Hats off to you, sir!

Last weekend, I found myself caught in the rain in Dublin’s Cow Lane district. Seeking shelter and warmth, I dashed into the nearest shop, which just so happened to be the Cow’s Lane Designer Studio. Chock full of Irish-made jewellery, homewares, art and clothing, it was a welcome respite from the horrors of the “summer” weather outside.

While discovering the store’s many treasures, I wandered over to the far corner, which housed an entire wall of beautiful hats.

These ladylike cloche hats are available in a range of styles for year-round elegance.

Or why not a classic Panama for a more masculine touch?

I love the idea of hats, but I’ve never really been a hat person for a bunch of reasons; I always feel rude wearing them indoors and my ears stick out from beneath them, but mostly I’ve never found a hat that I really thought suited me.

After a few minutes, I was approached by a man who introduced himself as the owner. John Shevlin’s father started the family hat-making business in the 1960s, and John has been following in his footsteps ever since. A charming fellow, he began styling an assortment of different hats on me, trying each one for the right fit, while commenting on the range of colours and styles available. But which one is the perfect hat?

This leopard print trilby definitely appealed to my animal side. Man, I feel like a woman!

I have to say, I really liked this simple but elegant black cloche. Even if it won’t save me from the rain!


My friend Julie could have done with this regal hat for our joint Halloween costume last year!

Check out the Shevlin Millinery Facebook Page for more styles and hat advice!

Are you a hat fan? Share a photo of you in your favourite style!