Morley College millinery students shine in Lock & Co. Hatters collaboration
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Lock & Co. Hatters, the world’s oldest hat shop, is showcasing a stunning new collection created in collaboration with millinery students from Morley College London.
Located at 6 St. James’s Street, London, Lock & Co. has a rich legacy dating back to 1676 and is known for its long-standing tradition of excellence and craftsmanship.
Morley’s new limited-edition collection showcases the talents of the next generation of milliners – and their dedication to excellence.
The couture hats, now available in-store, were designed and handcrafted by Morley College London students. Each one tells a unique story of artistry and inspiration.
“This collaboration offers our Millinery students a rare opportunity to bridge education and industry — showcasing their work in one of the most prestigious hat shops in the world,” said Vesna Pesic, Senior Lecturer in Fashion. “Blending tradition with emerging talent, this project celebrates the next generation of milliners stepping into the rich legacy of British hat-making.”
Our students designs!
Kate McGinlay – Ombrelle
Instagram: @mak_londonuk
Inspired by a trip to Paris and the glamour of old cinema, Ombrelle evokes memories of actresses elegantly strolling the Champs-Élysées. The piece features a silk tulle-covered headband, a Tasar silk base with silk lining, and a sand-and-black crin percher covered in silk tulle, finished with vintage fringe and taffeta ribbon.
How to wear: Worn tilted to the right and forward, secured with a headband.
Molly Syrett – Venus
Instagram: @molly_syrett
A celestial tribute to the planetary events of 2025, Venus is a celebration of the cosmos. This striking piece is worn on the front left of the head and captures the mystery and wonder of our night skies.
How to wear: Worn elegantly on the front left of the head.
Roberta Cucuzza – Red Kiss
Instagram: @robertacucuzzamillinery
Red Kiss “channels the relaxed warmth of Italian summers”. Featuring hand-block ed sinamay, hand-dyed feathers shaped like an orange slice, and a vintage mother-of-pearl disc, this hat glows with a sunset-inspired palette and effortless elegance.
How to wear: Tipped to one side with a dramatic angle, the brim falls slightly over the forehead.
Kate Thomas – Josette
Instagram: @littlesistermillinery
A luxurious nod to the French Riviera, Josette is a blocked percher-beret adorned with a large, hand-formed soft bow. Crafted in vintage parasisal and duchess satin with ice blue arrow-head smocking and overlaid tulle, this design exudes coastal elegance and summer sophistication.
How to wear: Worn to the right, secured with an Alice band and elastic.
Victoria Fitzgerald – Nostalgia
Instagram: @victrav
Inspired by the nostalgia rose, Nostalgia is a romantic sinamay saucer trimmed with handmade, hand-painted silk roses. The piece transitions in colour from creamy white to vibrant tones, echoing the bloom it represents.
How to wear: Positioned at a sharp angle on the right side, held in place with a comb and elastic.
Sophie Dixon Smith – LIBBY
Instagram: @sophiedixonsmithmillinery
Named in honour of tutor Libby Ashdown, LIBBY draws on the elegance of vintage passementerie. Crafted from taupe straw and adorned with Liberty print silk flowers, it’s a heartfelt homage to family and craftsmanship.
How to wear: Styled low over the left eye for a romantic, nostalgic finish.
A celebration of talent and tradition
Morley College London is proud to partner with Lock & Co. Hatters on this exclusive collection. Congratulations to all of the students involved, spectacular work!
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the collection in-store or explore our millinery courses here!
Visit the Lock & Co. Hatters website here!
