City Precinct would like to invite you to an event which explores the art of Millinery - the manufacturing and trade of hats and headwear. Join us as we discover the extravagant craft presented and hosted by our very own City Precinct member, Lauren J Ritchie.

Lauren J Ritchie Millinery creates quality hats and headwear from her studio in Manchester Unity Building on Collins Street in the heart of Melbourne. Her pieces reflect a high standard of workmanship with strong and flowing design lines.

Lauren was awarded second place in the 2022 Millinery Australia Design Award with her piece Balancing Act which is current on a national tour to leading headwear storefronts across the country.

Our second speaker, Louise Macdonald is based in Melbourne's iconic Nicholas Building in Swanston Street Louise has been making hats and collaborating with clients and designers for over 25 years. Starting her career in London, UK and working as a costume milliner, Louise is now most known for her exquisite hand sculpted straw hats and headpieces that are suitable for special occasion and some everyday wear. She is one of Australia's leading milliners and was this year inducted into the Millinery Association Of Australia's Hall of Fame. Her hats were featured as part of the National Gallery of Victoria's 200 Years of Australian Fashion exhibition in 2016.

Louise is in demand as a millinery educator and teaches in her studio and around the world through Hat academy online courses and face to face classes in USA, The Netherlands and Ireland.

This is a member only event and places are limited, RSVPs are essential.

We hope to see you there!