a consultation.

Millinery Workshops for those who want to make hats.

2011-01-01T15:25:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to be able to announce 2 early year workshops at Serena Lindeman Millinery. The first weekend is for those with some experience, the emphasis will be on design development and refining technique. The second will be aimed at complete beginners wishing to learn the best techniques in a friendly and supportive environment.

Workshop 1

Title: Millinery design realised through the use of blocking and hand forming techniques

Dates: Saturday January 22nd & Sunday January 23rd 2011

Times: 10.00am -5.00pm daily with ah hour for lunch (total 12 hours)

Suitable for: Intermediate and advanced participants - basic ability to block and stitch will be assumed (telephone 03 96394600 if you have any questions)

Outline: during this weekend participants can expect to develop their own designs, choosing inspiration, draw designs and create an individual piece of headwear.

Cost: $275.00 + materials- you should allow an extra $30.00 - $80.00 for materials cost for your hat (course fee includes the cost of some material requirements including blocking net, stiffener, wire, hat box and other incidentals)

To Enrol: Email your interest to me by return email including a contact telephone number. I will then telephone you to arrange payment (credit card, cheque & paypal (make payments to serenalindeman@yahoo.com.au )accepted)

Workshop 2

Title: Fundamentals of Millinery

Dates: Saturday February 12^th& Sunday Feb 13^th 2011

Times: 10.00am -5.00pm daily with ah hour for lunch (total 12 hours)

Suitable for: Beginners and those with minimal millinery experience. Outline: during this weekend participants can expect to gain a sound foundation in millinery techniques. Each participant will create their own individual hat/headpiece.

Cost: $275.00 + materials- you should allow an extra $30.00 - $80.00 for materials cost for your hat (course fee includes the cost of some material requirements including the use of blocks, stiffener, wire, hat box and other incidentals)

Conditions

* Positions will be offered in the order enrolment applications are received. Bookings will only be confirmed when payment is processed.

* Session numbers are limited to ensure maximum learning over the weekend.

* Workshops will only run when minimum numbers are enrolled. Participants will be notified one week before the workshop.

* Materials list & timetable will be provided one week before the workshop.

Such a Sweet Weekend

2010-12-04T23:48:00.000-08:00

Finally, a few good reasons to wear a hat. Sunny days are here. If you prefer your hat to look good while it's protecting you from the sun then you might want to check these out, they can be found at L'Uccello on the second floor in the Nicholas Building for the foreseeable future. L"Uccello is open to the public on Thursday, Friday & Saturday each week, check for extended hours in the lead up to Christmas. These hats are blocked on fedora hat blocks and then finished with colourful cotton bands & a button. They are medium sized & can be ordered in large and small.

Mount Buller Summer School

2010-11-22T03:42:00.000-08:00

This last weekend I went with my partner to Mt Buffalo for a weekend of walking, I came back feeling 5 years younger than when I left. One of my teaching committments comes to mind, I would very much like to share it with you.
With a great selection of events including a master class with Guy Grossi, painting classes, photography, a produce market and more. Here is their introduction. For more information about the complete program click HERE.

To learn more about the millinery classes including those I will be teaching and to enroll click HERE. The millinery classes are taught by myself, Paris Kyne and Christine Waring . The program will take place over 4 days arriving at Mt Buller on Wednesday 23rd March 2011 and departing on Sunday 27th March 2011.

Summer is coming- Fedora or trilby?

2010-11-15T18:23:00.000-08:00

Bless the celebrities who wear these two popular styles, They are largely the same, distinguished only by the width of the brim. The trilby has a shorter brim than the fedora, sometimes called a stingy brim. For trilby inspiration think Jude Law or Keira Knightly . For fedoras think Indiana Jones or Humfrey Bogart.... that should get you there.

fedora

trilby

to get the look for yourself click onto the captions below the photos.

Launceston Cup Millinery

2010-11-15T02:15:00.000-08:00

The Launceston Cup is the perfect excuse to frock up, don a hat and look amazing. For those with a competitive side there is the Myer Fashions on the Field Competition, for the rest of us there is the chance to catch up with friends and enjoy a day of summer racing.To help you choose the right hat you can cruise my website secure online store and select from the range.Just go to https://serenalindeman.com.au/store/ You can search the categories headings or you can enter your own terms in the search box at the top.

