Feature Friday: Shocking Bad Hats
Founded in 2012, Shocking Bad Hats is the place to find all your extravagant and fabulous millinery needs! The shop specializes in late 18th century and early 19th century styles but also has a wide range of hats and bonnets from a variety of other time periods. Styles include everything from the Regency to the 1920s and even historically-inspired fantasy creations.
Milliner and proprietress Rebecca finds inspiration from historical sources as well as movies and television; however, her favorite things to recreate are the “outrageous, high-fashion Regency styles.” As she says herself, “I love a fashion plate challenge!”
A great example of this is the Queen’s Gambit hat. Made from silk velvet and silk taffeta, it is one of the more fantastical designs offered. The structured shape is based off of an 1816 fashion plate and would make an eye-catching topper to any outfit.
More in the traditional Regency vein but still unusual and unique, this 1811 French bonnet is a recreation from an extant piece in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection and is made from peach silk taffeta with vintage silk roses. It would make a charming spring hat or the perfect addition to a more subdued Bridgerton cosplay.
Or if you want something neoclassical yet dramatic, the Josephine Grecian casque not only has triple brims but also a standing crest! Shown here in striking pink and black, the helmet style was popular from the 1790s through to the 1810s.
But the shop doesn’t only offer silk and buckram hats; there are lots of options if you prefer a straw base instead. The Beehive bonnet is a sweet and charming style. Imagine it worn to a summer picnic a la Emma at Box Hill!
Bonnets not your thing? The Mrs. Jennings straw hat has a tapered crow with upturned brim, and can be made in either straw or silk.
Or this 1790s hat would be charming with sharply tailored riding habit or redingote!
This is just a small sampling of the different millinery you can have custom made to coordinate with your historical wardrobe! In general, all Shocking Bad Hats are sold exclusively on commission. Rebecca loves to work with customers to create one-of-a-kind pieces that are tailored to their specifications. You can find the full range of styles she offers on her website or see new designs and examples of previous commissions on the Shocking Bad Hats Facebook page.