Header photo: Fine art portrait by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery, photographer Salli Gainsford, assistant Tony Lane, model Sarah King and make-up artist Lynee Wells 

We love shining the limelight on fabulous creatives in the PurplePort community and sharing their unique journeys and creative processes.

In this episode of FEATURED, we interviewed a superb PurplePort designer, Jayne Elizabeth Millinery, based in Oxfordshire, UK.

Bespoke Millinery by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

Top Hat by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

About PurplePort designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery

Jayne is a passionate designer and stylist who specialises in millinery. She offers bespoke commissions for prestigious occasions, including Royal Ascot, Henley Regatta, red carpet events, fashion shows, bridal and weddings.

She also has an exceptional selection of headwear, The Taboo Couture Range, that is available for hire for photoshoots. 

Jayne's exceptional work has been showcased in magazines and fashion editorials and featured in exhibitions, catwalk shows, and photoshoots (the latter of which she has much experience working on set as a stylist).

Tea Party by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

Born in Torquay, Devon, Jayne has always been interested in fashion. From as early as she can remember, she enjoyed making things (using fabrics, leather, metal, cutting garments and costume jewellery) and upcycling them into new creations.

Moving to London in the 1990s to pursue her career in fashion, Jane studied Fashion Design at The London College of Fashion, where she specialised in Millinery. 

After graduating, she worked in fashion retail, design and production with a particular focus on bridal wear and predominantly millinery, as well as working and studying costume design and theatrical millinery.

Jayne spent ten years working for couture society milliner, Eda Rose, producing collections for renowned stores (including Harrods and Selfridges), and creating bespoke designs for client commissions.

Image by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

Since 2005, Jayne has run her business label, Jayne Elizabeth Millinery, from her studio in Oxfordshire. All of her creations are entirely handmade and finished by hand. It's no surprise that her brand, Jayne Elizabeth Millinery, is synonymous with high-quality craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and originality. 

Jayne is exceptionally passionate about millinery and considers it an art form: a fusion of fashion, sculpture and art. She loves the variety of projects and challenges with hat-making, giving each project she undertakes total attention to detail. 

Focus on Fire by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

FEATURED Interview with PurplePort designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery

How did you become a designer?

I've always had a strong interest in the creative arts from as early as I can remember, so designing and creating is just something that naturally comes to me.

I've designed and made clothes, accessories and headwear from as early as I can remember!

What did you do before becoming a designer?

I've always been a designer, but have often had various other 'regular jobs' to supplement my income, alongside the creative side.

What was the first photoshoot you worked on as a designer?

My first photo shoot was Baroque Dolls. I was approached via one of the local Creative FB pages by photographer Norbert Pietraszek.

I was absolutely thrilled to be involved and also a little nervous. Being part of the team was extremely exciting, and seeing how the whole " look" was created backstage was a fascinating experience. It definitely sparked my interest to do more photo shoots!

 

Baroque Dolls by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery, photographer Norbert Pietraszek, hair stylist and make-up artist Anne Veck, clothing by Lyndsey Clark Boutique, and models Victoria Rose Evans and Manon Mellen 

How do you prepare for your photoshoots?

Pre-shoot preparation is always very hands-on and time-consuming for me. I'm a perfectionist, so I spend lots of time sourcing the right team members for the project, models, competent hair and makeup artists, suitable photographer, etc.

As the stylist, I also always ensure that everyone is well briefed and clear on the type of vibe we are after for the day of the shoot. Attention to detail is imperative, so all the outfits, accessories and millinery are meticulously checked over.

I often host shoots and events at my home studio in Oxfordshire. I love people to feel relaxed and welcome and ultimately enjoy the day. I will often be baking before to look after everyone!

What style of photoshoot do you enjoy working on the most?

I love working on fashion shoots, especially something a bit different that fires my brain up.

Fierce by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery (Couture Gothic Head Piece from Jayne's 'Fragmentation' Collection), photographer Ian Wallman, clothing designer Jon Harris (copper corset and boots) and model Wowski Iga

What's the most interesting photoshoot you've ever worked on?

I've got far too many favourite shoots to select just one.

What do you most enjoy about being a designer, and what would you describe as your main strengths?

As a designer/stylist, I really enjoy the challenges of coming up with new designs and concepts for shoots.

My main strength is most definitely attention to detail.

What's your absolute favourite photo?

My favourite image is Elements of Gold, with a striking model and gold neckpiece. I worked with my photographer friend, Naveen Zarub, for this particular concept.

The concept was to create a stunning simple but striking beauty image. I particularly love the contrast between the model's beautiful skin tones and gold neckpiece, which I created especially for this shoot. 

The image is still one of my favourite images and has been featured as part of an editorial feature in Black Beauty and Hair Magazine. We also had the image nominated to get featured on a poster in London.

Elements Of Gold by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery and photographer Naveen Zarub 

Is there anyone in particular who inspires you?

My inspiration comes from all sorts of areas, not one particular person.

What advice would you give to a designer just starting out?

Yes – NEVER give up on what makes you happy! If creativity is in your blood, find a way to keep doing it, even if you have a regular job to supplement your income.

One final question. Pineapple on pizza, yes or no?

Pineapple! Definitely A YES from me.

Image by designer Jayne Elizabeth Millinery 

Thanks again for speaking with us and sharing your creative journey, Jayne Elizabeth Millinery.

We hope you all enjoyed this interview. Check out the links below to see more of Jayne's gorgeous work!

Here's where you can find more of Jayne's work

PurplePort: Jayne Elizabeth Millinery

Website: www.jemillinery.co.uk

Facebook: Jayne Elizabeth Millinery

Instagram: jayne.elizabeth.millinery

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