Gigi Burris knows hats. A born-and-bred Floridian trained at Parsons the New School for Design, Burris turned her passion for the age-old art of millinery into a full-time career, launching her line of couture hats in 2010. Although she’s now Manhattan-based, Burris’s career and identity are rooted in the South. She sources many of her decorative materials from the wild – everything from blue-winged teal feathers from her father’s Florida hunting escapades to gator skins from the swamps of the South.
A portrait of Gigi; a photo of Gigi’s White Garden Mohawk bridal headpiece.
“Southerners have a respect for millinery because of our appreciation for heritage and history,” Burris says. That respect will be readily apparent at this weekend’s Kentucky Derby. “The beautiful hats at the Derby are great examples of the glamour of a bygone era,” Burris says. “It’s one of the only events where we’re invited to bring that glamour back.”
Gigi at work in her Manhattan studio.
In honor of this weekend’s Run for the Roses, we asked Burris to give us her top ten picks for men’s and women’s Derby-worthy hats. But first a little advice: “Do not, for the love of God, decorate your hat with toy horses.” Apparently, that happened. Sorry we missed it.
“My own Derby Day edition is named the Julep. It’s a classic race hat with a twist of frayed edging and raw sheer organza and grosgrain trim.” gigiburris.com
1 of 10
“The cotton-dobby trimmed Trilby hat from Rag and Bone is perfect paired with a seersucker suit.” mrporter.com
2 of 10
Final-Hat
“Philip Treacy is a splurge, but he is one of the most talented milliners of our day. This hat, named Lattice Slice with Rose, is sure to wow the crowd.” goldcoastcouture.com
3 of 10
“The New Orleans Roll Brim hat from Barbisio is a casual but high-style headpiece.” barneys.com
4 of 10
Striped-Boater
“My Striped Straw Boater hat packs a punch for those who are looking for something a bit more minimal.” gigiburris.com
5 of 10
“Borsalino hats are well-crafted and timeless. This is the little black dress of men’s hats, one that you’ll wear over and over again.” yoox.com
6 of 10
“Fascinators have become more popular in the U.S. since the Royal Wedding last summer. This Fancy Flower Fascinator from Nigel Rayment is fun and afforable.” goldcoastcouture.com
7 of 10
“David Steele makes hats with a bit of an edge. This straw style with the vintage ombre grosgrain band is youthful and festive.” davidsteelenyc.com
8 of 10
“The Tumbleweed Rafia Cloche from Lola is a low-key but meticulously detailed hat for the girl-next-door.” saksfifthavenue.com
9 of 10
“The Vintage Paper Straw hat from Paul Smith has a simple silhouette, but the floral fabric band adds a little summertime flair.” saksfifthavenue.com
10 of 10
