General FAQs
Wedding Hats and Fascinators in Winchester
I answer the most common questions about ordering a wedding hat or fascinator from my Winchester studio, including appointments, delivery, materials, fit, and what to expect. If you’re the Mother of the Bride or Mother of the Groom, these FAQs will help you feel confident, properly prepared and beautifully put together for the day. I welcome clients by appointment to my private Rose Garden Studio in Winchester
Next steps: Start with my Wedding Hat Advice if you’re unsure what will suit you. For colour confidence, see Colour and Outfit Matching. If you’re considering commissioning a hat, read Bespoke Consultation Process. To explore designs, view my Bespoke Hat Portfolio or browse Ready-to-Wear. If you’d like a little reassurance before you decide, you may enjoy reading Why Choose Simon. To ask a question or book a private appointment in Winchester, please use my Contact page.
What is Marvellous Millinery?
Marvellous Millinery is my Winchester studio where I create ladies' special-occasion hats, fascinators, and headpieces, both bespoke and ready-to-wear. I focus on traditional craftsmanship and thoughtful design, helping you discover a hat that feels beautifully individual and perfectly suited to your event.
Where is Marvellous Millinery located?
I work from my Rose Garden Studio at 4 Mornington Drive, Dean Lane, Winchester, SO22 5LR, about a mile or so from Winchester city centre. I am located near Waitrose on Stockbridge Road. If you need help finding me, please telephone me, and I will gladly guide you here.
Do I need to make an appointment to visit the studio?
Yes, please. Consultations are by appointment only, so I can focus on you and prepare suitable samples. Same-day appointments may be possible. To arrange, please telephone 07968 337446 or use my website contact form.
Are consultations private?
Absolutely. Consultations are confidential and always one-to-one in my Rose Garden Studio here in Winchester. Only one appointment is scheduled at a time, so you can relax, try on samples, and enjoy complete privacy.
How far in advance should I book my appointment?
Please may I suggest booking at least two to three months before your event, particularly if you want plenty of choice with colours and trims. During peak wedding and Royal Ascot seasons, early booking is essential because availability can become very limited.
What are your payment options?
For bespoke commissions, I ask for a 50% deposit when you place your order, which allows me to obtain the materials needed for your commission and secure the making time in my studio, with the balance payable when you collect your new hat. For either bespoke orders in the studio, or Ready-to-Wear hats bought in person, you may pay by Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, Google Pay, online banking transfer, cheque or cash. For online Ready-to-Wear purchases, I accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
What makes Marvellous Millinery different from other hat designers?
I blend classic British craftsmanship with a contemporary eye for proportion, colour, and finish. Each hat is individually designed and made, with unique trims that give every piece its signature character. Customers often value the friendly, collaborative, creative experience as much as the hat itself. If you’re weighing up your options, you may enjoy reading Why Buy from Simon?
Are there lavatory facilities at the studio?
Sorry, there are no customer toilets available here. The nearest toilet with public access is at Costa Coffee, located near Waitrose at the bottom of Dean Lane, approximately a 5-minute drive or a 10-minute walk away.
Do you create wedding hats for LGBTQ+ weddings and ceremonies?
Yes. I welcome everyone, including LGBTQ+ weddings and ceremonies, and will always use the name and pronouns you provide. Your consultation is private and one-to-one, though you’re welcome to bring a friend or relative if you wish. The studio is fairly compact, so I suggest a maximum of 3 people (plus me). Whether you are getting married yourself, a parent, or a guest, I will help you choose a ready-to-wear piece or design a bespoke hat that perfectly flatters you and complements your outfit and the occasion through careful proportion and precise colour-matching. If you need any adjustments for comfort or accessibility, please let me know in advance, and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
Do you offer hats for 'destination' weddings overseas?
Many couples are choosing to celebrate their weddings away from UK shores, and Marvellous Millinery has an exceptional service and advice for the Mother of the Bride or Mother of the Groom attending such occasions. I have specially sized hat boxes that can be taken onto the plane as 'carry-on' luggage, and I can advise which of the larger hats would be suitable to transport in this way (please check dimensions with your individual airline). Alternatively, smaller perching hats can be packed into a sturdy food container and stowed safely in the centre of your luggage for transport in the hold.
Are your hats suitable for Royal Ascot?
Yes. Many designs meet the Royal Enclosure requirements and are perfect for formal race days. I am happy to advise on current guidelines and help you choose a style that satisfies the dress code, while still expressing your individuality.
I'm going to be a bride myself for the second time - do you have headwear suitable for me to wear at my own wedding?
Certainly! I offer a range of hats and fascinators that are perfect for your second wedding or as a 'mature bride'. My collection features elegant fascinators, bejewelled headpieces and chic perching pillbox hats, all designed to complement a variety of wedding styles. You might consider a whisper of delicate veiling or a posy of pretty floral trims for a softer, romantic look. Each piece is carefully crafted to complement your bridal ensemble without overwhelming it, allowing you to celebrate your special day in style and comfort.
What if I have never worn a hat before?
You are not alone - many clients visiting my Winchester studio are first-time hat wearers. Once you try on a few flattering shapes and feel a well-balanced fit, confidence tends to arrive very quickly. By the end of the consultation, many customers understand how enjoyable it can be to wear the right hat. I explain the most flattering shapes and how I help you feel confident in my Wedding Hat Advice page.
How do you use photography and AI imagery?
I photograph every hat carefully in my studio from multiple angles, so you can see exactly what you are choosing, whether it is a one-of-a-kind Ready-to-Wear hat or a sample design from my bespoke collection. From time to time, I also use AI-assisted lifestyle images to help you imagine how a style might look when worn at a wedding or special occasion. The hats are always real designs, AI lifestyle images are clearly labelled, and you will often see traditional photographs of the real hat on the same page.