I established Rebecca Gray Millinery in 2021, and that same year, I was honoured to be recognised as an award-winning milliner, receiving The Worshipful Company of Feltmakers Design Award. Based in South East London, my studio creates bold, evocative headwear inspired by the spectacle of the Circus, the dark beauty of Grimms’ fairytales, and the elegance of vintage fashion—all with a modern twist.
More Than Just a Hat Maker
I am more than just a hat maker – I am a walking advert for my craft. Everywhere I go, my hats draw attention, ignite curiosity, and invite stories to be shared. I don’t just design and make hats; I embody them. As a walking showcase of my creativity, my unique designs turn heads, spark conversations, and attract a crowd, making each hat a bold statement of individuality.
As a passionate advocate for hat-making, I take pride in promoting the culture of hat-wearing. Featured on The British Hat Guild’s social media, I bring not only my craftsmanship but also my dedication to celebrating the artistry and heritage of millinery.
Crafting Interactive, Statement-Making Pieces
Specialising in Top Hats and unique headpieces, my designs blend traditional craftsmanship with mechanical movement, creating interactive pieces that surprise, delight, and captivate. Each hat is crafted to be more than just an accessory; it’s a piece of art that moves with the wearer, sparking conversation and evoking emotion.
Offering a bespoke service, I craft hats for individuals, performers, and anyone who embraces the extraordinary. Since 2022, my work has adorned the performers of the renowned Giffords Circus, and I am thrilled to continue this collaboration for their 2025 production. This partnership reflects the heart of my work: maintaining traditional circus artistry while blending in innovative, contemporary design.
Inspiration and Artistic Journey
My journey began with my final collection during my HNC (2021), which was inspired by the Circus. This theme, deeply rooted in my artistic vision, led me to join the Giffords family and “run away with the Circus.” The energy and vibrancy of the Circus world perfectly align with my creative outlook, allowing me to craft pieces that capture the spectacle, movement, and theatricality the circus embodies.
Hats That Tell Stories
My work is for those who seek more than an accessory – they evoke conversations, and tell their own stories. Crafted with an understanding of anatomical movement, balance, and expression, my pieces are both visually striking and comfortable, ensuring they enhance the wearer’s presence whether on stage, in motion, or in everyday life.
Thank you for exploring Rebecca Gray Millinery. I invite you to discover a world where hats are more than accessories—they are expressive, interactive, and tell a story of their own.