Just had to revive this thread to post this:
Milliner aims to get ahead in 'Oscar' hat competition Aug 3 2006
By Deborah James Daily Post Staff
ADORNED with freshwater pearls, crystals and handmade lace, Petra McNulty's flambot hats wouldn't look out of place at Ascot - or in a scene from the 1980s film Mad Max.
Less than two years ago the former architect from Aintree was in a classroom making her first hat after she signed up for the course as a hobby.
Yesterday, Ms McNulty, 41, learned she has made the final of what is widely regarded as the Oscars of the millinery world, the UK Hat Designer of the Year.
She is one of five shortlisted for the 2006 accolade, which will be presented by Dior designer Stephen Jones at the Olympia exhibition hall in London.
cont. here:
http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0...name_page.html