Executive Summary & Key Takeaways:
*The Track-to-Luncheon Secret: A balance of function, fit, and panache.
*On-Site Styling: Matching neutral tones with a wide-brim hat featuring a hunt motif.
*The Perfect Hat in Three Words: “It makes you feel special.”
The Art of Event Millinery: In the Booth with Hats by Katie
During our trip through Kentucky we caught up with Katie, the maker behind Hats by Katie, to look at the craftsmanship and styles that define high-end equine event headwear.
Surrounded by a collection of handmade wide-brim pieces, bespoke fascinators, and horse-themed designs, Katie shared what goes into fitting and crafting pieces for clients attending landmark events.
Fit, Style, and Function: Katie’s Live Fitting
A signature part of custom millinery is ensuring the piece complements the wearer’s stature and attire while holding up throughout a full day at the venue. During our conversation, Katie demonstrated the fit and profile of a wide-brim straw hat featuring a custom equine band detail.
- Structure & Crown Shape: Ensuring proper placement and stability for all-day wear.
- Brim Proportion: Balancing shade and visibility with elegant event styling.
- Artisan Detailing: Incorporating equine motifs, fine bands, and tailored accents.
1. Secrets for the Three-Day & Keeneland
Q: For a guest attending both the Three-Day and Keeneland, what is the secret to choosing a hat that is both comfortable for a long day at the track and elegant enough for a ladies’ luncheon?
Katie: “Well, function, fit, and probably a little bit of panache to it.”
2. On-Site Styling: Neutral Colors & The Hunt Motif
Q: If I arrived here looking to style my outfit with one of your fabulous hats, what might you recommend?
Looking at an outfit with neutral colors, Katie selected a wide-brim straw hat accented with an equestrian hunt motif around the crown.
Katie: “You’ve got good neutral colors… There you go.” > Equine Refined: “Gorgeous. I love the hunt motif here as well.”
3. The Feeling of the Perfect Hat
Q: Describe the feeling of the perfect hat in just three words.
Katie: “It makes you feel special. Just that simple.”
Video Feature: Captured on-site by Michelle Artel for Equine Refined. All video footage and dialogue recorded live during our feature coverage at the Kentucky Horse Park.