With the second staging of the Diamond Mile slated for Saturday, December 10, you’ll understand our absolute joy upon spotting the headwear of self-taught milliner Karl Brown for Khalil’s Hatitude on the runway at La Hot Couture fashion showcase. The collection, worn by the elite models of Saint International, featured an eclectic fusion of colours and styles. “I am inspired by shades and elements of nature,” Brown told All Woman Fashion (AWF), “and I bring my pieces to life using fabrics reminiscent of these.” Though not formally trained — perhaps that’s why his collection piques such interest — the designer was inspired six years ago by a woman whom he spotted at his church’s convention in Chicago, USA. “She was wearing,” he explained, “the most gorgeous hat ever.” They would meet a few days later at a booth where she sold hats. “I offered to accessorise one of them… 10 minutes later, it was sold!”

Brown returned home with three of the hats and put out a casual Facebook post titled “coming soon”. The response was immediate and in short order his business grew, this after sourcing a sewing machine. Six years later, Brown operates a successful business from his home in Portmore, St Catherine, and his hats have found favour with fashionistas locally and internationally.AW Fashion suggests you put in your order TODAY! The milliner can be contacted atkhalilshatitude@yahoo.com or 862-8081.