The Hats Have It

Fairfield County is inarguably the capitol Yankeedom, but Saturday, May 7, the lawn in front of the Pequot Library in Southport was awash in Southern-style comforts. Mint juleps danced with tea-length skirts under skies that threatened rain. And, as neighbors gathered to watch and celebrate the Kentucky Derby, the fastest two minutes in sports, the hats were the undisputed winners.

“Between the Kentucky Derby and the royal wedding, stores are calling me and saying they’ve never sold so many hats,” says Fairfield milliner Brenda Lynn.

Brenda’s hats are subtler than those you may have seen dotting the trackside Derby crowd. “Ours are geared more toward our Northeastern audience,” says Vincent Giandurco, Brenda’s husband and business partner. “They want something sportier, something softer.”

“But come summertime,” Brenda interjects, “they love the wide brimmed hats.”

Brenda’s hats are hand crafted and subtle. She’s been creating top of the line head toppers for 20 years. “We sell at Barney’s and Saks. These are made from twisted paper and incorporate bright, seasonal colors,” Brenda says, indicating a group of breezy-looking brims.

Brenda had no predictions for a Derby win. She does, however, predict a resurgence in hats as signatures of high style. “With the Derby and the royal wedding falling so close together, and because Kate Middleton is so young and wears hats so well, it’s all tremendously good for the industry.”

How did you wear Derby Day?

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