Welcome to Ili Hats, a bespoke millinery service nestled in the heart of Morpeth, where each creation tells a story of artistry, craftsmanship, and a journey that spans continents.

I'm Iliana, the founder and creative force behind Ili Hats, and I'm thrilled to share a glimpse into the tapestry of my life that weaves seamlessly into the fabric of each meticulously crafted hat.

Originally from Bulgaria, I embarked on a transformative journey to the UK in 2010. From the enchanting landscapes of the South West of Scotland to the picturesque town of Morpeth, Northumberland, my path unfolded in unexpected yet beautifully diverse ways.

My academic background is rooted in Industrial Engineering, with a graduation from the Technical University of Gabrovo in 2002. Seeking to enrich my knowledge, I pursued a master's degree in Accounting and Finance, setting the stage for a dynamic career that traversed financial landscapes in both Bulgaria and Scotland.

The move to England brought new responsibilities, and I embraced flexible opportunities in the hospitality sector to nurture and care for my children. Alongside, I've also managed a small domestic cleaning business in Northumberland, a facet of my life that adds a unique perspective and practical grounding to the artistic realm of millinery.

But let's delve into the passion that truly fuels Ili Hats. Since childhood, my love for drawing and creation was fostered by my grandmother, a skilled seamstress. Hours spent on her sewing machine crafting clothes for my dolls ignited a creative flame that has burned brightly ever since. The dream of becoming a fashion designer lingered, and it found its expression in the rich tradition of British hat making.

In 2019, I took the plunge to pursue my dream. I sought guidance from a local master milliner in Newcastle upon Tyne before delving into online courses with renowned milliners worldwide. Louise Macdonald, Liza Stedman, Rebecca Share, Ian Bennet, and Carol Maher became my mentors, shaping my skills and perspective.

A pivotal moment came in 2021 when I traveled to Madrid for comprehensive millinery training with Biliana Borissova, focusing on felt, leather, and textile techniques. My passion for drawing on silk transformed into creating silk flowers through one-on-one lessons with Svetlana Faulkner, exploring the Japanese craft of "somebana" – hand-painted silk flowers. These exquisite blooms often grace my hats and accessories, adding a touch of drama inspired by nature's wonders.

At Ili Hats, each piece is a testament to traditional hat-making techniques harmoniously blended with contemporary design. Every hat is entirely handmade and hand-blocked, using fine materials sourced from suppliers across the UK, Europe, Australia, and the USA.

Inspired by the beauty of flora, fauna, colours, shapes, and textures in nature, I invite you to explore the world of Ili Hats, where craftsmanship meets creativity, and each hat is a unique work of art. Thank you for considering Ili Hats – a journey in every creation.

Warm regards,
Iliana.