January usually sees the return of many a good intention, this one being no different. However, there was plenty of talk about implementing changes gradually rather than opting for an overwhelming enforced regime. This way of thinking provided a gentler start to the new year, a much kinder way for a small business owner wearing a variety of hats!
The very first part of the month was so crisp and bright… we didn’t know what was around the corner…
Stormy weather became the norm which in turn brought about a very unwelcome element of gloom and doom. It was time to reach out for my little book of gratitude in hope to boost the mood.
I wore my new headwear design, a bold beautiful beret, handblocked on one of my favourite vintage hat blocks to the Annual Growth Community Awards. The mid-month celebration had long been a diary date for our members from far and wide. I was both sponsoring and presenting an award that I was so humbled to have won the previous year. I was also one of six finalists for Member of the Year. We, the selected six, were asked by Nicky, the founder of the Growth Community to stand up in a very full room of people. It was a very special moment for me. Our Barnsley group achieved Highly Commended.
There are fifteen Growth Community groups across Yorkshire, Humber, Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
Recent hat trends indicate an emphasis on the wearability of a hat style, favouring clean, simple lines, making the quality of the fabric as important as ever. The comfort of accessories has changed so much over recent years, with the addition of easy footwear playing a prominent role as casual fashion continues to dominate.
A wise choice for my new hat design for such an event.
No doubt special occasion hats for weddings and the races will continue to push the boundaries at times, but these new predictions could influence the way in which we express our hat wearing days. Time will tell.
P.S
Here is a poem about the making of my beautiful bold beret.
My Beautiful Bold Beret
Under my belt
With a peach bloom felt
So lovely to feel
Like a baby’s soft heel
My beautiful bold beret
It arrived like a cape
Which I had to reshape
I was all gleaming
With the steaming
My beautiful bold beret
I wear it with pride
Always to the side
I know I won’t part
With my new piece of art
My beautiful bold beret
Sherry Richardson