If you need anything in the realms of hats and millinery, I would have to call out Lou Lou Puchalka as your first port of call. A lot of the creations look well suited to bridal and wedding affairs, but in terms of quality, this place has to be up there amongst the best. The shop itself, and the offerings, are exquisite. They're all handmade with exceptional skill.
I've longed -- for aaaaages -- to buy one of the parasols, just because. They're totally gorgeous, Victorian-style creations, that are so delicate and beautiful. You couldn't exactly walk around casually with one (and you'd have to wait for that one week of sunshine that we get) but for that week you'd walk about town feeling a million bucks for sure. (Well, maybe 100 000 bucks, since you'd be looking of the olden days.)
It's not just hats and fascinators, though -- there are accessories and other little bits to choose from as well. Basically, if you've any occasion that requires something a little bit special, do not go to Debenhams. Forget House of Fraser. Wander into the Corn Exchange and have a chat with the lovely lady that owns Lou Lou Puchalka -- her work is beautiful. Be it the races, a wedding, or some kind of ball/awards ceremony, this is the place you will find the pièce de résistance. read more