About Fab Hats and Ulka

A lover of hats, Ulka learnt traditional millinery techniques at the Hat Works in Stockport. She set up Fab Hats in 2018 and works from a studio in her home in Greater Manchester.

Ulka loves working with a variety of colours and materials to create unique stylish hats and fascinators using a combination of traditional and modern methods. She works with customers through her bespoke service to create hats and fascinators that truly complete their outfits.

As a vegetarian, she doesn’t use fur or leather in her millinery and the sourcing of ethical materials is important to her.

Ulka keeps herself up-to-date through membership of the British Millinery Association, online training with other milliners, and subscriptions to millinery magazines. She’s also a member of a Magic Milliners group that meets regularly to share knowledge, techniques and ideas. She finds inspiration from many sources, such as the arts, architecture and nature.

Bespoke Service

It can take 6 to 8 weeks to complete a hat so don’t leave it too late to get in touch, especially if you’re a busy person. If you want a hat for a specific occasion, it’s usual to choose your outfit first. 

Our most popular options are:

• Hat style session – wear your outfit and try on various hats/fascinators to see which styles suit you best and what you’ll feel comfortable wearing for your occasion

• Complete design service – advice on what type of hat/fascinator will complete your outfit, colours, sketches of design ideas, sourcing and selection of materials.

What to expect:

• A typical first appointment includes taking head measurements, discussing your outfit and/or the occasion (if applicable), your likes and dislikes (in terms of colours, materials, styles), your budget, it can also incorporate the hat style session

• Once a design is agreed upon, a quote will be given (this may be a range to allow for flexibility of placement and number of trimmings), a timescale and payment terms will be discussed, hat fittings will need to be arranged

• Where possible, recycled materials will be sourced for customers who wish to minimise the negative impact on the planet (it should be noted that longer lead in times may be necessary) 

• For bridal/bridesmaid combs, your colour schemes will be incorporated into the design.

Bespoke Service Pricing

Our bespoke service pricing is a unique approach to crafting personalised experiences that seamlessly blend the expertise of the milliner with the individual preferences of the customer. The pricing structure for our bespoke services is comprehensive, encompassing various elements crucial to the creation of a one-of-a-kind product. Material costs, representing the quality and uniqueness of the chosen components, are factored in alongside labour costs, reflecting the skilled craftsmanship invested in the creation process. The design concept, a pivotal aspect of the collaboration, is also included in the pricing, acknowledging the creative input and vision brought forth by both the artisan and the client. Furthermore, attributable overhead costs are transparently incorporated, ensuring a fair and sustainable arrangement that values the artistry and dedication inherent in the bespoke service. In essence, bespoke service pricing reflects not just a financial transaction, but a shared commitment to craftsmanship and individual expression.