ABOUT JUDY
Portrait photography by Daniel Murtagh
"I believe that there is a hat to suit every woman- if you think hats are not for you, then you simply haven't found the right style!"
The right hat for every occasion
Attending a special or formal occasion is an exciting but sometimes daunting prospect.
Wearing a hat that's perfect can help to instill radiant confidence and poise, so you can focus on enjoying the event.
Judy Bentinck's clients attend events as diverse as royal garden parties, investitures, race days and weddings. Her hat designs are both creative and accessible, and with over 18 years' experience in creating special occasion headwear, Judy can provide expert advice and complement your chosen outfit for the day.
Of a warm and caring nature, Judy will put you at ease to ensure your hat-buying experience is pleasant.
Whether it's one of Judy's existing designs or a bespoke piece, she will work with you to ensure your hat is just right for you, and appropriate to the special occasion you are attending.
From theatre costume design to couture millinery
With a background in Textile design and an initial career in theatre costume design, Judy trained in the craft of millinery with Rose Cory, who was the Queen Mother's own milliner. With Rose she learned the secrets of traditional couture millinery, gaining an appreciation for true craftsmanship, well-balanced design and exquisite detailing.
With this expertise, Judy established her eponymous brand at Cockpit Arts studios in central London, where she has built a loyal and ever-increasing following since 2002. Clients include celebrities such as Clare Balding, Amanda Redman, and Jenny Agutter and members of the aristocracy. Countess Bathurst was resplendent at her inauguration as High Sherriff of Gloucestershire. See her hat and other client testimonials here.
Judy has also collaborated with fashion designers during London Fashion Week’s catwalk show, and PR companies to produce unique creations for Royal Ascot Ladies’ day.
Judy's design inspiration is all-embracing from natural forms through floral motifs, architecture, historical references to mythical tales and mathematics.
Passing on Judy's millinery expertise
Judy teaches millinery skills at Central St Martin's University of the Arts London, and has recently demonstrated at the British Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Museum of London.
Millinery courses by Judy run regularly in her Cockpit Arts studio. Please see here for the latest dates.
Judy 's book "Designing and Making Hats and Headpieces" was published recently, and is available on Amazon. See it here.