Mardi Gras- click to see more

Berry Button- click for more

I'm happy to announce that I will be coming to Launceston in the lead up to the racing season in 2011. I will announce more when the date gets closer... Contact me to discuss your millinery requirements.

Magic Millions Millinery

2010-11-11T23:25:00.000-08:00

Queenslanders know that the whole Melbourne Cup carnival is just a warm up for the Magic Millions at the Gold Coast Turf Club in January. I am inclined to agree. Saturday 15th of January sees a $4.5 million dollar day of racing. Hard to beat.

Always keen to help here at Serena Lindeman Millinery we have created an online store to make it easy to come by just the right head wear for the big day.
Suggestions include Scarlet Fanfare for the woman who looks hot in red. Daisy daisy for the woman who wants a bit of fun with aqua & blonde loving brights and Hothouse flower for the woman who knows how to wear purple. More pieces will be loaded in the next few weeks. If you want to order a made to measure piece then feel free to make contact through the contact page. Dressed to the nines you will be sure to have a fabulous day.

Bridal headpiece, time to wed

2010-11-08T01:53:00.000-08:00

Click on the captions below each image to learn more about each of these pieces

Soon to be Mrs Elegant

Hello darling, I'm over here

Where have you been all my life?

Oaks Day 2010

2010-11-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

Oaks Day is, for me, the highlight of the Melbourne Cup Carnival. Most of the hats have been made and sent out to clients and I always look forward to being able to float without feeling the pressure of a board full of orders. The other thing is I get to dress Silvana, my lovely model for the day and compete in the Myer Fashions on the Field millinery award. The dress we chose is by Aurelio Costarella, I loved the soft metallic sheen of the satin and the way the pleats at the neckline focuses attention up to the face. Congratulations go to Liza Stedman, Lynette Lim and Richard Nylon for the top 3 places. We had a fabulous day and I enjoyed it all.

Hats with hair

2010-10-29T17:46:00.000-07:00

This morning there is a piece in the Herald Sun showing some ideas about how to wear hair with hats. My green "Chlorophyll" hat has been used for the big hat section .

Not many sleeps to go now

2010-10-26T16:01:00.000-07:00

Anyone who loves millinery will know that we are in the midst of the most exciting week of the year. My hats are walking out the door and each day is a juggle to make sure orders are completed on time, clients are met with a smile and the display at Peter Sheppard looks its best for the last minute shoppers. According to the forecast I would do well to make some waterproof hats in time for Derby Day which promises to do more for Melbourne's water storage than the elegant fashionistas the day is known for. Yes I know it's the best day of racing on the Melbourne calendar but for many it is all about looking divine and checking out the style on course. Here is a shot of Robbie Rivett, Gill Andrew and me at Oaks Day last year, having a fabulous day.

The best advice I can think of for this weekend is don't wear your best shoes and carry an umbrella.... you have been warned the weather will be inclement so go have fun in the rain.

Auckland, very good place to visit with a gold cup

2010-10-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip from my recent visit with Richard Nylon, Kim Fletcher and the VRC to Auckland to promote the Melbourne Cup.

Good Morning | Television New Zealand | Television | TV One, TV2, TVNZ 6, TVNZ 7

tvnz.co.nz

Sarah gets a taste of the Melbourne Cup, talking to top miliners Serena Lindeman, Richard Nylon and Kim Fletcher; trainer Sheila Laxon and jockey John Letts; and fashion stylist Franco Schifilliti.

New website- finally launched, tell your friends.

2010-10-13T13:24:00.000-07:00

Celebrations today as I can finally announce the launch of my new website. It is now possible to browse a sizable proportion of my collection and purchase on line from the new website . Find out about events, new products and make contact through the site. Drop me a line and let me know what you think of it, thanks, Serena

Peter Sheppard, Collins St Melbourne now has Serena Lindeman hats

2010-10-03T23:03:00.000-07:00

Today I took the first consignment of millinery from the studio to their flagship store in Collins St Melbourne CBD. This season the hats are largely made to wear on hair bands which, when worn straight will position the piece forward over the right eye, where they will look best.

