Meet Milliner To The Stars Laura Apsit Livens
Anyone who knows me, knows how excited I become when I become introduced to a new Milliner.
Laura Apsit Livens isn't new on the millinery scene although she is very new to me. Since graduating from London’s Central Saint Martins, Laura opened her stunning Mayfair Atelier in April 2014.
I was lucky enough to visit Laura in Mayfair before The Cheltenham Festival. The Atelier is situated in a prime location for all of central London, and is only a minutes walk from Selfridges. The addition of a copper coin covered floor and an infinity mirror, also designed by Laura, gives the studio such a wonderful magical atmosphere. All of Laura' incredible creations are handmade by Laura herself, and inspired by a combination of old couture techniques and modern design.
Laura is fast becoming the go to milliner to the stars and horse racing royalty. With clients ranging from Louis Vuitton, Paloma Faith, Emma Spencer, Rita Ora and the Duchess of Westminster. I was extremely privileged to wear the Cariso, (which can be made in any colour) on Ladies Day at The Cheltenham Festival. It was such a fantastic piece to wear, with the intricate woven detail in all of the hand curled feathers, this headpiece was definitely a head turner and created a huge amount of attention. I just didn't want to take it off!!
Let's Find Out A Little More About Laura.
Milliner - Laura Apsit Livens
Age - 25
Based - Mayfair, London
Laura Apsit Livens graduated from The London College of Fashion with a BA(Hons) in Cordwainers Accessories. During her degree, she also worked with Hat Designer Philip Treacy for two years, and her time there included working on the designs for the royal wedding (April 2011).
Laura is based in Mayfair, London with her own atelier and millinery showroom. She is now working for her own label and is producing her own collections as well as collaborating with other design houses. Most recently with Jewellers Mappin & Webb for an installation on both Regent Street and Bond Street for the Ascot season. Laura has also hand-made pieces of headwear for Louis Vuitton’s l’invitation au voyage campaign. Further collaborations include Hasan Hejazi and Boodles the Jewellers.A star-studded client list includes Paloma Faith, Rita Ora, Jessie J and the Duchess of Westminster. Laura’s pieces have also been featured in Magazines such as Tatler, Vogue, LOVE Magazine, Hello, Schön!, Fault Magazine and WWD.As a Hat Designer and maker, she believes that it is of utmost importance that we do not see couture millinery disappear. Intrinsic to her ethos is the use of modern design with old couture techniques, each piece is hand blocked and individually hand stitched without the use of any machinery to obtain the highest quality finish.
SS15 Collection
The SS15 collection at Laura Apsit Livens is love at first sight. Inspired by the Neapolitan phrase ‘É Iss’ meaning ‘This is it’, the essence of the collection was shaped between a time of vacation and inspiration during Laura’s recent trip to the Amalfi Coast. It is wonderfully romantic, with a predominantly azure colour palette and is influenced by exotic materials. Key pieces include high quality Ecuadorian Panamas, hand blocked matadors and signature cocktail pieces, with a nod to larger brims.
The only dilemma is which one to choose.
My Favourites
Are you interested in a Bespoke Hat by Laura Apsit Livens?
I had a fantastic time meeting Laura and trying on all of her amazing creations, whilst discussing our mutual love / obsession of Miniature Dachshunds.
If you are in London make sure you pay Laura a visit, you are sure to find the perfect hat for any occasion. I may even take Poppy next time. I'm just not quite sure London is ready for her feisty attitude.
(2 – 4 Weeks is normally an ideal length of time to complete a bespoke hat with two consultations and a final fitting. In the run up to Royal Ascot Laura will get extremely busy so please book an appointment in advance to avoid disappointment. But Please remember she always has ready-to-wear in the showroom.)
Laura Apsit Livens
59 Duke Street, Mayfair, W1K 5NR
(0)2074937067
07773467706
Are you the proud owner of a Laura Apsit Livens creation? Do let us know in the comments box below.
With Love
Rebecca
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