The profession of a milliner has been popular and in demand since ancient times. If the artisan was truly talented, there was literally no shortage of clients. After all, everyone wanted a beautiful piece, custom-made especially for them by a skilled craftsman.
Edinburghka will tell you more.
Originally, milliners primarily served members of high society because these were the people who closely followed fashion trends and wanted to quickly incorporate new styles into their wardrobes. Moreover, the services of a professional milliner have always been a luxury.
John Boyd entered history as a talented and highly respected milliner, creating hats for Princess Diana and Princess Anne.
His creations were known for their exceptional beauty and sophistication, which led to the fame of his hats spreading almost all around the globe. Naturally, this had a very positive impact on John’s career. He had an endless stream of clients. Women commissioned hats from the master not only for special occasions but also for everyday wear.
The story of Boyd definitely deserves attention from readers, especially those interested in fashion and its historical development.
Boyd’s biography may also be of significant interest to historians, as he collaborated with prominent figures who played key roles in major historical events. So make yourself comfortable and immerse yourself in the world of fashion, beauty, hats, and true princesses.
Early Years
John was born in Edinburgh in the distant year of 1925. He diligently studied millinery, but his education was interrupted in 1943 by World War II when he was called up for military service.
Boyd served for three years and was demobilized in 1946.
Immediately afterward, he set about creating his first workshop, which was located in a London basement.
Boyd soon began collaborating with the fashion designer Clive Duncan, who was well-known for his royal connections. This brought John many orders, and he created hats that appeared at Duncan’s first London fashion show in 1947.
Growth
In the 1950s, John’s clientele continued to expand, allowing him to open his own shop. Thanks to Duncan, Boyd gained access to royal circles, eventually leading him to Diana, Princess of Wales.
A Milestone Year
1967 was truly significant for John, as that year he created a hat for Princess Anne, who was only seventeen at the time.
The princess and the public liked the piece so much that Boyd continued his collaboration with Anne. As a result, the princess acquired a large collection of unique hats, including her famous lemon-coloured bowler hat and a distinctive black Stetson.
His Most Famous Client
By this time, John’s creations were gradually becoming world-famous. However, the milliner’s popularity skyrocketed when he began creating hats for Princess Diana.
The pink triangle-shaped hat he created for Diana became so popular that it was copied worldwide.
Thanks to Boyd, the Princess of Wales acquired many beautiful and stylish hats. This, in turn, attracted numerous new clients from high society, including Princess Michael of Kent, Lady Soames, Baroness Thatcher, and Viscountess Daventry.
An Important Event
1985 marked another key milestone in John’s career, as he created hats specifically for the Pirelli calendar. For this photoshoot, the finest British designers provided clothing and accessories.
Afterward, the entire collection—including Boyd’s hats—was sold at a charity auction.
Photos: independent.co.uk, amp.smh.com.au