High Sheriff Hat
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Today I have just finished making a hat for next years High Sheriff ceremonial role in East Yorkshire which starts in April.
This is the 4th time I have made a ladies high sheriff hat and am aware of all the traditions and requirements needed for a hat like this.
We decide on the shape of the crown and brim separately. The colour usually matches/tones with the velvet used in making the skirt suit.
If the lady is taller, a slightly bigger brim can be used but still not so big that the face is in shade or covered. This means the brim usually turns up at one side. See the couture section in the online shop.
I cover the crown using the same velvet as the suit and either a single large ostrich feather or a couple of neatly cut ostrich feathers in white to match the lace collar are stitched onto the front of the hat. Sometimes a button identical to the coat or shoe button is stitched onto the front of the feather.
The high sherrif represents the queen at many civic functions around the county and is often in attendance if royalty do visit throughout their 12 month tenure.
This hat is worn on many occasions throughout the 12 months so I always ensure it is of the highest quality and structure to withstand repeated wear and still looks as good at the end of their year in term.