Philip Treacy
‘Gilded Star’
Etched through a thin polished brass to create a star shape that sits on the forehead, as seen on Philip Treacy's Spring/Summer 2013 Haute Couture Show.
The art of decorative metal etching is a testament to the timeless union of creativity and craftsmanship. It allows us to connect with ancient traditions while embracing modern innovation.
Not for sale.
Materials and Techniques
Etched brass.
Millinery Heritage
“After graduating from The National College of Art & Design in Dublin, I won a place on the MA fashion design course at the Royal College of Art in London. When I was interviewed I didn’t know whether to play down the hats or play up the hats, but they were thinking of setting up a hat course so I became their guinea pig. After one day there I said to my tutor Sheilagh Brown: What should I do? Should I make hats or clothes?’ She said: ‘make hats.’ It was very practical, not a great revelation.
My mother had chickens, geese, pheasants and ducks, so all the ingredients of the hat were in my house. My mother had a sewing machine. I was never allowed to use it, but I was so fascinated by this little needle going up and down joining fabric together that I’d use it when my mother went out to feed the chickens. There was like five minutes to get it out. If my mother found me I would be in a lot of trouble. I used to make clothes for my sister’s dolls. I couldn’t care less for the dolls but I could make the clothes really easily.”
About Philip Treacy
Exquisite handcrafted sculptural masterpieces showcase the fantastical imagination of this Irishman, who for over 30 years has created couture hats that draw admiration and surprise in equal measure, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. In 2007, Philip Treacy was awarded an honorary OBE by Her Late Majesty The Queen for his service to the British fashion industry.
Using the fashion catwalk as his platform, Treacy inspires and challenges perceptions of the hat worldwide. He has collaborated with many icons, including Her Majesty The Queen, the Princess of Wales, Lady Gaga, Grace Jones, Madonna, and Kate Moss.