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THE MILLINERS TALES

As a forerunner to the world's richest horserace, the Dubai World Cup, BurJuman is hosting a millinery exhibition, in conjunction with the Australian Trade Commission, it was announced today.

A stunning collection of exquisite couture hats, headpieces and bridal headwear will be on display at the mall, until tomorrow, giving race-goers the opportunity to find the perfect accessory to complement their race day outfit.

Joining Dubai-based designers Karen Hamilton and Julie Anne Lucas, will be some of Australia's most-renowned milliners, including headwear designer to the stars Louise McDonald, Marilena Romeo, Catherine Grounds and Sabine Pedder.

The designers were available at the mall for a 10-day period, offering fashion headwear advice, displaying some of their beautiful pieces for sale and also creating custom-made headpieces, fascinators and other headwear accessories for race-goers using a variety of materials.

"These milliners are known for their elegance, trend setting designs and fine quality work. Whether it's the subtle and subdued look one is going for or the full flamboyance of the racing season, there is something to suit every taste, making this a must-attend exhibition for anyone looking to step out in style on race day," said Sabina Khandwani, head of research and marketing, BurJuman.

A milliner for 16 years, Louise McDonald began her career in England, making hats for film and television productions. Working in one of London's best costume houses she has produced headwear for world-famous actors including Minnie Driver, Tom Cruise, Jerry Hall, William Hurt, Helena Bonham Carter and Vanessa Redgrave to name a few.

Karen Hamilton specialises in headwear for ladies for both the Melbourne Racing Carnival and the Dubai World Cup. From her workshop in Jumeirah, she has also recently teamed up with a locally-based UK fashion designer and produces bridal headpieces for numerous society weddings in Dubai.

"Getting advised by the calibre of these designers on how to enhance one's World Cup outfit is priceless and in keeping with BurJuman's tradition of providing our discerning customers with an unparalleled shopping experience that they can't get anywhere else in Dubai," added Khandwani.

British designer Louise Harrison, who's stockists include Harrods, Liberty, Fenwick of Bond Street and various other exclusive retailers throughout the United Kingdom, will also be displaying her 'Couture Collection' of luxury hand-made scarves at the mall during this time.

Using silk, chiffon and velour in a wide range of colours, textures and fabrics, Harrison employs a unique blend of techniques such as embroidery, beading and appliqué to create unique one-of-a-kind pieces for stylish women of all ages to wear on special occasions such as the Dubai World Cup.

Fondly described as the "Mad Hatter" of Australia, Marilena Romeo has experienced an unprecedented level of success since her inauguration into the hat world, bagging a top prize at the Milliner Design Awards in 1992 after only one year of production. Leaving a successful career in Public Relations behind, Romeo has since pursued her true vocation and now utilises the traditional skills of hat design to create a glamorous and theatrically-inspired range. Her specialties include racewear, evening and bridal ware.