With SkyCity Hamilton Waikato Cup Day just around the corner, and with it, the adashiko Fashion Stakes - WTR's only chance to qualify for the prestigious The Ned Prix de Fashion at Ellerslie on Champions Day, we thought it timely to have a chat to not just the Waikato's but arguably one of New Zealand's most successful milliners, Monika Neuhauser.
Where in the Waikato are you based?
My studio is located in Pirongia, south of Hamilton.
Do you get a chance to go racing much?
I try and make it oncourse to the big days at both Te Rapa and Ellerslie. However, more often than not work keeps me busy in the studio around the racing season. Sadly!
How did you get into millinery?
Quite by "accident" actually. I was invited to the races and couldn't find anything suitable or that appealed in the shops. I took to Google, made something for myself and I haven't stopped since! Since that original Google endeavour I have done extensive learning in the art of millinery. It's something I still do - I firmly believe there's always something new to add to the tool kit.
What do you love about creating hats?
It combines my love of creating, designing and fashion. I pride myself on not often repeating a design - the variety is what keeps it interesting.
What are some of your proudest millinery moments?
Well, over the years there were highlights of best dressed at the Flemington for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the Dubai Stylestakes, best Hat at Dubai and of course the hat Jacinda Ardern wore at the funeral of Elizabeth II. I also love creating for the theatre, e.g. Alice in Wonderland.
How do you keep your millinery fresh and on trend?
I love watching fashion, and I keep an eye on each designers runway looks every season. I also like discovering new or old (vintage is just as inspiring) materials.
What’s your favourite hat-type to wear to the races?
Personally I love the versatility and simplicity of a beret and beret shapes. I also like wearing vintage millinery.
What's the one piece of advice you’d give the women entering the adashiko Style Stakes on Sat 14 Dec at Te Rapa?
Most importantly, wear what makes you feel comfortable. Stay away from designs that make you self conscious or fidgeting with the placement. But also don't be too afraid to take a little risk.
Be you! Confidence and a bit of fashion forward thinking are always a good combo.
One person you’d love to see wearing your millinery?
Oohh..that's a hard one. I actually can't say. Obviously one's ego gets a kick out of bespoke millinery worn by well known people, but I simply love when a customer wears one of my hats and does well in fashions on the field, or has a lovely time at a wedding.
Trends you’re expecting to see oncourse this season?
We are still seeing the oversized fedoras, but other wide brim shapes are also getting worn a bit more. Contrasting to that we will see more brimless pieces (called toque). Those have been spotted on runways and I think they go really well with suits for example. And a good vintage shape for those who like different or quirky are always a winner in my books.
Thank you to Monika for taking the time to speak with us ahead of SkyCity Hamilton Waikato Cup Day.
Feeling inspired? You too can enter the adashiko Style Stakes - snap up one of our last GA tickets to join in the fun!