Jill Courtemanche Millinery

Fashion

Ranch Ready

FashionJill CourtemancheComment

I recently fell into a rabbit hole of western wear and came out inspired and ready to head to the ranch or at least head out for a night of line dancing with the girls!

A little backstory, my husband and I received an invitation to attend a Western Gala and I had nothing in my closet that was even close to fitting the dress code. What followed was endless texting with my best friend in Texas, hours spent researching outfits online that would feel western while fitting seamlessly into my current wardrobe and of course several cowgirl hat prototypes that felt fun and elevated.

A few of those cowgirl hats made it into production and are now available as part of my current collection. I thought it could be fun to showcase them along with the outfits that inspired them.

Check them out below and let me know what you think!

Classic With a Pop of Red

Hat: Lynette by Jill Courtemanche Millinery

Dress: Sleeveless Fringed Dress by Dolce & Gabbana

Boots: Embellished Cowboy Booties by I.N.C

Bag: Marcie Suede Shoulder Bag by Chloé

Earrings: Diamond & Ruby Briolette Earrings Heirloom by Doyle & Doyle

Bracelet: Trombone Link Bracelet by Doyle & Doyle

Ready to Dance the night away

Hat: Western Laurent by Jill Courtemanche Millinery

Dress: Farah Smocked Mini by Veronica Beard

Boots: Maggie Crème by Miron Crosby

Bag: Merine Denim Quilted Bag by Isabel Marant

Earrings: Croissant Dôme Hoops by Mejuri

The Romantic Cowgirl

Hat: Lynette by Jill Courtemanche Millinery

Dress: Axana Maxi Dress by Ba&sh

Boots: Duerto Ankle Boots by Isabel Marant

Bag: Lou Camera Bag by Saint Laurent

Earrings: Basket Drop Earrings Heirloom by Doyle & Doyle

Ring: Victorian Turquoise & Diamond Ring by Doyle & Doyle

Millinery at FIT, "It's All About The Hat" Exhibit

Fashion, PressJill CourtemancheComment

This is so fun for me, a true full circle moment! I am so thrilled that two of my hats were selected to be included in the new Millinery at FIT, “It’s All About The Hat” Exhibit showing in the Art & Design Gallery, June 15 - July 16, 2023. As a graduate of The Fashion Institute of Technology, it’s really exciting to be included in this amazingly, talented group of 40 alumni milliners.

The exhibit curators, Sarah Mullins, Ellen R. Lynch, Janet Linville and Sandra Walcott chose to include my “Le Profile” hattinator in pink and red and my “Béret à Ruban” mini-beret in black and white stripes in their selection of 60 hats.

Per the FIT website, “Millinery at FIT celebrates the art of hat-making. Since 1944, FIT has nurtured a passion for hats, with students mastering various styles, from fashionable felt hats to exquisite fur pieces. The program includes men's hats, bridal headpieces, and weather-appropriate headwear. In the late 1970s, millinery became a part of FIT's curriculum, led by renowned milliners. This program has boosted the hat-making industry in New York City and nationwide.

Graduates excel as entrepreneurs, designers, and creators of headwear for theater and dance. They are known for crafting exceptional hats for editorial shoots and personal use. This exhibition showcases the talent of over 40 alumni milliners, offering a glimpse into their styles and techniques. Visitors can explore the world of millinery, appreciate craftsmanship, and learn about its rich history and vibrant future.”

If you find yourself in New York city this summer, I encourage you to stop by to have a look and send me a picture!