As the annual hatfest at Royal Ascot wows us again, Shannon Peters as Catherine Hart, who owns a thriving hat business, for some helpful tips on choosing the perfect hat

WHAT do you love about your job?

I love the personal touch, being able to spend time with my customers in the privacy of my small workshop, which was converted from the old blacksmith's barn beside the house .

Where do your clients come from?

All over, including a lovely lady from Melbourne who orders a hat for the Melbourne races every year. One of my most difficult pieces was for a long-standing customer. I made pearl-encrusted, ten-petal hat, with each petal individual wired. It looked amazing.

Can you tell us any strange facts about millinery?

The word milliner comes from the 14th Century. Hat makers in Milan were so good at their job they become known as milliners (from Milan).

What is fashionable this season?

There seems to be a vintage vibe, elegant with a little quirk. My clients are looking for something that is individual and unique.

Have fascinators had their day?

Fascinators are changing. The ladies who come to me are looking for something different; a structured headpiece is very popular.

How important is the hairstyle you choose to the hat you buy?

It is very important that your hair is right with the hat. I recommend that you take your hat or headpiece to your hairdresser to do your hair on the day. The wrong hairstyle can spoil the whole effect. I do discuss hairstyles with my clients. It’s no good making a hat for somebody if it doesn't flatter them.

What are your main tips when choosing a hat?

Take your time when choosing and don't be swayed by impulse. Think about what you feel confident wearing; a hat must not swamp you or be too small or you will feel uncomfortable and not enjoy wear your crowning glory. I always ask my clients to bring along their outfit if they can, or to bring a photograph of it. I often have clients who are having their outfits made elsewhere, so an overall image is important. The best thing is if my client can put her outfit on and try as many different styles with it as possible. You'll be amazed by what you sometimes go for!

Are you a race-goer? What will you be wearing to Ladies’ Day this year?

I love the races. Last year I got the chance to really dress up as I helped to judge the best-dressed ladies at Catterick and Sedgefield Races together with Richard Bland from BePremier Hair, in Darlington. For the past few years on Royal Ascot Ladies' Day, I have been at Crathorne Hall for a charity ladies' afternoon tea in aid of We Can Dance, a local charity that raises money for dance lessons for disabled children. It’s a wonderful charity. Every penny raised goes to the children and the charity supports eight local schools. I have a stand with all my hats, ladies can hire the hats for the afternoon at a special price and I donate the proceeds to the charity.

  • Catherine Hart Hats, Foxton Farm, Foxton, Sedgefield, County Durham, TS21 2HX. T: 07837-126-472; catherineharthats.co.uk