Judy Bentinck

Judy Bentinck is a traditional couture milliner making 21st Century hats.

At school she was an artist, at uni in Liverpool she studied printed textiles. She spent many years designing and making theatre and film costumes, for the RSC, the BBC and the Royal Opera House, but she made her first hat while teaching costume design at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

She went to train with Rose Cory - Royal Warrant Holder and world renowned teacher. Rose is almost the only person left who knows the old traditional millinery techniques. It was an apprenticeship.

Judy set up her own label in 2002. Originally named "Portland Hats", in 2004 she rebranded as "Judy Bentinck".

Judy designs two collections a year, but the majority of her work involves individual commissions that match you and your outfit to the occasion - from Ascot to Annabel's, wedding to wakes, the hat or headpiece is carefully designed, taking into account your bone-structure, colouring and personality.

Judy lives in London with her actor husband Tim Bentinck,
and their two sons Will and Jasper.