BeretkAh...! “Watchful Eye” hat in the museum – A Journey to Chazelles-sur-Lyon

It’s not every day that something you create with your own hands, heart, and imagination finds its way into a museum. And yet, this is exactly what happened with my hat “Watchful Eye.” I’m still floating on the feeling.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to participate in L’art et la manière – Rencontres Internationales des Arts du Chapeau, the most prestigious international hat exhibition, held in the historic town of Chazelles-sur-Lyon, France. When the organizers reached out and asked me to share the news with fellow German hat makers, I took it as a sign. I didn’t have much time to think, and I honestly didn’t plan on submitting anything at all. But sometimes, these spontaneous moments are the most powerful. I knew immediately which hat to send.

“Watchful Eye” is one of my most personal and intuitive creations. It was born from deep reflection—on society, on the future, and on the role of identity in a world that’s constantly shifting. I was inspired by Rick Owens’ “Roman” vision—raw and futuristic, monumental yet vulnerable. I designed the hat as a shield and a spotlight at once. Its curved silhouette frames the wearer’s eyes in a way that suggests both protection and confrontation—a watchfulness, a knowing presence.

It also came from my own experience of living in a country where history still heavily influences behavior and cultural codes. “Watchful Eye” is a response to that—an echo of self-awareness, and a signal of independence. Sending it to the exhibition felt like sending a part of myself.

My husband and I traveled together to France for the opening. It meant the world to me to have his support on this journey. Chazelles-sur-Lyon is only a short drive from Lyon, yet it feels like a world of its own—a town where everything revolves around hats. Historically, it was a global center for felt hat production. In the early 20th century, the town boasted dozens of factories and thousands of artisans. Today, this legacy lives on in the Atelier-Musée du Chapeau, now located in the beautifully restored Fléchet factory, a classified historical monument.

Arriving at the museum on the day of the opening was like stepping into a dream. The event began with a traditional French pantomime performance—an unexpected and emotional way to ease us into the magic of the evening. The museum courtyard was alive with conversation and anticipation, filled with hat lovers, fellow milliners, editors, and creatives from all over the world. There was an immediate sense of belonging, of being surrounded by mind-like people who truly understand the passion, the patience, and the artistry that millinery demands.

As we entered the exhibition space, I was overwhelmed by the care and effort the curators had put into creating such an immersive experience. Each hat was presented not just as an object, but as a story—a piece of art with its own mood and identity. And there, among them, was “Watchful Eye.” Seeing it displayed in this context, among creations by designers from across the world, filled me with quiet pride and awe.

But the true highlight of the evening for me was finally meeting Stephen Jones OBE—the president of the jury, and one of the world’s most iconic and visionary milliners. His work for Dior, John Galliano, and his own atelier has shaped the face of haute couture headwear for decades. For me, he has always been a guiding light.

Years ago, when I was just starting out in Scotland, I was sponsored by The Prince’s Trust as a young creative to begin my journey into millinery. I had been accepted to take a course at Glasgow City College, where one of Stephen’s apprentices was teaching. I was so close—just one place away from the final list. Sadly, I was the one student too many, and didn’t make it into the class. That rejection hurt at the time, but it turned out to be a hidden blessing. I became self-taught, and every technique I learned, every skill I mastered, came from a place of pure determination, imagination, and problem-solving.

And yet, that early story never left me—and to finally meet Stephen Jones in person, shake his hand, and share this journey with him was deeply moving. He listened, smiled, and signed a copy of his newest book for me, which had just launched that evening. Later during the dinner party, I had the chance to chat with him informally, and it felt like something inside me had come full circle. That once-distant dream was now real.

The exhibition also served as a prize ceremony. While I wasn’t among the winners, just being shortlisted felt like a tremendous honor. I was incredibly happy for those who did receive awards—each one of them deserved the recognition for their creativity and craftsmanship. We gathered in the museum’s light-filled rooms, surrounded by centuries of hat-making history, sharing stories, exchanging ideas, and admiring one another’s work. There was no competition in the air—only mutual respect and inspiration.

What stayed with me most was the atmosphere of unity. This wasn’t just a cultural event—it was a heartfelt celebration of a craft that too often flies under the radar. Being part of it, standing among people who speak the same creative language, was energizing and deeply affirming. It reminded me that millinery is not just about making beautiful things. It’s about connection, tradition, and expression.

If you ever have the chance to visit Chazelles-sur-Lyon, especially while L’art et la manière is still running (until November 2, 2025), I wholeheartedly recommend it. Whether you're a designer, a fashion lover, or simply curious, the Atelier-Musée du Chapeau offers an unforgettable experience. Its collection of over 400 hats—ranging from historical to avant-garde—is a true treasure. You’ll leave inspired, just as I did.

This journey has been so special to me — for the hat I created, the people I met, and the memories I carry with me now. I’m grateful for the opportunity and humbled to be part of such a meaningful event.

Thank you, Chazelles-sur-Lyon. And thank you to everyone who continues to believe in the art and manner of the hat.
With love,