Victoria Jane of Melbourne may be extremely busy preparing headwear for the upcoming Melbourne Cup Season but it is the uniqueness and elegance of each piece that sustains her passion. She can’t wait to see the smile of gratitude on her clients face as her special headpiece or hat gives the simplest of outfits a fresh sparkle this Spring. 

What do you love most about Millinery?
I love how being a Milliner allows me to be creative in such an incredible and unique way. I find so much joy in seeing someone wearing my designs, and when I see them with that smile on their face when they see how good they look. Knowing that I’ve played a part in creating that feeling for my client, that’s what I love the most.

How did you get into Millinery?
I had relocated from Sydney to Melbourne, and decided to do a part-time course in Millinery at the Melbourne Fashion Institute. Millinery was always something that I had been curious about, and where better to explore that curiosity then in the home of Racing Fashion.

How you would describe your designs?
My designs can be as eclectic as I am! My latest Spring collection is feminine, a little bit quirky, and sparkly. I can’t say no to a bit of sparkle.

What is your ideal customer?
My ideal customer likes to interpret current fashion trends in their own way, they’ll usually put a unique personal twist into an outfit. As much as they like to make a statement, they also love looking elegant and glamorous.

What inspires you?
Most of my designs have been inspired by my surroundings, nature provides us with the most unbelievable colours and shapes. Following my favourite designers also gives me a few ideas to scribble into my note book.

If you could invite any milliner to tea who would it be and why?
Stephen Jones, I had been a longtime admirer of his work before I started learning Millinery. Now that I’ve been immersed in this world for a while, seeing how much work goes into a piece of millinery only makes me admire him even more. It would be a dream to be able to hear his stories around his ideas and experiences.

What is your favourite material to work with?
At the moment it’s Pearls and Crystals, they’re so relaxing to work with and they add a touch of romance and glamour to my designs. It might be something different soon, there’s always new materials always being discovered.

Whats your best millinery tip?
Take the time to learn the basics. As much as Millinery is an evolving art-form and there will always be trial and error, you’ll find that an understanding in the basics of construction will play a big part in the success of your design and formulating your own technique.

What has been the largest challenge you face in millinery?
For me, it’s the challenge of self doubt. Are my designs going to be liked? Are people going to want to buy them? What if everyone hates them?! It’s something I’m sure every creative person has experienced at some point. It can leave you feeling so exposed. Having the best group of friends around me helps more than I can say, you simply must surround yourself with those who are going to cheer you on!

Famous words to live by.
We are what we believe we are. - C.S. Lewis.

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