1. Tell us about the range, how did it come about?
I started developing my new ready to wear range a few years back when I was travelling a lot. I needed that perfect vacation hat that was as glamorous and comfortable as the locations I was visiting. I am also a huge music lover and with outdoor festivals I wanted a great hat not only for sun protection, but as that great standout accessory. Of course I could have made myself anything I liked and I certainly did at times but couture was not what I needed. I wanted something less precious that I could throw on with anything from a fab frock to my bikini and was still luxurious and fashionable.
My quest led me to create a range of sunhats, fedoras, caps and boaters that will take us from the beach to lunch and even to the track in style. It was important for me to have these designed and hand finished here in Australia; and still offer the best fibres the world has to offer.
2. We have been seeing your bespoke headwear in countless fashion magazines and at the most important race meetings in the world including Melbourne Cup and Royal Ascot. What does it mean for you to have a new audience of sun lovers wearing your hats?
I adore my role in the racing industry and have a great love of the couture pieces I have the pleasure of making for the glossies, but I am now really looking forward to being accessible to everyone with my new online store. I have a lot of respect for quality natural fibres and have made them the foundation of my range. We have artisan woven belts and panama hats that have been woven the same way since the 1700s – I am thrilled to share these.
Nerida Winter’s Austin hat and (right) Baja hat chalk. Pictures: Supplied
3. What is your personal favourite style to wear?
I love the Austin hat in black – she’s a little bit cowgirl and a lot sexy.
4. When buying a hat what tips and tricks should we know. Are there any specific rules for difference face shapes?
With the sunhats and fedoras all those rules that apply to a bespoke hat can be relaxed. These hats are made to suit anyone and everyone. They are soft and comfortable and made to be enjoyed. The only thing I think is important here is to find an easy fit – we have a sizing chart that will help guide girls to finding the right one.
Model Nikki Phillips models some of Nerida Winter’s designs for The Weekly.
5. The all-important question – where can we buy your hats from?
My website – neridawinter.com has just launched and I couldn’t be more excited. We are also stocked in Myer nationally and selected boutiques across Australia and America.
