Stephen Jones, a renowned milliner, is currently being celebrated with a comprehensive exhibition featuring over 400 of his works, 170 of which are hats. The exhibition showcases Jones’s talent and creativity through various fashion looks by leading designers, preparatory sketches, early photographs, show invitations, and personal memorabilia. Jones, now 67, has crafted a wide array of hat styles over the years, including caps, crowns, berets, tricornes, visors, and more, each reflecting his unique design aesthetic. Visitors to the exhibition are greeted with a pair of rugby hats that belonged to Jones’s father, symbolizing his early connection to fashion and the beginning of his millinery career.
Over two visits to the exhibition, visitors witness the diverse and artistic nature of Jones’s creations. From intricate and elaborate designs to whimsical and surrealistic pieces, Jones’s hats are a reflection of his ever-evolving style and creativity. The exhibition avoids the label of “retrospective,” as Jones’s work is more akin to an autobiography told through his extraordinary hat designs. One notable piece features a peanut butter and jelly sandwich recreated in beads and draped atop a headband, showcasing Jones’s playful and innovative approach to millinery.
Jones’s journey into the world of fashion and millinery began in his youth near Liverpool when he considered playing rugby like his father. However, after being inspired by an exhibition on Charles James at the Victoria & Albert Museum, Jones pursued a career in fashion and eventually landed at Saint Martin’s School of Art. His decision to study millinery came after witnessing a group of girls in beige knitwear and three punks, leading him to choose the latter path. Under the guidance of instructor Shirley Hex, Jones honed his skills and developed his own unique style, ultimately finding success in the world of high fashion.
One of Jones’s early accomplishments was his diploma collection at Saint Martin’s School of Art, worn by model Jane Leonard in 1979. This collection, along with other key moments in Jones’s career, is showcased in the exhibition as a testament to his talent and influence in the world of millinery. Jones’s artistic vision and dedication to his craft have earned him a reputation as one of the most innovative and respected milliners of his generation. Through his hats, Jones has been able to convey stories, emotions, and experiences, creating a lasting legacy in the world of fashion.
The exhibition at Palais Galliera offers a rare glimpse into the world of Stephen Jones, showcasing the breadth and depth of his work over the years. From his early beginnings in Liverpool to his studies at Saint Martin’s School of Art and his rise to prominence in the fashion industry, Jones’s journey is a testament to his talent and passion for millinery. Visitors to the exhibition are invited to explore the intricate details and artistic nuances of Jones’s hats, each piece telling a unique story and reflecting his creative vision. Jones’s ability to transform a simple hat into a work of art is evident throughout the exhibition, solidifying his status as a master milliner.
