The British social season is defined by a series of iconic cultural, sporting and society occasions where dress codes, tradition and modern elegance come together. From Royal Ascot and Henley Royal Regatta to Wimbledon, Glyndebourne and Buckingham Palace Garden Parties, each event carries its own styling expectations, and millinery remains at the heart of British occasion dressing.

A multi-award winning British milliner, Rachel Skinner has been designing both ready to wear and bespoke social occasion hats since the 1990s.    Rachel’s designs have been worn by members of the Royal Family, as well as our ever loyal clientele, and Rachel is known among social circles for always helping a customer to find the perfect hat for any occasion. Her attention to detail, bursts of colour, and handcrafted and hand finished hats and fascinators that are both modern and luxurious, while retaining and honoring her traditional millinery training techniques. 

The Rachel Skinner Millinery boutique and studio is based in the Sussex market town of Lewes, which is less than an hour from London by train.  Customers are welcomed by private appointment for bespoke commissions, made-to-order designs and curated ready-to-wear pieces throughout the social season.  Rachel and her team are always happy to help a customer choose the perfect hat to compliment both their individual style and the appropriate dress codes of their upcoming event.

We have designed this guide to answer some of the questions that we most commonly receive about the various events on the British social calendar.  These questions relating to dress codes, choosing a hat and what to expect at each occasion.  You’ll find examples from the RSM collection, as well as photos shared by our amazing customers. 

Please reach out for an appointment, whether you are looking to buy ready to wear or commission bespoke, we are always happy to help.

Rachel x