Reed Crawford was a British hat maker during the 1950/60s. His style of hats matched the subculture of London during the 60s. He designed with unusual materials and styles, creating new types of hats. Alison Adburgham compared his 1964 autumn/winter collection to those seen in pantomimes, calling him a milliner of “outrageous convictions.” This hat must be an example of one she found acceptable.

From the collection of Alison Adburgham. Adburgham was fashion editor for The Guardian between 1954 and 1973. She was their first official fashion editor during a time when fashion journalism was first emerging. She was known for her sharp writing and blistering critiques. She was a vocal advocate for women’s expression and for understanding the intelligence of fashion – not just frippery or novelty, but art and statement. She moved to Cornwall after her retirement.