Silk flowers in Spring

2010-10-03T02:33:00.000-07:00

These flowers were designed as an interchangeable hat trim, I have been asked by a number of clients to make one hat work with more than one outfit. My solution is to create these spiky flowers to be pinned onto a classic base. Simple!

Alice in a hat

2010-09-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Rosettes and flowers

2010-09-22T03:12:00.000-07:00

Hatstravagance- Serena Lindeman collection 2010

2010-09-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

We are very excited about this parade & are working hard to produce a few surprises for our clients on the day. This one promises to be the best one yet and will be not to be missed. By the way, this piece is called chlorophyll & is also available in natural, red, pink, black & purple.

Hatstravagance- Think of a milliner

2010-09-16T16:21:00.000-07:00

Members of the Millinery Association of Australia will be showcasing their Spring collection as part of a parade of designer hats and fascinators.

Enjoy a glass of Yellowglen sparkling on arrival and your individual hamper box, while you view a runway show of millinery and the latest accessory trends for the Melbourne Cup Carnival this year. All headwear and accessories will be available for purchase.

This event sells out – so book early to avoid disappointment. http://www.vrc.net.au/at-flemington/events-detail.asp?vrc_event_id=219

Hello and welcome to the fan club.

2010-09-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

More pictures of Spring headpieces from 2010. I love the way they come to life on the divine Alice.

Silver is an interesting metal

2010-08-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

I shot some more of the spring collection with lovely Alice Molan today. The beret is trimmed with a lavish bunch of silver leather lilies with diamante stamens.

Fanning the flames of desire

2010-08-23T23:11:00.000-07:00

This is Alice wearing a piece from S/S 2010. It is a variation on the fan theme with a flirtatious cluster flowers drawing attention to all the right places. Watch for the new website to buy one online.

Colour, I love it.

2010-08-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

Last year you may be aware that I made a number of hats using wired raffia flowers, one of them came 3rd in the Myer Fashions on the Field Millinery award. I am still using the same techniques in my work. The thing I love about it is that it is joyful, colour can be mixed up with abandon, it's hard not to smile when you wear it.

Black and White

2010-08-02T23:36:00.000-07:00

Part of my Serena Lindeman 2010 Spring Summer racewear collection. A cream straw beret trimmed with silk "cartoon" daisies and curled ostrich quills. Thanks to Cendrine Ryan Photography (+61 407884490) for this stunning image.

Mid winter millinery- my life is a mood board

2010-06-06T00:05:00.000-07:00

Since I last wrote to you I have been gathering inspiration for the new season and teaching quite a lot of millinery and design. The idea of a mood board interests me, saving so much time wandering around with an empty head.

For the last couple of years I have had a collection of cork boards where I pin anything of interest. Having a visually rich environment helps me with developing ideas while maintaining continuity with my past work. In these shots you can see evidence of past ideas and objects & techniques I find attractive and interesting.

In Pussy Cat Heaven with Lilly Dache

2010-04-16T05:13:00.000-07:00

I am now the proud owner of the Lilly Dache "Glamour" book which arrived in the post today. Sometimes life is good and then it gets better, when I opened it I found that she had autographed it for a Florence Willis, what a find, I am still excited.
She writes in 1956, and she gives advice on all subjects. My favourite, how to buy a hat. This is part of history I would like to have back, imagine this-
"For a womans hat is close to her heart, thought she wears it on her head. She buys a new hat for many reasons, all influenced by her emotions. When a crisis arrives in her life a woman is likely to meet it by buying a hat. When faced by a disappointment or a failure a woman may buy a gay and daring hat as a gesture to say to the world: "See, I have not been beaten yet.""

I have another book where she describes her life, called "Talking through my Hats". In it she describes her emporium in New York where she has a 9 story high building devoted to millinery, including a gold and a silver floor for women with different complexions and an apartment at the top for her to live in.... I WANT ONE!

