Hats off for weddings as restrictions lift

As couples celebrate the return of indoor weddings in Northern Ireland, one Co Antrim milliner is doffing her hat to the easing of coronavirus restrictions.

The Stormont executive agreed that weddings can take place indoors from Friday, July 10 in line with social distancing and Government guidelines.

And, for Fiona McToal, owner of Fee McToal Millinery in Bushmills, it means customers are returning to her shop delighted with new dates for their children’s big days – many had been postponed due to the pandemic.

The award-winning hat maker is busy with her ribbons and bows, satins and silks designing and fitting hats for mothers and fathers of brides and grooms.

And she reveals post lockdown trends are understated elegance with a classic 1940s vibe.

Things are different post-lockdown and it’s mostly hats off with guidelines in place for donning the designs. New arrangements include disposable shower caps in order to prevent spreading coronavirus when trying on head pieces.

Hat design is coming out of lockdown with an emphasis on sedate styles, reflecting smaller, intimate gatherings for couples.

Classical lines and less extravagant designs are being sought for wedding parties, says Ms McToal.

She continued: “I have been receiving most inquiries from mums looking for a hat to wear for their daughter or son’s big day. With lockdown easing I’m seeing the return of classical and iconic hat styles that remind me of 1940s wartime.”

With new designs Ms McToal is enjoying the creative challenges and is feeling inspired with reopening and the lifting of the restrictions.

Sewing has been in the milliner’s family for generations and she has spent the time over lockdown creating new lines, looks and brands.

She added: “I do love a wedding and I’m loving hearing about the wedding plans from the mums excited about a post-lockdown big day.

“Things have dramatically changed in the last few months, so it’s a really wonderful time to see the return of indoor weddings and civil partnerships.

“No matter what happens in life, love and weddings will always endure.

“And where there’s a wedding, there’s always someone buying a hat.”

www.feemctoalmillinery.com

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