Fashion Show at Sheraton Universal

May 10 I helped put on a fashion show for St. Joseph's Medical Center Benefit. The theme was Kentucky Derby Day, so lots of the women wore hats including me. The fashion producer, Lucienda Meidema, did a great job with the CARLISLE fashions. The opening scene was done to the music of "Ascot Opening Day" from "My Fair Lady" with the models in five CARLISLE black and white outfits and hats striking poses to the music.

The hats in the fashion show were from Lynn Frances Millinery. She can customize a hat to go with any special occasion outfit. So if you have an outdoor wedding, afternoon tea, or trip to the Ascot races, she is your resource. www.lynfrances.com or phone 866-lynfrances.

More Hat Resources

This week I went to the Pasadena Playhouse to see "Crowns". The stars of this musical were the hats worn by African American women. In the adjoining gift shop was a wonderful vendor of truely elegant fashion hats priced at $200 and up. During the run of the show the hats will be available at the Playhouse before and after the shows.

Check out http://www.louisegreen.com/ to see her selections, Louise's impressive background, and the great video clip from "Desparate Housewives".

Should you want a simple inexpensive hat visit Jann Webb at the Brentwood Farmers Market on Sundays and the La Canada Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. I bought large brimmed hat that I wear at the beach for $40.

Why Wear A Hat

There are many reasons to wear at hat.

The number one reason to wear a hat is sun protection. Many hats state that they have UV protection, but you'll at least want one that is closely woven to prevent rays from penetrating. I like ones with broad brims that shade my neck. Really broad brims even protect my shoulders when sunbathing. If you will be hiking or doing an active outdoor activity consider one that ties around the chin. Your hat will not only protect your skin, but keep your hair from sun damage and dryness.

The other great reason is glamour. Of course we've admired extravagant hats at events like the Kentucky Derby, but even a simple hat can add glamour to any woman's outfit. On a bad hair day I wear a hat, and I get all these compliments. I have to control myself not to say, "Thank you but actually I did not have time to style my hair today".

Lastly, I hear women say I do not look good in hats. My response is you simply have not found the style that best suits you. Just start trying them on.

Google "women's hats". The above image is from www.coolibar.com which specializes is sun protection.