This is Lilly herself, looking glamorous in a floral creation- what a woman!!!

Organza Roses- Handmade even better

2010-03-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Today I want to show you some shots of 2 of my clever students, Jane and Lauren with the organza roses they made in a class with me last week. I never tire of the beautiful results achieved with this technique which requires no tools. I think the girls have every good reason to look pleased with themselves.

Wow- I love these hats

2010-03-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

House of Architects hats have a look for pure impractical visual treats.

Some Colour- more from the archives

2010-03-10T01:46:00.001-08:00

These pieces are all here today because I am in the mood for colour, I love the idea of wearing something witty and bright with or without a co-ordinating colour in the outfit, I love a client who wants her hat and by extension her face to be the centre of attention. There is no greater compliment to a milliner than for the client to let the hat be the story.

Happy memories- found while cleaning up my photo files

2010-02-25T02:38:00.000-08:00

Between seasons and getting around to filing photos, deleting old things and putting them in order... all good in theory. In practice there are seasons and seasons of photographs of hats that remind me of clients, ideas I had while working on something completely different and just pieces that still look good. These pieces were all part of the collection I took to Dubai in March 2007. I love the look that Stephanie gives them, I remember the "shoot", it was a really hot afternoon and we were about to have a farewell party for the hats before they left these shores. We had a really fun night, each hat took about 3 minutes to shoot.... give that they should not look as good as they do. Lucky Serena to have such a stunning model.

My Favourite Subject

2010-02-15T03:32:00.000-08:00

Victorians (Australians from Victoria) will remember when "The Golden Age of Couture" exhibition from the V&A Museum came to Bendigo. I was lucky enough to be allowed to do a floor talk at that show. It was a while ago now, I just came across the photos and I thought I would like to share them with you.

On the screen behind me is an origami trimmed beret which I made using dupion silk origami waterlilies.

Here's me talking about the virtues of making a big mad hat. Behind me is a pink "satellite dish" trimmed with silver leather lilies with diamante stamens.

This one is my favourite shot. After the talk I invited the audience to come up to the front of the room and have a play with the hats.... So much fun.

2010-02-13T20:01:00.000-08:00

February is the month for taking stock at my studio. I have had these around 6 years and I fear I will never use them. I love each of these for different reasons. The first 2 flowery ones are naive and sweet. The 3rd one I have not been able to come up with a category. They are for sale at Etsy if you want to see them and more. http://www.etsy.com/shop/TreasuresForCraft/

One of my favourite blogs- Teacups and Couture

2010-02-09T17:18:00.000-08:00

You should see this. "Teacups and Couture" is my favourite blog (well.. equal favourite with "the Sartorialist"). I have cut and pasted this information about Roxanna, the very clever author of this blog. Here is the address of her blog. http://www.twolia.com/blogs/teacups-and-couture/. Roxanna Bina has lived and breathed fashion since she was a toddler trying on her mother’s high heeled shoes and smearing lipstick on her tiny lips. She isn’t one to follow trends-she sets them. Roxanna will be hitting the runways and catwalks-above and underground-to bring ‘Twolia’ what’s cool and new in the world of style and fashion. She also has an affinity for Persian cats, Earl Grey tea, James Bond, and Be@rbricks. Check her out her celebrity interviews at YouTube ,befriend her at MySpace and follow her on Twitter.Roxanna Bina has lived and breathed fashion since she was a toddler trying on her mother’s high heeled shoes and smearing lipstick on her tiny lips. She isn’t one to follow trends-she sets them. Roxanna will be hitting the runways and catwalks-above and underground-to bring ‘Twolia’ what’s cool and new in the world of style and fashion. She also has an affinity for Persian cats, Earl Grey tea, James Bond, and Be@rbricks. Check her out her celebrity interviews at YouTube ,befriend her at MySpace and follow her on Twitter.

