I had a wonderful time the other day being  interviewed by BBC Radio Manchester as their “hat guru” for the Saturday morning programme “Becky Wants Retail Therapy”. It was round about Ascot time, but we talked in general about what kind of hat suits what kind of face, wedding etiquette, the resurgence of interest in headwear, how hats are made, and lots of other hat-related stuff. On this particular week the programme was broadcast from Ashton Market, which is a fine building full of all sorts of interesting things, and great characters! My spot was on at 9.30 am, and the early shoppers tucking into their bacon butties were most welcoming (if a little bemused……)

If you’ve not experienced the treasure trove that is Ashton Market, with everything from haberdashery to halibut (fresh) then I thoroughly recommend it. And listen to the show too – every Saturday, each week from a different location, and a mine of interesting information about all things retail in the Greater Manchester area.

H’atelier was chosen to be the subject of the MTV programme Manchester In Fashion , which should have been something to crow about. However, although the programme was on the whole well-made and (I think) quite interesting, they ruined it all by adding comments of their own, re hat-wearing in general, which definitely did not concur with my own eg “Not everyone can wear a hat” ….. (did they listen to a word I said?) Very disappointing, so I’m not keen to associate myself with it. Better to turn one’s back on the Sleb Lifestyle than sacrifice one’s artistic integrity, don’t you think?

ANOTHER BRUSH WITH FAME…..

I was immensely flattered to be asked by Gok’s team to feature some H’atelier hats for his hit show “How To Look Good Naked”. Half a dozen finally made their way to the catwalk in the Manchester Arndale, where I’m told they looked fab  (alas, due to the milling throng and my own diminished stature I couldn’t see a thing….) I was in on the rehearsals earlier in the day, where I met Gok , who is every bit as lovely as he seems ( even when  eating cheese & onion crisps). Great fun day all round.

How beautiful are these girls in their H’atelier headpieces? Click on the pictures below for the full impact. The sensational blonde wearing the orange bow headpiece was selected by Benefit to go forward for their new campaign, and we wish her every success.

Stylist: Karen Russell Photography: Kayti Peschke