Stamens- for making silk flowers

2010-02-07T03:30:00.000-08:00

This weekend I decided to clear out some old stuff and I loaded it on my Etsy shop (one of 2) called Treasuresforcraft. If you don't know about Etsy it's where you can buy craft, craft supplies and vintage stuff online. There are THOUSANDS of little shops on the site & you can search whatever you like. If you like stamens, ribbon & diamante buttons go and have a look at http://www.etsy.com/shop/TreasuresForCraft .

Bag maker extrordinaire

2010-02-05T04:07:00.000-08:00

I met Nicole Mallalieu about 9 years ago quite soon after I returned to Australia from my London life. Nicole was teaching a bag making class and I was teaching millinery. I am still teaching millinery and she is still teaching bag making. She has a wonderful blog http://nicolemdesign.blogspot.com/ and a website http://www.nicolemdesign.com.au/ & I recommend them both to you.

Handforming millinery long weekend, January 2010

2010-01-31T18:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some shots of the participants in one of my recent Long Weekend millinery classes where the participants did handformed shapes. There were 5 in the group and they all ended up with completely different pieces at the end of the weekend. I never cease to be impressed at the creative confidence that can emerge when the correct techniques are taught. To see the results of their efforts go to http://www.facebook.com/pages/Serena-Lindeman-Millinery/216720324214?ref=ts .

Margaret & Rebecca creating shapes.

Lyndal and Katherine hard at work blocking.

Christen binding a brim edge on the sewing machine.

Some drying blocked pieces on the back stairs.

Another Marche Rouge event

2010-01-25T04:03:00.000-08:00

Start Time:	Thursday, 11 February 2010 at 12:00
End Time:	Saturday, 13 February 2010 at 14:00
Location:	Level 2, Nicholas Building, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne

A "Marie Antoinette" themed event for 3 days leading up to Valentine's Day to be held in the 2nd floor Nicholas Building room of Kim Hurley, visual merchandise and haberdashery queen. Various tenants of the building will participate displaying a variety of interesting design work.
Given the date this event could solve some romantic gift dilemmas.

Start Time:	Thursday, 11 February 2010 at 12:00
End Time:	Saturday, 13 February 2010 at 14:00
Location:	Level 2, Nicholas Building, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne

Mother, daughter, scarf.

2010-01-23T01:58:00.000-08:00

So you know, I'm diversifying my product range. With some help from my lovely sister, Mikaila & her daughter, Zara I am showing you my new scarf collection. Below you see the red one - there are other colours in my Etsy shop http://www.etsy.com/shop/Serenajane?section_id=6674156 they are available online.

If you are in fabulous Melbourne you can come to my studio and be one of the first to have one... They will be available at the upcoming Marche Rouge in the Nicholas Building, learn more here http://www.facebook.com/pages/Serena-Lindeman-Millinery/216720324214?v=app_2344061033&ref=search

Hat blocks- organised

2010-01-19T16:31:00.000-08:00

Today I have been sorting out my hat blocks after a weekend group and I messed them up. It was quite fun to inventory them and work out which ones I want to sell ( not that many- some good ones none the less). I know it's not perfect... work in progress.... but better, you can be the judge.

The ones in the shot above are mostly vintage blocks, the little one on the top at the centre is new, I haven't even used it yet. I will post a shot of the hat it makes when I get around to it.

The 2 blocks in this shot are both vintage and I love them both. You can see the one on the left on my winter page http://www.serenalindeman.com.au/winter.php if you want to see it made up into a cap. (bottom left hand corner)

Here are the brim blocks, I had a lot with pins set in them so I spent an hour knocking the pins out of them... compact, Hooray!

I made the block in the middle of this photo, it forms an elegant hat along with a downturned brim. The shape suits a lot of different people http://www.serenalindeman.com.au/racing.php
If you are interested in seeing more of what can be done with the hat blocks you might be interested in my Serena Lindeman Millinery facebook page. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Serena-Lindeman-Millinery/216720324214?ref=ts the clever students photos show a lot of hats made in my workroom.

Fair Trade at Fedaration Square- Headpiece

2010-01-09T16:11:00.000-08:00

This headpiece is the product of a request I had to create some head wear with some fair trade silk from Laos. It is some of the most fascinating material I have ever used with some really lovely potential. This design is an exaggeration of a classic lily flower using a crisp open weave silk and black thread with black stripped coque feathers in the centre. It is on a covered headband which can be seen as part of the flower. The piece is a one off and is available for purchase from me through http://www.serenalindeman.com.au/ send me a message through the contact page. It would be a wonderful bridal headpiece, or a classy racing headpiece. 100% of the sale price for this piece will be contributed to the organisation in Laos to provide basic facilities for the villages where this silk was produced.

Welcome to blog world, making new friends

2010-01-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

Since I opened my online Etsy shop I have been learning about how information travels everywhere a computer can be in ways that are totally unpredictable. My new best friend is "Beyond the Pale" , a blogger based in England.... where it is currently freezing cold. Friendship blossoms on account of her choosing my panama hat as part of her fantasy about being somewhere hot with cricket... where panama hats are de rigueur for audience and umpires alike. The posting can be found by following this link http://beyondthepaleblog.wordpress.com/2010/01/07/id-rather-be-watching-the-cricket-somewhere-hot/ .

If you want to see my stuff on Etsy go this way http://www.etsy.com/shop/Serenajane . Enjoy the view.

Summer- Southern Hemisphere- Sun hat.

2010-01-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

The business of keeping delicate faces out of the sun on the beach & still looking delightful is one of the weighty matters exercising my mind at this time of year. While I think the local chemist shop is a great place to pick up personal toiletries and the occasional health remedy it's not a place to find the perfect hat for the beach. With a little planning your neighbourhood milliner will do a much better job at keeping off the UV. Of course I would say that wouldn't I! See these pics and make up your own mind.

Usually sun hats are made of sturdier materials than fashion hats to take the punishment meted out on the beach. They are usually broad brimmed or at least wide enough to cover the eyes like the bucket hat. They need to fit perfectly so that they will not give the wearer a migraine or blow off in the first gust of wind. The are usually less elaborately decorated than a fashion hat although this is at your discretion. Sometimes they are just a little bit silly, after all you are on holidays when you wear them.

It is important that the hat is comfortable, durable and that it suits you. Professional advice helps and costs no extra.

More photos from Oaks Day

2009-11-26T00:21:00.000-08:00

A sweet clip

2009-11-15T15:51:00.000-08:00

Hester Thompson Brown is a young woman who has made a very sweet short documentary clip in this building where I work. Apart from me you will see the talented designer Lin Tobias of La Bella and the maker of excellent bags and etchings, Peter O'Connor. Watch until the very end and you will see the lovely Fiona Griffiths and her work. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDmOMJbPbk8

What does a milliner do after the races are over?

2009-11-15T15:33:00.000-08:00

Recover, that's what. I have added a photo of myself and my lovely model Jade taken at Flemington on Oaks Day just before the Myer Fashions on the Field millinery award competition. We came 3rd after Kerrie Stanley who won and Felicity Northeast who came second. Congratulations to both of them and also to the other 7 runners up, Louise Macdonald, Richard Nylon, Susan Drerup, Robbie Rivett, Mandy Murphy, Angela Menz and Ward & Wylie.

Those in the know will recognise some very talented and accomplished milliners among the list.

2009 Spring Racing Carnival

2009-10-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I was at Moonee Valley judging the millinery event in the GPO Fashions on the Field. The standard of the hats on display was consistently high. I was really pleased to see plenty of really well made and well proportioned hats in one place, it bodes well for the Melbourne Cup week at Flemington next week. I hope the weather is as good next week.

If you are still looking for a hat for Melbourne Cup week I have a suggestion. Go to Peter Sheppard in Collins St (across the street from Block Arcade), there are about 50 of my finest creations left there, ask for Hannah to help you find the best one for you. Bring your outfit and you can match hat and shoes at the same time.

Three hats from my collection

2009-03-12T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hello

2009-03-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Nothing looks as good to me as a woman dressed in a hat, part of my particular insanity is that I love hats. I make hats and I want you to see them. Have a look at my website http://www.serenalindeman.com.au/home.php . Ill talk to you later.